i think this is a very entertaining series, especially the live action version. it got to me more than the anime, maybe cause it's a bit more serious. i hope more people give this show a try...
sharei've only actually watched the live action series and i loved it, i'm in the middle of the anime right now, although its really funny, it just doesn't get to you like the live action series, as you actually feel for the characters whereas with anime its harder to relate to them and what not
shareI've watched both.
Considering that I do not watch dramas much, I find the "live action series" to be pretty good. That said, I miss some characters from the anime, most notably Kanzaki (they did a good and somewhat logical job merging her with Kikuchi though). Overall, I also prefer the presence of slapstick humor in the anime, which simply cannot be done in the live action series (thats probably why I usually watch anime series over series with actors).
i first read the manga (i ahve the kodansha bilingual volumes, not the tokyopop release), then watched the anime when teh series was aired here... overall, from then on, i already loved GTO, such a funny and inspiring story. one of the best series in my opinion... prolly my fave anime (or at least in my top 5)
i only recently seen the Live Action series, after watching the Live Drama (the whole 12 episodes), i was converted... now, i prefer the Live Action more than the Anime, and slightly over the Manga... i really dunno why,prolly becuz its easier to relate with it, plus, it more, realistic (well obviously)... im currently looking for a DVD or even a VCD of the Live Action Drama Special episode and the Live Action Movie... hopefully some some could point it out to me :)
So far I've seen the Anime and Live Action (including the special and the movie) and they both have their pluses and minuses.
The live action was amusing and had a fairly well put together story line that really pulled you in, but at times it felt like an odd after school special that vaguely reminded me of the show "21 Jump Street" for some reason. Also I liked Tekashi Sorimachi's attitude as Onizuka, but at times I felt that he over acted a bit with his expressions which took away some of the sincerity of the Onizuka character and ultimately made him less "real" in my opinion.
As for the anime, I also found this enjoyable although a bit too long, as the middle got to be a bit boring with basically the same story arc of the kids trying to get him fired, repeating constantly. Yet the character of Onizuka, although much more animated (obviously) with his actions and whatnot, I found to be a much more believable character as you could better see a method to his madness and how he perceives things.
Either way, both where quite entertaining and I recommend anyone that hasn't seen them to check them out. And if possible in your area, try to get legit copies and support the companies that made them.
~Seph
I guess I am not alone when I say the live-action series was better than the anime series. Just to see Onizuka portrayed realistically and with heart sends it way beyond the anime. The anime had its moments, but never engaged me as well as the drama.
Of course, I still prefer the manga over both. There are some things in it that just can't be portrayed through film.