2 Sequels for Rurouni Kenshin, to feature Shishio as the Villain [UPDATED 7-3-13]

Several months ago, we reported that developments for the live-action Rurouni Kenshin sequel has begun. Now, it is confirmed that two sequels are indeed being prepped for what is intended to be a Rurouni Kenshin trilogy. And the sequels will be featuring the Great Kyoto Fire and Legend’s End story arcs which follow Kenshin facing off against the forces of the evil Shishio Makoto.

Update: Tatsuya Fujiwara, who portrayed Light Yagami in "Death Note" and Shuya Nanahara in "Battle Royale" has been cast as the diabolical assassin Shishio Makoto in the sequel. Keishi Ōtomo who directed the first movie, will be directing both sequels as well. In addition, both sequels now have a title: "Rurouni Kenshin: The Great Kyoto Fire Arc" and "Rurouni Kenshin: The End of a Legend Arc." (updated 7-3-2013) [read the full article after the jump]

The first movie is set to come out in Japan next summer. No announcements have been made about the release dates in other countries, and here in the Philippines.

With an announcement (made in the Japanese magazine "Jump Square") like this, perhaps we can now expect that these two sequels would probably feature a continuing, connecting, 2-part story. The Shishio story arc is widely considered the best story arc of the series, and Shishio being considered as one of the best villains ever made in Manga and Anime. Personally, I do think that this storyline deserves two full movies, I just hope that the sequels will be as good as the first one.