Pretty much this. I mean, a big part of what I liked about the show was the sheer intricacy and convoluted-ness of everything that was going on. Stuff like the episode with the agent on the train, or the giving up the book to "prove" he wasn't Kira, while still leaving open a way to get it back. There's just a lot of complexity you can get across in a show where you're less time-limited, so it's hard for me not to worry a little bit that the move will reduce the property to "one more excuse for an action movie."
I don't think it'll be able to compare to the level of detail in the anime since it appears to be a movie but I'm still hoping for a good DN inspired movie flick.
Since this is on Netflix, it gives me hope this will be good. No corporate interference. Netflix just gives money and lets you do what ever you want. I'm surprised no one has commented here about the "whitewashing" I'm actually excited that L is black, lol.
Just watched Death Note. I don't like anime, but I loved the show. I think the episodic structure is REALLY important. I worry that a movie won't work.
Adam Wingard's credits in case you're a little hesitant to watch any of his work, thoughts? Blair Witch (2016) The Guest (2014) You're Next (2011) V/H/S (2012)
This gives me a little more hope. The Guest was great and I've heard good things about You're Next. Mulligan on Blair Witch.