Press conference of "God Hand Teru" & change to theme song

The production press conference of "God Hand Teru" was held in Kawasaki City on 7 April. Before the press conference began, the producer, Tooda Kouichi announced that the original theme song of this drama by rock band ONE OK ROCK will be replaced. This was because of the fact that the guitarist for this band, "Onizawa Alexander Reimon was arrested for groping a woman and the production crew thought that it was inappropriate to use the band's song for the drama. As such, there will be a last minute change to the theme song which is yet undecided.

Preview of "Kon-katsu!" (Married Life) - Spring 2009

Title: Kon-katsu!
Official website: here
O.A. Start Date: 20 April 2009
Showing via: FujiTV
Timeslot: Mondays, 9pm




Cast:

Amemiya Kuniyuki - Nakai Masahiro
Tobita Haruno - Ueno Aya
Fukazawa Shigeru - Sato Ryuuta
Murase Yuko - Shaku Yumiko
Nihei Takumi - Tanihara Shosuke
Amemiya Kuniyasu - Ueda Tatsuya
Ito Masaru - Kitamura Yukiya
Amemiya Kunio - Kohinata Fumio
Takakura Makoto - Ryou
Mizoguchi Shizuko - Fubuki Jun
Sakurada Shuugoro - Hashizume Isao

Press conference of "BOSS"

The production press conference of "BOSS" was held on 7 April where cast members Amami Yuki, Takenouchi Yutaka, Tamayama Tetsuji, Mizobata Junpei, Toda Erika, Kichise Michiko, Kendo Kobayashi and Nukumizu Yoichi made appearances. Amami plays the chief of the "Police Force 1st Section Special Crimes Bureau" which is known for its assemble of so-called "extraordinary" police detectives and was set up to deal with special crimes. However, they are not really expected to do anything magnificent and the place is more like a dumping ground for unwanted personnel from other units. Nonetheless, contrary to expectations, the team manages to solve puzzling cases as the drama develops.

Tamayama remarked that Amami is behaving more like a mother rather than the boss on the set while Mizobata said that Amami was the most "manly" among the cast members. This made Amami embarrassed and said that this would be really frightening for her to be more manly than the guys.

Takenouchi revealed that throughout his career, he has played a police detective for the most number of times. As such, he has taken care not to frown too much during his scenes.

The first episode of BOSS will be shown on 16 April and extended by 15 minutes.

Kimura Takuya in new spring 2009 drama, "MR.BRAIN"

Kimura Takuya will be starring in the new TBS drama, "MR.BRAIN" for the upcoming spring 2009 season. This drama will be shown from 23 May onwards at 7.56pm on Saturdays. Kimura plays an expert in neurology who works in the police force's science research institute and helps to solve difficult cases with his knowledge. This will be the first time that Kimura is playing a neurologist.

In the drama, Kimura's character attains an extraordinary talent in investigative thinking and imagination after he suffers a head injury. Coupled with the fact that he is always curious about things and is the type to be fully absorbed in his interests, he is regarded as a weirdo by the people around him. According to Kimura, this may be the weirdest role he has taken so far.

This drama also marks the first time that Kimura is appearing in a time slot other than FujiTV's Gekku and TBS's Sunday 9pm slots. He hopes that with this new time slot, he will be able to attract attention from all age groups.

Source: Nikkansports

Winter 2009 Drama Ratings Ranking

The Winter 2009 drama season has finally ended and here is the report on the ratings ranking as well as some input on the dramas which I've seen. To date, I've only finished Zenigeba, Triangle and Love Shuffle while I'm still in the midst of Kiina and Voice. And coincidentally, these two dramas which I've yet to finish are in the Top 2 for this season. The ratings for this season are pretty horrendous, so as to speak. The difference separating Kiina and Voice is a mere 0.01% and all Top 3 dramas failed to cross the 15% mark. One-third of the dramas went below the 10% mark. I would have thought that when the weather is cold, more people would stay at home to watch TV. Anyway, these ratings do not take into account people who actually record these dramas and watch at their own leisure time. Recently, there is talk that Video Research has developed a technology to capture figures of the number of people recording the shows so this may lend a bit more credibility to the ranking as well as reflect the true tastes of the viewers. Oh, I almost forgot that I haven't finished Uta no Oniisan too...

First up, we have Kiina from NTV which scored an average of 14.57%. I'm only 3 episodes into this drama. It's not that I don't like this drama but rather the episodic storyline doesn't give me any motivation to continue watching. I will finish up this drama soon though, maybe side by side with Voice. Frankly speaking, these two dramas are very similar to each other. Both are suspense stories which focus on investigative work BUT the approach is different. Kiina may look like a supernatural story on the surface but there are lots of theories and logic behind each phenomenon presented. As such, I thought the story wasn't as far-fetched as I expected. Nonetheless, it can be a bit mind-boggling to hear all those big words so I'll do a more detailed review on this once I finish.

Next up is Voice from FujiTV which scored a mere 0.01% lesser than Kiina. I've watched 5 episodes of this and I've toyed with the thought of dropping this. I must admit that I kept comparing this drama with Kiina and found that I liked the latter more. More on that when I complete the remaining episodes. Again, the main reason stopping me from watching this faithfully every week is the episodic nature. If the story doesn't develop over the course of the season, it's hard to get the viewers to continue watching the same format over and over again.

Third on the ranking in Mei-chan no Shitsuji which seems to be a big hit among the younger audience. I did not watch this drama so I can't comment much on this. From the looks of it, this seems to be a comedy featuring lots of ikemen. Another version of HanaKimi?

And here's the rest of the ranking plus a few comments I have...

4) Triangle - 12.36% (I was fuming mad when I got to the last episode. More on this later. It made the same fatal mistake as Koori no Sekai. And both dramas are from the same TV station. They simply didn't learn their lesson.)

5) Hisatsu Shigotonin 2009 - 12.33% (Didn't watch this)

6) Uta no Oniisan - 10.76% (Still in the midst of this)

7) Arifureta Kiseki - 10.56% (Didn't watch this)

8) Tokumei Kakaricho Tadano Jin - 10.32% (Didn't watch this)

9) RESCUE - 10.00% (Didn't watch this)

10) Zenigeba - 9.94% (Superb! Matsuyama Kenichi puts up another brilliant performance! Mimura also surprised me in a good way. Shiina Kippei was magnificent too. The story, though short, managed to condense the developments nicely and didn't have too much excess. Detailed review coming up!)

11) Love Shuffle - 8.82% (This is something which you either love it or not. Nojima Shinji's style of comedy may be a bit lame at times e.g. the panda joke but I loved the twists and humour. Review coming soon!)

12) Akai Ito - 8.52% (Didn't watch this)

13) Honjitsu mo Hare Ijou Nashi - 8.30% (Didn't watch this)

14) Kami no Shizuku - 6.20% (Enough said about this)

15) RESET - 5.60% (Didn't watch this)

Hang on for more updates about the new Spring 2009 season!

The 59th Television Drama Academy Awards (Autumn 2008)

Best Drama - Ryusei no Kizuna (TBS)

Best Leading Actor - Ninomiya Kazunari (Ryusei no Kizuna)

Best Leading Actress - Miyazaki Aoi (Atsuhime)

Best Supporting Actor - Ogata Ken (Kaze no Garden)

Best Supporting Actress - Toda Erika (Ryusei no Kizuna)

Best Director - Kaneko Fuminori & Ishii Yasuharu (Ryusei no Kizuna)

Best Scriptwriter - Kudo Kankuro (Ryusei no Kizuna)

Best Drama Theme Song - Beautiful Days by Arashi (Ryusei no Kizuna)

The Television Special Award - Ogata Ken

Mizushima Hiro & ayaka's marriage announcement press conference report

Mizushima Hiro and ayaka held their marriage announcement press conference on 3 April at the headquarters of TBS after news of their impending marriage was made known in Sponichi's report on the same morning. However, the couple revealed that they had already registered their marriage on 22 February and were thinking of how to make this announcement. In fact, they had just reported to their agency on 1 April that they registered their marriage. As a result of this sudden revelation by the papers, the couple decided to hold this sudden press conference to set things straight and explain why they got married in just 6 months afte after they started dating.

Mizushima revealed that ayaka has been battling Graves' disease (Basedow-Krankheit in German) the year after she made her debut. In order to control the condition, ayaka has been taking medicine but her condition fluctuates from time to time. On days when she's not feeling well, she becomes breathless and experiences palpitations. In fact, on this very day (3 April), this also happens to be a day when her condition is not that good. In order to support her through the difficult period of going through treatment, Mizushima decided to propose to ayaka in autumn last year.

Ayaka mentioned that Mizushima has been a pillar of support for her all this while and she hopes to concentrate on treatment after marriage. When she fully recovers from this illness, she wants to support him as a dutiful wife. In view of the treatment procedure, ayaka has cancelled all work engagements this year and will take an indefinite period of rest.

When reflecting on the proposal, ayaka said that Mizushima simply said "please marry me" and her mind was a total blank when she heard it. ayaka also flashed her wedding ring which Mizushima gave her at the end of last year during the press conference. Mizushima revealed that he gave it to her at his house just before she made her appearance on the Kouhaku last New Year's Eve. This was to give ayaka more assurance before they did the necessary paperwork.

Mizushima also said that ayaka was the first woman who made him feel that marriage is the extension of courtship. As such, he didn't want to let go of her in case he regrets it for the rest of his life. ayaka also replied shyly that he also means the same to her.

Mizushima mentioned that ayaka is not pregnant and looks forward to making a fresh start with her being by his side.

Source: Yahoo Japan / Oricon

For those who wish to know more about Graves' disease, please go here.

Theme song of "Majo Saiban" to be sung by Fukuyama Masaharu

Fukuyama Masaharu will be singing the theme song, "Keshin" (Incarnation) for the spring 2009 drama, "Majo Saiban" which begins on 25 April via FujiTV. This is the first drama theme song which Fukuyama is singing in 4 years (the previous song was Slow Dance's theme song "Tokyo in 2005) and this new song is a rock number written by him based on the image of an evil woman potrayed in the drama. The release date for this song is still unconfirmed as yet.

Press conference of "Smile"

The production press conference for "Smile" was held at Yokohama's Aoyama Studio on 2nd April where cast members including Matsumoto Jun, Aragaki Yui and Nakai Kiichi made their appearances. Matsumoto plays a guy who has a Filipino father and Japanese mother. As such, he cut his hair by about 10cm and deliberately went for tanning so that he will look more like his role. As for Aragaki Yui, she plays a girl who is unable to speak due to an incident in the past. Nakai Kiichi plays a lawyer who appears carefree but is actually haunted by his past.

Press conference of "Aishiteru ~ Kaiyou ~"

The production press conference for spring drama, "Aishiteru ~ Kaiyou ~" was held on 2 April where cast members such as Inamori Izumi, Kawashima Umika, Itaya Yuka, Yamamoto Taro and Sano Shiro made appearances. The story of this story is based on a comic published in female manga magazine "BE.LOVE". Inamori plays the mother of a 10-year-old boy who murders a 7-year-old boy. Itaya plays the victim's mother. The theme song of this drama is "Utsushi e" by Aragaki Yui.

Mizushima Hiro and ayaka to get married this month!

Popular actor Mizushima Hiro and singer-songwriter ayaka will be getting married just 8 months after they started dating. Although both of them are working in different fields, they belong to the same agency and are acquainted with each other. After a joint magazine interview in June last year, the couple started dating in August. They will be registering their marriage on 13 April which is Mizushima's 25th birthday. As for the wedding itself, there are no concrete plans as yet.

Source: Sponichi

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is such a big surprise! Well, there was talk of them being an item last year but I think they didn't admit that they were dating. So this comes as a shock to me, but in a good way. Nowadays, it is OK for idols to get married. Besides, the two of them have rather positive images (no scandals or anything) so the marriage can prove to be a plus for their careers. I wonder how Mizushima fans are taking it though...

ご結婚おめでとうございます！末永く、お幸せに。

Top 10 handsome guys of interest in Winter 09 (Ori*Star)

1) Mizushima Hiro - 260 votes

2) Sato Takeru - 139

3) Miura Haruma - 89

4) Eita - 54

5) Oguri Shun - 52

6) Mizobata Junpei - 50

7) Matsuyama Kenichi - 49

8) Narimiya Hiroki - 47

9) Matsuda Shota - 40

10) Ichihara Hayato - 39

Top 10 ideal superiors ranking (Oricon)

Top 10 ideal male superiors

1) Ichiro

2) Shimada Shinsuke

3) Sekine Tsutomu

4) Tamori

5) Tadokoro George

6) President Obama

7) Yamaguchi Tomomitsu

8) Tsutsumi Shinichi

9) Furuta Atsuya

10) Governor Hashimoto Toru (Osaka)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Top 10 ideal female superiors

1) Maya Miki

2) Kanno Miho

3) Shinohara Ryoko

4) Hisamoto Masami

5) Esumi Makiko

6) Kuroki Hitomi

7) Ando Yuko

8) Amami Yuki

9) Nakama Yukie

10) Edo Harumi

Preview of God Hand Teru (Spring 2009)

Title: God Hand Teru
Showing via: TBS
O.A. Start Date: 11 April 2009
Timeslot: 7.56pm
Theme song: Around The World Shounen by ONE OK ROCK
Original manga by: Yamamoto Kazuki
Official website: here

Cast:

Mahigashi Teru - Hiraoka Yuuta
Shinomiya Kozue - Mizukawa Asami
Sakura Ayano - Murakawa Eri
Nishimura Manabu - Araki Hirofumi
Hayashi Naoyuki - Nakabayashi Daiki
Kawase Megumi - Asakura Aki
Sano Reiko - Lin Dan Dan
Nogi Kunihiko - Yagami Ren
Hasegawa Kaori - Okubo Mariko
Takahashi Sayaka - Ayana
Mahigashi Kousuke - Terawaki Yasufumi
Shinomiya Ren - Kaname Jun
Kataoka Mitsugu - Kobayashi Takashi
Kitami Shuuichi - Bessho Tetsuya
Yasuda Junji - Watabe Atsuro

Preview of Kurobe no Taiyo

Title: Kurobe no Taiyo
Official website: here
O.A. Dates: 21st and 22nd Mar 09
Timeslot: 9pm
Cast members: Katori Shingo, Katsuji Ryo, Hino Shohei, Kunimura Hayato, Ayase Haruka, Kobayashi Kaoru, Nakamura Atsuo, Hiraizumi Sei, Ono Takehiko, Ukaji Takeshi, Terawaki Yasufumi, Fubuki Jun, Yanagiba Toshiro, Yajima Kenichi, Tsugawa Masahiko, Yusuke Santa Maria, Ibu Masato, Suenaga Haruka, Shida Mirai, Izumi Pinko, Fukada Kyoko, Asano Yuuko, Furuya Kazuyuki, Motokariya Yuika, Mikami Hiroshi (narration)

Top 10 movies ranking (29 March 2009)

1) Yatterman

2) Doraemon Shin Nobita no Uchuu Kaitakushi

3) Drop

4) Marley & Me

5) Valkryie

6) Aibo Series Kanshiki Yonezawa Mamoru no Jikenbo

7) Puri Kyua All Stars DX

8) Madagascar 2

9) Watchmen

10) Okuribito

Preview of Majo Saiban 魔女裁判 (The Witch Trial)

Title: Majo Saiban
Official website: here
Showing on: FujiTV
O.A. Start Date: 25 April 2009
Timeslot: Saturdays, 11.10pm
Cast List: Ikuta Toma, Kato Ai, Higa Manami & Ishida Yuriko (more to be announced at a later date)

Top 10 female artistes with the most beautiful lips (Oricon)

1) Inoue Waka

2) Ueto Aya

3) Ishihara Satomi

4) Ebihara Yuri

5) Ito Misaki

6) Angelina Jolie

7) Kitagawa Keiko

8) Igawa Haruka

9) Ayase Haruka

10) Hirosue Ryoko / Horikita Maki

Top 10 most memorable Sakura songs

1) Sakura - Kobukuro

2) Sakura - Moriyama Naotaro

3) Sakura - Ketsumeishi

4) Sakura - Ikimonogakari

5) Sakurazaka - Fukuyama Masaharu

6) Sakura no toki - aiko

7) Sakura - Kawaguchi Kyogo

8) Sakura Iro Mau Koro - Nakashima Mika

9) Sakura Iro - Angela Aki

10) Sakura Sake - Arashi

Review of Detroit Metal City

Title: Detroit Metal City
Official website: here
Death Records website: here
Original manga by: Wakasugi Kiminori
Movie roadshow date: 23 Aug 2008
Total run time: 104 minutes
Theme songs: 1) SATSUGAI by Detroit Metal City / 2) Amai Koibito by Negishi Souichi - Kaji Hideki
Total box office takings: 2.34 billion yen

Cast:

Negishi Souichi / Johannes Krauser II (Matsuyama Kenichi)
Vocals for Johannes Krauser II (Kanmuri Tetsuya)
Aikawa Yuri (Kato Rosa)
Nishida Terumichi / Camus (Akiyama Ryuuji)
Wada Masayuki / Alexander Jagi (Hosoda Yoshihiko)
Asato Hidetaka (Suzuki Kazuma)
Saji Hideki (Takahashi Issei)
Negishi Keiko (Miyazaki Yoshiko)
Negishi Toshihiko (Kato Ryo)
Jack Il Dark (Gene Simmons)
Boss of Death Records (Matsuyuki Yasuko)

Review:

This has turned out to be much more entertaining that I thought. I wouldn't classify this as a classic but this is definitely not something you will forget once you step out of the cinema.

Negishi Souichi is an ordinary guy who leaves his hometown to come to Tokyo for his university studies. He aspires to make it as a popular singer but ends up being the vocalist of a hard metal rock band instead. Although this band enjoys great success, Negishi cannot reconcile the difference between reality and ideals and even has to hide his true identity from Yuri, his love from university. Lots of hillarious happenings occur as Negishi tries to hide his identity. Negishi starts to change his thinking slowly through the interaction with the people around him.

Matsuyama Kenichi does it again by going against stereotypes. Every time he appears, you can be sure of something new. Going by how much makeup he puts on when he appears as Krauser, you would never have guessed that Matsuyama is the one playing this role. He manages to manipulate the roles with such distinct differences that the characters of Negishi and Krauser stand out perfectly. Negishi seems very insecure and unsure of what he should do while Krauser oozes so much charisma and charm on stage. I am very impressed with his performance and I think he has the potential to go very far as long as he continues to challenge himself.

One thing which I thought was a pity would be the fact that we do not get to hear Matsuyama sing in this movie. In fact, the vocals of Krauser are from another singer by the name of Kanmuri Tetsuya. As for his voice when he sings Negishi's songs, I think that is voiced by Kaji Hideki. Now, was Matsuyama's voice featured during the climax scene when he was chanting that F-song? I would really like to find out about that. ^__^

Another big highlight in the cast is Matsuyuki Yasuko. I felt the impact very strongly because I had just seen her in Yougisha X no Kenshin. The gap was simply...shocking. In Yougisha, she was very gentle but in DMC, Matsuyuki goes through a major transformation. The tight mini-skirt, rough mannerisms, the language peppered with vulagarities all brought out the essence of her role as the boss of Death Records. Apparently, Matsuyuki was chosen to take on this role as she was viewed as someone who could not be imagined to be able to potray this character but she did brilliantly, contrary to expectations.

Although the language can be a bit vulgar at times, I think the music featured in this movie is quite interesting after all. I like that song, "恨みはらさでおくべきか " (Urami harasa de okubeki ka - Should I take revenge for my grievances) a lot because that is really funny. This song was written by Negishi after he got jealous of Asato trying to woo his goddess, Yuri and became a smash hit unwittingly. "SATSUGAI" sounds good too and would be a great song for concerts. Although I think that the lyrics may be controversial and border on the side of offensive, I think the music pieces were done pretty well and were not as noisy as I thought.

And my ratings for this movie...
Story: 8 out of 10 (Predictable storyline but it's not boring at all)
Acting: 9 out of 10 (Matsuyama Kenichi and Matsuyuki Yasuko rocks!)
Theme song: 8 out of 10 (Although a tad noisy at times, the music is pretty good)
Visual effects / Scenery: 7 out of 10 (Scenery from Oita as well as the great transformation of Negishi to Krauser through that makeup)
Teamwork / Chemistry: 7 out of 10 (Although I think that Matsuyama and Kato Rosa were lacking in chemistry, I think he did pretty well with Matsuyuki.)

Total: 39 out of 50

Strawberry*Cream*Soda*Pop by Tommy february6 (Theme song of "Ketsuekigata Betsu Onna ga Suru Houhou")

Title: Strawberry*Cream*Soda*Pop
Artiste: Tommy february6
Lyrics: Tommy february6
Melody: MALIBU CONVERTIBLE
Total run time: 4 minutes 49 seconds

Darling, Will you always stay by my side?
Like Strawberry cream soda pop
The sparkling love in a parfait glass
That no one can touch my fantasy

mou nankai mo ochita tameiki
nanjikan mo koushite
kagami no mae ni iru no ni
doresu mo Shoes mo mada kimaranai
You gave me a very happy feeling
koisuru My heart's beating

demo moshikashite ima wa kataomoi kamo
demo me no mae anata ga iru kara

Darling tsukamete kono omoi ga kienu you ni
ukarete hajikeru tokimeki ga suki nano

taikutsu na gogo akubi wo denai
tsumi ageta hon dakega kokoro wo tsure dashite kureta

That Winter day. Way to home
ano hi anata ni deaette nani mo kamo ga
kira kira shite mieta

taisetsu na mono te ni ireru koto de
nani ka wo ushinau kowasa wo shiru kedo

Darling soba ni ite yuru sareru jikan no kagiri
suki yo koishiteru nakete shimau kurai

nozonde bakari no dame na watashi wo yurusu nara
ima sugu aitai! sono yume wo kanaete

There is no other sound
I can hear only your voice Kiss me Baby
futari no sekai kirameku onfu no mirufiiyu
You're my special! anata shika mienai

tatoeba kanashimi ni kureru yoru wo sugosu nara
soba ni iru It's OK anata ga iru kagiri

fukuranda kumo ga watagashi no you ni somaru koro
oka no ki no shita eien wo chikatte So...

Darling, Will you always stay by my side?
Like Strawberry cream soda pop
The sparkling love in a parfait glass
That no one can touch "my fantasy"

Romaji lyrics of "Setsuna" by GReeeeN (Theme song of "Voice")

Title: Setsuna
Artiste: GReeeeN
Lyrics: GReeeeN
Melody: GReeeeN
Total run time: 4 minutes 50 seconds

kitto bokura wa kagayaki takute
ikiru imi wo sagashiteta
makenai you ni karenai you ni
tsuyoku negai ikiteku

tatoeba bokura ga
namida wo nagasu you na hi ni mo
itsumo to onaji you ni
hi wa nobori
soshite shizunde iku

kitto sekaijuu de
jibun hitori okizari da to omotta
dakedo sekaijuu wa kyou wa mawaru
hontou chippoke datta

kake nuketa hibi nagashita namida
ikiru imi wo sagashiteta
kitto dare mo ga tarinai nani ka wo
negai ima wo ikiterun da
unmei da toka jinsei da toka
you wa saigo no ichibyou ni
waratte takute tada sore dake de
subete kotae wa jibun no naka

tooku ni kasuka ni
mieru risou no jibun ga mata
[koukai nai you ni ikiteru?] tte hohoemi
sukoshi naita

kitto sekaijuu no
jibun igai subete shiawase to omotta
dakedo sekaijuu wa asuta mo mawaru
donna namida mo iyashite

kake nuketa hibi kasaneta itami
ikiru imi wo sagashiteta
kitto dare mo ga kagayaku ashita wo negai
ima wo ikiterun da
chikara tarizu ni yowai jibun ga
yoru no yami ni furueteta
dare shi mo keshite tsuyoku nai kedo
subete kakaete jibun nan da

itami wo shiru sono hitomi ni
utsuru sekai, kanashimi azari
tada nagashita namida afure dashita
naze ka michi tarinain da ima sara
[mune hareru jibun] ni deaeta?
[uso de katameta jibun] eranda?
tadashisa wa itsumo jibun no naka
yorokobi kanashimi tsunagaru ashita

kanashii toki wa kareru made naki
ureshii toki wa hara kakaete warai
setsunai toki wa kaze wo kanjite
takaku toberu hi wo mateba ii

kitto bokura wa kagayaki takute
ikiru imi wo sagashiteta
makenai you ni karenai you ni
tsuyoku negai ikiteku

itsuka aeru sono hi made
risou no jibun ni
itsuka tadori tsuku
sono hi made jibun shinjite

Top 10 love songs sung by male singers (Oricon)

1) Lovers Again by EXILE

2) Ai Uta by GReeeeN

3) Junrenka by Shounan no Kaze

4) One Love by Arashi

5) Chiisana Koi no Uta by MONGOL800

6) I LOVE YOU by Ozaki Yutaka

7) Love so sweet by Arashi

8) Itoshii Hito e by ET-KING

9) Koi by Matsuyama Chiharu

10) Ai no Katamari by KinKi Kids

Top 10 movies ranking (22 March 2009)

1) Yatterman

2) Valkryie

3) Doraemon Shin Nobita no Uchuu Kaitakushi

4) Drop

5) Puri Kyua All Stars DX Minna tomodachi Kiseki no Zenin Daishuugo

6) Madagascar 2

7) Okuribito

8) DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION

9) Bedtime Story

10) General Rouge no Kaisen

Spring 2009 - Majo Saiban (The Trial of an Evil Woman)

Ikuta Toma will be the leading man for the first time in FujiTV's spring 2009 offering, Majo Saiban (The Trial of an Evil Woman) which begins on 25 April 09, Saturdays 11.10pm. This is the first time that he is taking on the lead role alone.

As Japan will introduce the jury system in May this year, Majo Saiban takes a look at what happens during the trial of a woman accused of murder. Ikuta plays a young part-time worker who has been disinterested in current affairs all along. One day, he receives notification that he is selected to be a member of the jury for a criminal case. As part of the preparation for this role, Ikuta went to sit in on some court sessions to get a feel of how court proceedings are like. As this is a serious theme and has severe social repurcussions, he feels that it will be a challenge to relay the message that the jury system will affect everyone, regardless of whether you are selected to be part of the jury.

The case featured in this drama is a murder by a woman who's been labeled as evil and supposedly murdered for the sake of landing her hands on a huge inheritance. This will be played by Ishida Yuriko who has always been projecting a sweet and gentle image throughout her career. During the trial, an unknown organization gets to work so as to influence the jury to deliver a favourable verdict.

Kato Ai will play a housewife for the first time in this drama and her character is also selected to be part of the jury. However, her peaceful life is shattered as death threats are sent to her and her family. Higa Manami will play Ikuta's girlfriend who is also a news reporter.

Source: Sanspo

Gekkan TVnavi's Drama of the Year Award

Best Drama of the Year 2008: Maou (Summer 2008)

Best Leading Actor: Ohno Satoshi (Maou)

Best Leading Actress: Miyazaki Aoi (Atsuhime)

Best Supporting Actor: Eita (Last Friends)

Best Supporting Actress: Ueno Juri (Last Friends)

Best Newcomer: Yamada Ryousuke (Scrap Teacher) & Higa Manami (Code Blue)

Source: Sanspo

Top 5 female artistes around 40 who has the best complexion

Morinaga Dairy Products conducted a survey with Esthetic Clinic TBC in collaboration with the launch of their new product, "TBC Series". This survey interviewed 500 respondents in their teens to 30s so as to find out who they think has the best complexion despite being around the age of 40 years old. The top 5 results as follows:

1) Maya Miki (44)

2) Fujiwara Norika (37)

3) Nagasaku Hiromi (37)

4) Esumi Makiko (41)

5) Matsushita Yuki (41)

*Figures in brackets indicate their ages.

Top 10 songs to listen to when you fall out of love (Oricon)

1) M by Princess Princess

2) Over by Mr.Children

3) Mou Koi nante shinai by Makihara Noriyuki

4) Genki wo Dashite by Takeuchi Mariya

5) 366 Nichi by HY

6) Sayonara by Off Course

7) NAO by HY

8) Makenaide by ZARD

9) Saudaji by Porno Grafitti

10) First Love by Utada Hikaru

Romaji lyrics of "Sayonara" by Kariyushi 58 (Theme song for "Zenigeba")

Title: Sayonara
Artiste: Kariyushi 58
Melody and lyrics by: Maekawa Shingo
Date of release: 4 February 2009
Total run-time: 4 minutes 16 seconds

sayonara tada tada tada tada itoshiki hibi yo
zutto wasurenai darou boku wa kimi wo

suri hetta kutsuzoko yugure no machi
aogi mita sora akane iro
hi ni yaketa nakama no kao
yomigaeru

nani ka ga okisou na kizashi mo naku
dare ka ni kawareru hazu mo naku
atari mae no you ni toori sugita mainichi


hanare banare ni naru koto wa
fushizen na koto janai
atama de wakatte temo
kokoro ga kimi wo omotte shimau yo

sayonara tada tada tada tada itoshiki hibi yo
sakura maichiru haru no
namida wa tomedo naku

shuuden magiwa chikatetsu no
hoomu ni hibiku anounsu
okuba de kami shimeru kodoku na yoru

nami wo iwazu fuki nuketa kaze
biru no sukima ni hosoi tsuki
atari mae no you ni kuri kaeshi no mainichi

natsukashii uta ga kikoete kita
omoide ga kake meguru
utsuri yuku kisetsu wo tokudoku to kizamu
tokei no hari wa tomaranai kedo

inochi wa hajimatta toki kara
yukkuri owatte yuku nante shinjinai
boku ga ikiru kyou wa
motto ikita katta dare ka no
ashita kamo shirenai kara

kotoba ni dekinai omoi wa
namida ni katachi wo kaete
koboreru no deshou

sayonara tada tada tada tada itoshiki hibi yo
nidoto modoranu hibi yo [arigatou]
sayonara tada tada tada tada itoshiki hibi yo
zutto wasurenai darou boku wa kimi wo

ushinatta peeji wa dore kurai?
mata yoru ga yatte kite
nokosareta yohaku wa dore kurai?
mata asa wa otozureru

Romaji lyrics of Saiai by KOH+ (Theme song of Yougisha X no Kenshin)

Title: Saiai
Artiste: KOH+
Melody and lyrics by: Fukuyama Masaharu
Date of release: 1 October 2008
Total run time: 5 minutes 26 seconds

yume no you na hito dakara
yume no you ni kieru no desu

sono sadame wo shiri nagara
hikurarete kita kisetsu no peeji

ochite wa tokeru konayuki mitai
tomaranai omoi

aisanakute ii kara
tooku de mimamottete
tsuyogatterun dayo
demo tsunagatte tain dayo
anata ga mada suki dakara

motto nakeba yokatta
motto waraeba yokatta
baka danatte itte yo
ki ni suru natte itte yo
anata ni tada aitakute

hajimete deshita
kore made no hibi
machigatte nai to omoeta koto

hidamari mitai na
sono egao
ikiru michi wo terashite kuremashita

kokoro no ame ni kasa wo kureta no wa
anata hitori datta...

aisenakute ii kara
koko kara mimamotteru
tsuyogatterun dayo
demo tsunagatte tain dayo
anata ga mada suki dakara

onaji tsuki no shita de
onaji namida nagashita
dame nan dayotte
hanaretaku naitte
tada hito koto tada ienakute

itsuka inochi no tabi
owaru sono toki mo
inoru deshou

anata ga akogareta
"anata" de aru koto wo
sono egao wo shiawase wo

aisanakute ii kara
tooku de mimamottete
tsuyogatterun dayo
demo tsunagatte tain dayo
anata ga mada suki dakara

motto nakeba yokatta
motto waraeba yokatta no kana
baka danatte itte yo
ki ni suru natte itte yo
anata ni tada aitakute

anata ni tada aitakute

Top 10 graduation songs among people in their 10s and 20s (Oricon)

1) Sangatsu Kokonoka - Remioromen

2) Okuru Kotoba - Kaientai

3) Sotsugyo Shashin - Matsutoya Yumi

4) Tabidachi no Hi ni

5) Sakura - Moriyama Naotaro

6) my graduation - SPEED

7) Sakura - Kobukuro

8) Sotsugyo - Ozaki Yutaka

9) Michi - EXILE

10) Aogeba Toutoushi

Source: Oricon

Zenigeba Coin Accessory

Title: Zenigeba Coin Accessory
Price: 452 yen
Description: 5-zura coin with Fuutarou's famous line written on the reverse side
Available at: NTV

Top 10 movies ranking (15 March 2009)

1) Yatterman

2) Doraemon Shin Nobita no Uchuu Kaitakushi

3) DRAGON EVOLUTION

4) Madagascar 2

5) Okuribito

6) General Rouge no Kaisen

7) Chou Gekijouban Keroro Gunsou

8) Changeling

9) The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

10) Australia

Zenigeba Mobile Phone Screen Cleaner

Title: Zenigeba Mobile Phone Screen Cleaner
Price: 368 yen
Description: Zura-bill design mobile phone screen cleaner
Available at: NTV

Zenigeba Dollar Bill Design Notepad

Title: Zenigeba Dollar Bill Design Notepad
Price: 473 yen
Description: 10,000-zura bill design with a picture of Fuutarou
Available at: NTV

Zenigeba Clear Folder

Title: Zenigeba Clear Folder
Size: A4
Price: 315 yen
Description: Cover - Fuutarou's image / Reverse - Famous lines from Fuutarou
Available from: NTV

Okuribito's original novel, "Noukanfu Nikki 納棺夫日記"

Title: 納棺夫日記 Noukanfu Nikki
Author: Aoki Shinmon
Price: 490 yen
Total number of pages: 227
ISBN: 4167323028
Published in: July 1996

Zenigeba's original manga

Title: Zenigeba
Author: Akiyama George
Number of volumes: 2
ISBN: 4344410289 / 4344410297
Price: 720 yen / 680 yen (inclusive of tax)

Top 10 ideal daughter ranking (Oricon)

This survey asks respondents if they have a daughter, which female artiste would they bring up their daughter to be like?

1) Becky

2) Miyazaki Aoi

3) Matsushima Nanako

4) Ueto Aya

5) Fujiwara Norika

6) Nakama Yukie

7) Kanno Miho

8) Nagasawa Masami

9) Horikita Maki

10) Aragaki Yui

Ketsuekigata Betsu Onna ga Kekkon Suru Houhou ~ Blood Type AB (Story)

Harukawa Sachie. 22 years old and single. Occupation: Student. Hometown: Nara. Blood Type: AB.

Sachie is a student in the science faculty. Being cool and aloof, many people find it hard to get close to her. However, when she's outside of school, she displays a different side to that by attending a culture school and behaving in contrast to her usual self.

Sachie is conducting experiments in the laboratory alone when the assistant professor Kendahara Jin comes to talk to her again. Kendahara likes Sachie but she always gives him the cold shoulder.

One day, Kendahara asks Sachie to be the tuition teacher for his daughter who's in primary school. That is the first time that Sachie comes to know about Kendahara's private life. She takes on the job for the sake of making some money and finds out that Kendahara's wife died a few years ago due to an accident...

Rating: 12.4%

Top 10 movies ranking (8 March 09)

1) Yatterman

2) Doraemon Shin Nobita no Uchuu Kaitakushi

3) Okuribito

4) General Rouge no Kaisen

5) Chou Gekijouban Keroro Gunsou

6) Changeling

7) The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

8) Australia

9) 20 Seiki Shounen Dainisho Saigo no Kibou

10) Mamma Mia

Ketsuekigata Betsu Onna ga Kekkon Suru Houhou ~ Blood Type O (Story)

Harukawa Sachie. 24 years old and single. Occupation: Freelance sales staff. Hometown: Saitama. Blood Type: O.

Sachie works as a freelance sales staff at an interior accessories shop. Her hometown is in Saitama and she left home to live freely rather than to be independent. As such, she decides to work freelance rather than be a full-time employee and insists on working in the capital. She finally decided on this interior shop located in the posh area of Shirokane.

One day, Sachie meets a man who speaks in Mandarin at her shop and is unsure of how to communicate with him. She tries to speak to him in English but the man doesn't respond. Due to this episode, Sachie is scolded by the man for being an unprofessional sales staff. Actually, this man is Eddie Chan who is the chief producer of a Taiwan furniture brand which has just signed a contract with the shop. Sachie then relates what happened to her friend Mizusawa Reika.

Even though Sachie is scolded by Eddie, she doesn't feel any wrong with it. Reika then tells her off for lacking a sense of urgency and suggests that she should go and learn Mandarin so as to get back at Eddie...

Rating: 13.2%

Ketsuekigata betsu Onna ga Kekkon Suru Houhou ~ Blood Type B (Story)

Harukawa Sachie. 30 years old and single. Occupation: Drama serial scriptwriter. Hometown: Yokohama. Blood Type: B

Sachie is a popular scriptwriter who has been churning out hit dramas one after another. However, her recent works are not doing well in terms of ratings thus she is seen to be in the midst of a slump. Being someone who strongly believes in herself and insists on having her way, Sachie has to contend with taunts from people who think she is past her peak.

One day, a completion party for the drama which Sachie wrote, is held in a restaurant. As Sachie is not happy about her drama's ratings, she drinks a lot during the party and stumbles into the gents. She then meets Hosumi Akihiko, the arts director for the drama. Sachie comes to know that Hosumi used to write hit dramas too. Making use of her drunken state, Sachie insists on heading to Hosumi's house. When she arrives there, Sachie is shocked to see lots of artistic works scattered around. This starts to make her realize that Hosumi is unlike any man she has met so far...

Rating: 9.8%

Review of Yougisha X no Kenshin 容疑者Xの献身 (Suspect X's Devotion)

Title: Yougisha X no Kenshin 容疑者Xの献身
Translated meaning: Suspect X's Devotion
Shown in cinemas from: 4 Oct 2008
Original novel by: Higashino Keigo (3rd installment in the Galileo series)
Official website: here
Theme song: Saiai by KOH+ (Shibasaki Kou & Fukuyama Masaharu)
Insert song: 99 by Fukuyama Masaharu
Total box-office takings: 4.92 billion yen

Cast:

Yukawa Manabu - Fukuyama Masaharu
Utsumi Kaoru - Shibasaki Kou
Kusanagi Junpei - Kitamura Kazuki
Kuribayashi Hiromi - Watanabe Ikkei
Jounouchi Sakurako - Maya Miki
Kudo Kuniaki - Dankan
Togashi Shinji - Nagatsuka Keishi
Hanaoka Misato - Kanazawa Miho
Hanaoka Yasuko - Matsuyuki Yasuko
Ishigami Tetsuya - Tsutsumi Shinichi

Review:

Finally managed to catch this movie last night after a long wait. Well, I can't claim to be a fan of the Galileo drama so it has nothing to do with the existing cast or the continuation of what happens after the drama. Galileo was a fine production but it still doesn't qualify as a classic in my list. It has got more to do with the fact that I like Tsutsumi Shinichi and Matsuyuki Yasuko (I enjoyed their performance especially in Beginner) and was looking forward to seeing them together onscreen again as well as observe if sparks will fly between Tsutsumi and Fukuyama during the genius showdown. As this is a suspense film, I suggest that you may wish to skip this review if you do not wish to read the spoilers.

In this movie, you are already shown the answer to two questions i.e. the identity of the murderer(s) and the accomplice. However, the question that is at stake is how they managed to do it. The murderers have a strong alibi which is foolproof. As such, compared to most suspense stories e.g. the Kindaichi, Furuhata Ninzaburo or even Tantei Gakuen series, the viewer has a comparatively simpler task on hand since they know the identity of the culprit right from the start. And maybe this is why I've read a couple of reviews saying that this story is not as complicated as it seems. True, the suspense factor may be a bit lacking (I knew the answer when Yukawa, Kusanagi and Utsumi were talking about Ishigami's attendance records) but overall, it still posed a certain degree of difficulty. We may not know the simple answer just because of our blind spot and assumptions. By changing our point of view, things become crystal-clear.

One important issue in this movie is why Ishigami went to the extent of sacrificing for Hanaoka. Although Ishigami does have some romantic feelings towards Hanaoka, I am inclined to think that it is not just out of love. I guess it has more to do with the gratitude he has towards Hanaoka and Misato. As we see in the final moments of the movie, Ishigami was actually preparing to hang himself in his apartment when Hanaoka came over with Misato to visit him since they had just moved in during summer. Subsequently, we see how they always greet Ishigami warmly and offer him a new reason to live on. It appears that Ishigami had been neglected for a long time so the newfound attention from Hanaoka and Misato made him realize that there are people who still notice his presence and are prepared to shower him with warmth. Subsequently, I believe that's how Ishigami found himself in love with Hanaoka and started to lament how he looked older than his age. Deep down, Ishigami feels that there is no way he can ever be with Hanaoka. As such, he is prepared to take a step back and protect her in whatever way he can. He doesn't need her to reciprocate his feelings. This can also be seen from the lyrics of "Saiai" which seems to be written from the perspective of Ishigami. Thus, when the opportunity presented itself, he decided to help her cover up the murder. At that point in time, I believe he was already planning to sacrifice himself so that Hanaoka can escape scot-free with Misato. Well, things didn't turn out the way he wanted since Yukawa told Hanaoka about Ishigami's intention and she turned herself in as well. If Yukawa didn't do that, Hanaoka may not turn herself in since she wanted to protect her daughter. No doubt her conscience may be pricking her, she may choose to ignore this for the sake of Misato. That pain that Ishigami felt as he wailed was really excruciating. Although Ishigami is the culprit, I believe most people would feel for him especially in that scene.

Although Fukuyama Masaharu is officially the leading man in this movie, he is outshone by Tsutsumi Shinichi's strong performance as Ishigami. Yukawa obviously has lesser screen time as compared to Ishigami so the latter has more room to develop his role. Tsutsumi went to the extent of cutting his hair and dying streaks of it white, sported a hunchback and dressed in monotone colours just to bring out the feel of Ishigami's gloomy lifestyle and outlook in life. Comparatively, Fukuyama didn't have to spare too much effort to look his part as Yukawa. As such, I'm definitely more impressed with Tsutsumi's performance although I wouldn't say that Fukuyama did badly. It was just that Tsutsumi was able to convey his role more convincingly to me.

However, it was a pleasant surprise that Fukuyama showed a more-human side of Yukawa this time when he was asking Ishigami to tell the truth. The anguish Yukawa felt when Ishigami realized that all his hard work was in nought just reminded me that Yukawa is human after all. The Galileo we've seen so far is more cold and aloof although there were signs that he was hiding his true emotions. It was rare to see such an outburst from Yukawa and thankfully, Fukuyama didn't go overboard with that and I applaud this.

As usual, Matsuyuki Yasuko does well but I'm particularly impressed with how she displays fear e.g. when she killed her ex-husband and when she misunderstood that Ishigami was exhibiting a strong possession streak. Now that calls for real acting skills. It was a pity that Matsuyuki didn't get to enjoy much screentime with Tsutsumi since they were not supposed to have any contact other than at the bento shop. Most of the time, they were talking on the phone.

If you are looking for romantic developments between Utsumi and Yukawa, you will be terribly disappointed. It's more like they became friends especially when Yukawa was telling Utsumi about what he thought Ishigami had done. Frankly speaking, I prefer them to maintain status quo in their relationship rather than them developing into lovers.

On the whole, this movie turned out to be better than I thought. I was a bit disappointed with the Galileo drama at times when some episodes didn't turn out as well as the rest but this story proved to be a good one especially with some powerful acting from the cast. It may not be a very strong suspense story since lots of unknowns were made known at the start. In fact, there was debate on whether the novel qualified as a suspense story at the time it was published due to the obvious clues especially when the novel won a mystery novel award. As such, if you are watching this movie, maybe you should pay more attention to the process (how they covered up the murder and the motive of Ishigami) rather than who did it. Otherwise, you would be disappointed to find that searching for the truth is not as exciting as what you expected.

And my ratings for this movie...
Story: 8.5 out of 10 (Essence lies in the motive of Ishigami's actions and how they covered up the murder)
Acting: 8 out of 10 (For Tsutsumi's Ishigami, Fukuyama showing a human side of Yukawa and Matsuyuki's rendition of fear)
Theme song: 8 out of 10 (Great song from KOH+. When you read the lyrics of this song, it offers a better insight into Ishigami's inner world and how he feels towards Hanaoka.)
Visual effects / Scenery: 6.5 out of 10 (Not much scenery and visual effects. CG is definitely not at play here)
Teamwork / Chemistry: 7 out of 10 (Kudos for that mountain climbing scene when Yukawa pressed Ishigami for answers and he told him that the truth will not benefit anyone. Intense!)

Total: 38 out of 50

Ketsuekigata betsu Onna ga Kekkon suru Houhou ~ Blood Type A (Story)

Harukawa Sachie. 23 years old. Single. Occupation: General Affairs. Hometown: Fukushima. Blood Type: A

Sachie is an OL working in a small-and-medium company's accounting department. She is serious, abides by the rules and an introvert. To her, marriage is the route to a woman's happiness thus she saves money for the sake of using it on her wedding.

Sachie likes Watanabe Makoto from the sales department but cannot even muster the courage to speak to him. She always sees him talking happily to Murakami Natsumi from the sales promotion department and goes to the extent of stopping her work just to listen to what they are talking about. Natsumi is the exact opposite of Sachie with her fashionable appearance and takes the initiative to talk to others. Even though Sachie feels irritated at Natsumi, she can't help admire her at the same time for having what she lacks.

One day, Sachie hears from her superior that Watanabe is going to be transferred to Osaka in two weeks' time. To make things worse, she finds out that Natsumi has declared her intention to make Watanabe her boyfriend before he leaves for Osaka. Sachie then goes to her buddy Mizusawa Reika for advice on how she can transform into a girl who dares to make the first move...

Rating: 13.0%

Top 5 favourite actors and actresses from the Winter 09 drama season (OriStar)

Top 5 favourite actors from the Winter 09 drama season
1) Mizushima Hiro (162 votes)
2) Eita (147 votes)
3) Matsuyama Kenichi (70 votes)
4) Tamaki Hiroshi (66 votes)
5) Ikuta Toma (64 votes)

Top 5 favourite actresses from the Winter 09 drama season
1) Kanno Miho (269 votes)
2) Karina (146 votes)
3) Eikura Nana (127 votes)
4) Ishihara Satomi (81 votes)
5) Hirosue Ryoko (56 votes)

Review of K-20 Kaijin Nijuumenso. Den

Title: K-20 Kaijin Nijuumenso. Den
Official website: here
Original novel by Kimura Sou
Director: Sato Shimako
Produced by: Toho / ROBOT
Total run time: 137 minutes




Cast:
Endo Heikichi - Kaneshiro Takeshi
Hashiba Yoko - Matsu Takako
Akechi Kogoro - Nakamura Tooru
Genji - Kunimura Hayato
Kikuko - Takashima Reiko
Kobayashi Yoshio - Hongo Kanata
Shinsuke - Imai Yuki
Namikoshi - Masuoka Tooru
Mysterious man - Shika Takeshi
Assistant at academic seminar - Kaname Jun

The story is set in 1949 where the fictitious capital of Japan, Teito exists. Due to a peace treaty signed with America and Britain, World War II did not happen. As a result, the world in 1949 is one which differs from real history. 90% of the people in Teito are rich or are aristocrats while the remaining people live in poverty and are not allowed to marry or associate with people not in the same status rank. Japan only started TV broadcasting in 1953 but this is already present in 1949's Teito. In addition, Japan was under German influence prior to WWII so in this movie, since WWII did not happen, the German influence is still evident in 1949. You can see German words on the police cars and other foreign language signs.

Endo Heikichi is an acrobat cum magician in a circus who lives an ordinary life. However, his life is turned upside-down when he accepts a job from a mysterious man to take photos of the engagement ceremony of Akechi Kogoro and Hashiba Yoko. He unwittingly sets off an explosion in the Hashiba building and is mistaken as K-20, a thief who has eluded the police many times. Heikichi manages to escape from custody with the help of his friends led by Genji, the gadget master in their circus and sets out to avenge himself by nabbing the real K-20. He enlists the help of Yoko and Akechi in his mission but is shocked to discover the real identity of K-20 as well as the motive...

The highlight of this movie is of course, the trio of Kaneshiro Takeshi, Matsu Takako and Nakamura Tooru. I like Kaneshiro and Matsu's chemistry. They are a fine couple to look at onscreen and I thought they showed the sparks in Heikichi and Yoko's relationship pretty well.

However, I would have loved to see more of Kaneshiro. Well, not just because of his looks (in fact I don't like it when he has long hair), I simply felt that he didn't have enough airtime to show Heikichi as a complete character. Heikichi said that his only wish is to go back to the circus even if he doesn't manage to clear his name but then the story failed to address the reason behind his insistence e.g. he had been with the circus since he was a child or he had nowhere to go if he leaves the circus. However, he still did not get his wish in the end. That is why I think it's better if they address why he has come to terms about not being able to return to the circus.

He did pretty well in the fight sequences with K-20 especially during the climax scene but I thought it was a bit weird, as if they were all doing gravity-defying moves like those Chinese martial arts movies. That CG of the Hashiba building was great. At least it made me in awe of the scale of that building and its surroundings. Nonetheless, it was still enjoyable to enjoy the action. There wasn't much of the suspense in this story but the identity of K-20 was a bit surprising. Other than that, this feels more like an action flick rather than a suspense thriller to me.

I would have thought that Matsu will be a big accessory in this film but her role turns to be not that ditzy after all. Although Yoko appears as a rich girl who knows nothing about the poverty plaguing the lower-class people, she springs into action once she identifies the issue and is quick to offer help when Heikichi needs it. As such, she is not some brainless girl who only knows how to wait for people to do things for her. And it's been some time since I last saw Matsu in a movie or drama so I believe Matsu fans will definitely want to catch a glimpse of her in this movie.

I've heard some unfavourable reviews about this movie before I went to watch it today but I must say that it is a pretty enjoyable film after all. Don't expect too much from the suspense and pay more attention to the CG, the fighting scenes as well as the visually-attractive couple of Kaneshiro and Matsu. I guess this is to manage your expecations in case you get disappointed at the end.

And my ratings for this movie...
Story: 7 out of 10 (Peppered with lots of humour but a bit lacking in the suspense department. It doesn't need a genius to guess what's going to happen)
Acting: 7 out of 10 (Everyone did OK generally so there wasn't anybody especially worth mentioning)
Theme song: 7 out of 10 (Mostly BGM tracks. There wasn't a theme song for this movie)
Visual effects / Scenery: 7.5 out of 10 (I like the CG, especially in the climax scene at the Hashiba Building)
Teamwork / Chemistry: 7.5 out of 10 (Kaneshiro and Matsu did well. Kaneshiro's partnership with Kunimura Hayato also stood out.)

Total: 36 out of 50

Sakurai Sho to appear in "Uta no Oniisan"

Sakurai Sho of Arashi will appear in "Uta no Oniisan" which stars Ohno Satoshi from the same group. He will appear as himself to promote his new movie, "Yattaman" during the children's show which Ohno's character Yano Kenta appears in. In the scene, Ohno will have a monologue lamenting why the kids flock to Sakurai once they see the latter.

Source: Nikkansports

Preview of BOSS - Spring 2009

Title: BOSS
Broadcast by: FujiTV
O.A. Start Date: 16 April 2009
Timeslot: Thursdays, 10pm
Cast: Amami Yuki, Takenouchi Yutaka, Toda Erika, Mizobata Junpei, Kichise Michiko, Nukumizu Youichi
Official website: here

Okuribito regains No.1 spot in box office after 25 weeks of screening

Okuribito has regained the No.1 spot in the box office ranking for last week, 25 weeks since it started showing in cinemas. As the film had just won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, this led to a renewed interest in the film. Over the weekend from 28 Feb to 1 Mar, Okuribito recorded takings of 320 million yen in just 2 days. This also makes it the first film to get the No.1 spot after a long screening period.

Okuribito first screened in the cinemas on 13 Sep 08 and registered a No.5 ranking on its debut week. Over the next five weeks, its highest ranking was only No.3. In January this year, it was No.28 on the charts. However, with the Oscar award under its belt, the number of cinemas screening this movie increased with the renewed interest.