On February 7, 2025, audiences will finally get to see the highly anticipated film "ショウタイムセブン" (Showtime Seven), starring renowned actor 阿部寛 (Hiroshi Abe). The movie has already stirred excitement within the entertainment community thanks to its unorthodox format and thrilling storyline. Directed by 渡辺一貴 (Kazuki Watanabe), the film is based on the popular South Korean thriller "テロ, ライブ" (Terror, Live) and promises to capture viewers with its live broadcast structure set against intense plot twists.
The excitement around the film is palpable, and it’s not just about its release. Just two days prior, on February 4, 2025, the channel テレビ大阪 (TV Osaka) will broadcast "歩いても 歩いても" (Still Walking), another film starring 阿部, recognized for its emotional depth and award-winning direction by 是枝裕和 (Hiroshi Kore-eda). This airing is intended to celebrate Abraham's diverse roles and remind audiences of his acting prowess, creating anticipation for Showtime Seven.
"ショウタイムセブン" is expected to showcase its unique narrative technique, where the film’s story evolves almost real-time during its broadcast. The film starts with calamity as its lead character, 折本 (played by Abe), is thrust back on camera to negotiate with a criminal who has rigged the studio with explosives. The high-stakes scenario forces the protagonist to confront decision-making dilemmas, all under the scrutiny of live television.
时隔40年演艺生涯，阿部によるは「内面がいろいろ動いているのだけども、それを見せちゃいけない。内なる葛藤がすごく面白いです」と新たな挑戦について熱く語った。この言葉は彼のキャラクターの複雑さと、観客が期待する予想外の展開を物語っている。
The lead cast included talents such as 竜星涼 (Ryusei Ryo) and 生見愛瑠 (Airu Ikumi), who expressed their own ambitions to portray their dynamic characters. Ryo, playing the role of the modern-day journalist, stated, "一度はやってみたい役。自分の挑戦という気持ちも含めて受けました," indicating his eagerness to explore the depths of his character, whereas Ikumi's role as the passionate announcer reflects the complex nature of truth and media.
Adding to the buzz, the production team has rolled out special promotional events leading up to the film's release. A unique segment called “ザ・世論調査” (The Public Opinion Poll) on “ショウタイム7” has been launched, where audiences can participate by expressing their views online about current public safety. The online engagement, revolving around hashtags such as “#ショウタイムセブン世論調査,” aims to act as both original marketing content and audience interaction—a bold move to blend traditional media with social interaction.
The film's producers, including 吉田鋼太郎 (Kota Yoshida), regard this real-time storytelling as both exciting and challenging. Reflecting on the creation process, he stated, "ほぼリアルタイムにお話が最初から最後まで進んでいく。その大変さと面白さがありましたね," emphasizing the logistical hurdles the crew faced but also the potential payoff of engaging storytelling.
Audience anticipation is heightened by nostalgic discussions surrounding 阿部の出演作品 with the 吉本ドラマ部 (Yoshimoto Drama Club). Videos released on their YouTube channel reveal zestful banter about 阿部's prior roles, particularly highlighting fan-favorites like “DRAGON桜” (Dragon Sakura) and “下町ロケット” (Shitamachi Rocket). These past successes aren't just memories for fans; they have shaped the expectations of 阿部's performance in his new roles, particularly as he navigates complex themes associated with tragedy and survival.
The lead-up to the release is as dynamic as the film’s storyline. Focusing on family ties, collective trauma, and public responsibility, “ショウタイムセブン” has set the stage to break conventional barriers in televised drama and suspense films, bringing forth unparalleled anticipation.
With touching portrayals and gripping narratives, “ショウタイムセブン” is not just breaking new ground for 阿部寛 but sets expectations at new heights for Japanese cinema. Audiences will be holding their breaths, awaiting the moment when they tune to theaters on February 7 and see how the gripping narrative, fused with live television's tension, culminates.
While waiting for the film's release, viewers can enjoy the retrospective celebration of 阿部's legacy, facilitated by the upcoming broadcast of “歩いても 歩いても,” guaranteeing 阿部’s impactful storytelling continues to resonate with audiences, ensuring fans remain engaged.