The highly anticipated movie Last Mile, starring Hikari Mitsushima, has officially begun distribution on the streaming platform U-NEXT as of April 25, 2025. This gripping suspense film has already made waves, recording a staggering box office revenue of 59.6 billion yen, showcasing its popularity among audiences.
Directed by Ayuko Tsukahara and written by Akiko Nogi, Last Mile has garnered critical acclaim, winning several prestigious awards. Nogi received the Best Screenplay Award at the 98th Kinema Junpo Best Ten Japanese Film Awards and the Best Screenplay at the 48th Japan Academy Prize, while Tsukahara was honored at the 49th Hochi Film Awards. This creative team, known for their successful collaborations, has once again delivered a captivating story, highlighting their exceptional talent.
The film's narrative unfolds in Tokyo on the eve of Black Friday, a significant shopping event that has gained traction in Japan in recent years. The plot revolves around a series of chilling bomb explosions linked to a major American e-commerce company, Daily Fast, which sets the stage for a thrilling non-stop suspense adventure. The title Last Mile refers to the final segment of the logistics process, where packages are delivered to customers, and the story explores the chaos that ensues when this process is disrupted.
As the story progresses, viewers are introduced to Elena Funato, played by Mitsushima, who has just been appointed as the center manager at Daily Fast's massive logistics warehouse. Alongside her team manager, Ko Narimoto, portrayed by Masataka Kubota, she must navigate the challenges posed by the bombings while ensuring the logistics network remains operational. "Can they stop the bombings without halting the distribution network?" is a question that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
Mitsushima's portrayal of Elena is multifaceted, showcasing a character filled with mystery and depth. Nogi crafted this role specifically for Mitsushima, who brings both delicacy and boldness to the screen, making Elena a character that audiences can both relate to and root for. Kubota’s Narimoto complements her performance with his own dynamic range, embodying a modern young worker who is diligent yet often overwhelmed by the unfolding chaos.
The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Sadao Abe, Dean Fujioka, Masahiro Hino, Shohei Uno, Tamaki Ando, Tomoki Maruyama, and Tomoya Nakamura, among others. Additionally, several guest stars add to the film's allure, enhancing its appeal and drawing in a wider audience.
On the day of its release, the film's director and writers shared insights about the production and the overwhelming positive response from audiences. Tsukahara expressed her excitement about the film's reception, stating, "I hope this movie resonates with viewers and keeps them guessing until the very end." Nogi added, "Creating a suspenseful narrative that intertwines with real-world events has been a rewarding challenge for us as storytellers."
Since its theatrical release, Last Mile has received numerous accolades, and its transition to home media with the Blu-ray and DVD release on the same day as its streaming debut further emphasizes its success. Fans are eager to revisit the film, which combines thrilling action with a thought-provoking exploration of logistics and societal issues.
As the film continues to gain traction, it has sparked conversations around the logistics industry and the impact of major shopping events like Black Friday on society. The increased demand for deliveries during such times often leads to heightened pressure on logistics companies and their employees, making the film's themes particularly relevant.
The release of Last Mile on U-NEXT also marks a significant step for the film's accessibility, allowing a broader audience to experience its gripping storyline and stellar performances. As viewers dive into the world of Last Mile, they will find themselves immersed in a narrative that is not only entertaining but also reflective of contemporary issues.
In summary, Last Mile stands as a testament to the talent of its creators and the compelling performances of its cast. As it continues to make waves in the film industry, audiences are encouraged to tune in and experience the suspense for themselves.
