On January 31, 2025, the much-anticipated film Kishu, Public. premiered at Marunouchi Piccadilly 1, Tokyo, drawing attention not only for its storyline but also for the engaging interactions among the cast during the stage greetings. The film features Kitaho Kio, well-known for his role as the lead, with the cast including Miyase Rumi, Shida Ayala, Matsui Kana, Takai Akari, Hori Miona, and director Eiken.
Kishu, Public. presents the gripping tale of high school students as they navigate the complex web of social hierarchy, showcasing the stressors and burdens often placed upon young people today. Kitaho Kio, addressing the audience, shared, "Today is the premiere, and I have been doing promotional activities since morning, but it hasn't fully sunk in until I met the audience here." His reflective tone struck a chord with those present, highlighting the emotional weight of their performances.
During the premiere, Kio emphasized the themes underscoring the film – the struggle for self-identity amid societal pressures. He stated, "I hope this film can be a trigger for people to think about holding on to themselves firmly. What would you do?" This poignant question encapsulates the film's core message, urging viewers to contemplate their values and paths.
Notably, the event was not without its light-hearted moments. Kitaho Kio encountered some playful ribbing from his fellow cast members due to his blunders during the introductory session. He humorously referred to the film as "having originated from music" before quickly correcting himself to, "No, this piece!" prompting laughter not only from the audience but his fellow cast members as well.
The camaraderie among the cast was evident, as they shared instances from their time during production. Miyase Rumi shared insights about his character's complexity, stating, "After watching, I hope you find those who seem crazy could actually be quite normal, but once you understand, you’ll see the layers beneath." Such reflections added depth to the film's narrative and induced curiosity among the audience.
Shida Ayala mentioned her experience preparing for her role, stating, "The challenge was transforming myself as the director envisioned; it was fascinating to embody the character.” Her comments reflected the collaborative spirit at the heart of the production.
Another compelling moment emerged when director Eiken addressed the success of the cast, stating, "While Kitaho Kio was the centerpiece, every actor brought their unique flavor to the project, and it’s not just the lead who shines but everyone involved. The competitive spirit during the filming made every scene electric." This acknowledgment reinforced the idea of unity and effort, serving as the backbone of the film's production.
High school themes resonate prominently throughout Kishu, Public., exploring interpersonal dynamics and the often-challenging classification systems found within educational settings. The cast did not shy away from discussing these tough issues; it was very much on the minds of young adults and teenagers alike.
With the premise being grounded in real struggles faced by students, many young viewers found the content relatable. Kio concluded his remarks with enthusiasm: "This film discusses how ordered societal structures can disturb normal relationships. Yet, it encourages each of you to think - how would you act?" This invitation to introspect aligns seamlessly with the film's intentions, aiming to leave audiences not only entertained but also thoughtful.
After the premiere screening, the audience was invited to participate actively, engaging them with the challenge posed by Kio. The vibrant atmosphere culminated with collective cheers of "Kishu, Public!" among attendees, encapsulating the film's enduring call for reflection.
Kishu, Public. is now showing across theaters nationwide, inviting viewers of all ages to witness its poignant explorations of adolescence, identity, and the often-complicated nature of relationships. Full of humor, serious questions, and heartfelt moments, this film promises not just entertainment but also inspiration and conversation long after the credits roll.