Kōki, the rising star of Japanese cinema, is set to captivate audiences once again in the upcoming film, Goddess Advent Before High School Debut Edition, which premieres on March 20, 2025. This two-part live-action adaptation is based on the popular Korean webtoon by Yaongyi, and Kōki plays the lead role of Reina Tanigawa, a high school girl whose life dramatically changes due to the transformative power of makeup.
In a recent interview, Kōki and her co-star Hayato Watanabe, who portrays Jun Kameda, discussed the film and their experiences while shooting. Kōki expressed how important makeup is to her, stating, “Makeup gives me the power to support my confidence and express myself.” Her character, Reina, certainly embodies this transformation. Initially insecure about her appearance, Reina learns to master the art of makeup, leading to her astonishing physical change from a bullied girl to a beautiful young woman.
Watanabe shared insights about his character, noting that the fatherly feelings he has for Reina add depth to Jun’s role as he observes her evolving journey. “I see my character as someone who provides comfort and guidance to Reina amidst her challenges,” he said. His portrayal emphasizes the emotional connections that bloom even in settings filled with peer rivalry.
The movie highlights themes of personal empowerment and resilience. As Reina navigates her new life, she encounters Jun, who eventually discovers her secret: the drastic contrast between her natural look and her made-up persona. To maintain her secret, Reina and Jun establish a master-servant relationship. This unique twist not only supports the character development but also sets up compelling dynamics between Reina, Jun, and another key character, Yū Igarashi, portrayed by Tsuya Kei. Igarashi has his own intriguing motivations that intersect with Reina's evolution.
Filmmakers Kazunari Hoshino and writer Sumire Suzuki have collaborated to bring this engaging story with relatable themes to life. The movie promises laughter, emotion, and perhaps a little drama as Reina’s journey is peppered with high school life challenges and weighty issues surrounding self-image.
As the release date approaches, excitement grows among fans, especially with the reveal of dramatic before-and-after visuals featuring Kōki showcasing both Reina’s raw, natural look and her glamorous transformation. The stark contrast has evoked significant public interest, making viewers eager to experience the full narrative on the big screen.
The dual film releases serve to build anticipation, with the first part focusing on Reina’s high school debut scheduled for March 20, while the follow-up, Goddess Advent After Propose Edition, will screen on May 1. This strategy not only helps maintain audience engagement but also allows for deeper exploration of character arcs and relationships in both parts.
Ultimately, Goddess Advent promises not just to be a story about transformation, but also a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Kōki and Watanabe’s performances aim to resonate with viewers, reminding them of the beauty in embracing one's true self while navigating the challenges of adolescence.
