On March 17, 2025, the highly anticipated premiere of the movie #SpeakTheTruth took place at TOHO Cinemas Roppongi Hills in Tokyo. The event was marked by considerable excitement, with overwhelming interest as the ticket application rate was approximately 140 times oversubscribed. This unique film is directed by Eiji Tsukamoto and is based on the best-selling mystery novel by Shinichi Yuzawa, which features themes of exposing hidden truths through live broadcasting.
The star-studded cast includes Mototaka Omori of Mrs. GREEN APPLE fame and Kazuma Kikuchi from the group timelesz. Other prominent actors include Ayami Nakajo, Amane Okayama, and Riko Fukumoto, all of whom were present at the premiere. Cast members took to the red carpet with bright smiles, participating eagerly in photo sessions before the announcement of the film's narrative.
The audience was treated to the dynamic atmosphere of the premiere as the cast walked through the aisles to the stage, greeted with loud applause and cheers. During the event, Mototaka Omori shared his thoughts, expressing, "I’m so excited and at the same time nervous. It feels surreal to present this project to everyone." His enthusiasm set the tone for the rest of the cast’s appearances, where they shared their experiences filming.
Kazuma Kikuchi similarly engaged with the audience, stating, "This film is really special. I couldn’t wait to meet many of you," highlighting the cast’s anticipation for the audience’s reaction to the film. The tension around spoiler alerts was palpable, as this film holds significant mystique and suspense.
Fukumoto, who plays the role of a college student selling 'truth,' noted, "This movie will really make you think about significant contemporary issues. It’s true entertainment!" Her excitement reflects the film’s multilayered plot, which focuses on the interplay of gossip, truths, and viewer engagement through live avenues.
This cinematic offering, #SpeakTheTruth, is not only based on Yuzawa's 2021 award-winning short story #KukakuKibo but also incorporates later narratives from his collection titled #SpeakTheTruth, published the following year. The film encapsulates the essence of modern-day storytelling, particularly how audiences and participants engage with content.
During the red carpet event, attendees could feel the strong gusts of wind, accompanied by the lively chatter of cast interactions. Riko Fukumoto shared her gratitude for the valuable insights she received during filming, particularly from fellow actor Hideto Ito, who portrayed her father. "I was really able to let my character be free. I received lots of inspiration from Mototaka," stated Kikuchi, who praised the work environment.
Describing their filming dynamics, Kikuchi reiterated, "Everyone’s perception varies; it’s what makes this film interesting," encouraging viewers to draw diverse interpretations upon experiencing the film. Audience engagement with this film promises not just entertainment but also thought-provoking discussions about the truths we confront.
Reflecting on the unique challenges faced during filming, Riko’s remarks on her admiration for Hideto Ito’s physical presence left the crowd chuckling as she noted merely seeing him during filming was captivating, emphasizing how the casting process was serendipitous at best.
The premiere also served as the beginning of the buzz leading up to the film's nationwide release, which is set for April 25, 2025. The cinematic experience is poised to challenge viewers’ perceptions, prompting them to evaluate and engage with the narrative on various levels.
With the launch just around the corner, the excitement surrounding #SpeakTheTruth builds, hinting at its potential impact on the mystery genre and audience expectations alike. This film promises to blend ordinary lives and extraordinary circumstances through its examination of pop culture phenomena and social interactions.
Coupled with the extraordinary cast and their genuine connections, as evidenced by their interactions at the premiere, viewers can expect a thoroughly captivating experience with #SpeakTheTruth. Be sure to catch the film when it hits theaters nationwide on April 25!
