Rie Mukai is set to make his international debut at the 27th Udine Far East Film Festival (FEFF) in Italy with the highly anticipated film "Ya Boy Kongming! THE MOVIE." The festival, which runs from April 24 to May 2, 2025, will showcase 77 films from 12 countries and regions, including Japan, China, South Korea, and Hong Kong.
"I am very honored that 'Ya Boy Kongming!' was selected as the closing film at the film festival in Italy. I am very happy to be participating in my first overseas film festival. I hope that many people will watch 'Ya Boy Kongming!' and that its world view will be well received," Mukai expressed enthusiastically.
FEFF, which has been held annually since 1999, focuses on providing a new perspective on Asian cinema. The festival has garnered a reputation for showcasing significant works, previously featuring the hit film "Thermae Romae II," which grossed over 4 billion yen. This year, Mukai's film will close the festival at the grand Teatro Nuovo, a 1,200-seat opera house, emphasizing its high-profile status.
The storyline of "Ya Boy Kongming! THE MOVIE" revolves around the legendary strategist Kongming, portrayed by Mukai, who reincarnates in modern-day Shibuya. In this contemporary setting, he aims to help amateur singer Eiko Tsukimi, played by Moka Kamishiraishi, achieve success through the power of music. The film captures their journey as they prepare for Japan's largest music battle festival, where they face off against formidable rivals, the Sima Ito and Shin siblings.
The original comic, which has sold over 2.5 million copies, has already been adapted into a popular anime and TV drama, making this film a much-anticipated continuation of the story. Mukai noted that the film features a unique genre, often referred to as a "festival movie," showcasing a blend of music and drama.
During a recent interview, Mukai reflected on the overwhelming response to the TV drama adaptation, stating, "I heard many people in the music industry were watching it. It was quite a surprise to see how much interest there was, especially among artists who wanted to be part of the project."
He also shared insights into the filming process, particularly the elaborate preparations for the costume and make-up, which took about an hour each day. Mukai humorously recounted the challenges he faced while riding a bicycle in his costume during one of the scenes, which added a layer of complexity to his performance.
As the film gears up for its release on April 25, excitement is building. The advanced screening event held on April 7 received positive feedback, with attendees enveloped in the film's ambiance. Mukai described the atmosphere, saying, "The entire venue was filled with the afterglow of the movie, and I felt we were able to create a high-quality work as a new genre of festival movie and entertainment piece."
In preparation for his role, Mukai consulted with the director and producers early in the production process to ensure his portrayal of Kongming resonated with audiences. He acknowledged the challenges of adapting such a beloved character, stating, "I wanted to surprise the fans of the original work in a good way and ensure that the essence of Kongming was captured on screen."
As the festival approaches, Mukai is eager to witness the international audience's reaction to "Ya Boy Kongming! THE MOVIE." He remarked, "I want to see how the world perceives this unique universe we've created. It's a proud moment for all of us involved in the project."
The film not only promises to entertain but also aims to provide a fresh perspective on the themes of ambition and friendship through music, making it a significant addition to the landscape of Asian cinema. As Mukai prepares for his journey to Italy, the anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow, marking a new chapter in his career.
