On April 18, 2025, TBS premiered its highly anticipated legal drama, Ignite -Lawless Lawyer-, featuring Shota Matsuda in his first starring role on the network. This original series, produced in collaboration with content studio BABEL LABEL, offers a fresh take on the legal genre, focusing on a group of "lawless" lawyers who thrive on stirring up litigation for profit.
The show centers around Ujizaki Ryo, portrayed by Matsuda, who embarks on his legal career following the tragic death of his father. Ryo's journey from a struggling salaryman to a newly minted lawyer is both compelling and relatable. After passing the bar exam with mediocre scores, he secures a position at the Peace Law Office, thanks to an introduction from his mother, Junko, played by Tomoko Fujita.
Ryo's first case is a challenging one—he represents Saeki Mika, the widow of a worker who died in a silo accident at Yamagami Industries three years prior. The accident, which occurred in 2022, serves as a critical backdrop for the unfolding drama. The case quickly escalates as Ryo navigates the complexities of the legal system, showcasing the pressures and moral dilemmas faced by young lawyers in a saturated market.
In a dramatic twist during the last five minutes of the premiere episode, viewers are shocked to discover that Kashiwagi Takuya, the cold and calculating lawyer for Yamagami Industries, played by Mitsuhiro Oikawa, is not the enemy he appears to be. Instead, he and Ryo's boss, Todoroki Kenjiro, played by Toru Nakamura, had been collaborating all along to ensure a successful outcome for Mika.
Reactions to this unexpected turn of events have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers taking to social media to express their surprise. Comments such as "I was deceived!" and "What a twist!" flooded in, highlighting the show's ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Accompanying the premiere, Matsuda, along with co-stars Kamishiraishi Mone and Nakamura, made a surprise appearance in Shibuya to promote the series. The trio engaged with fans and distributed limited-edition novelties to commemorate the show's launch, creating a buzz around the drama's debut.
The production team behind Ignite is noteworthy, featuring director Hiroki Hara, known for his work on the film Kaettekita Abunai Deka. The series promises not only intense courtroom drama but also authentic action scenes, setting it apart from typical legal dramas.
In a landscape where the number of lawyers in Japan has surged dramatically—rising from less than 20,000 in 2003 to around 45,000 in 2023—the show reflects the realities of a profession grappling with oversaturation. The motto of the Peace Law Office, "It's good if conflicts arise," encapsulates the show's darkly comedic approach to the legal field, as it explores how lawyers can thrive amidst fierce competition.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect to see Ryo's character evolve, grappling with ethical dilemmas while trying to establish his identity in a cutthroat environment. The show’s narrative promises to delve into the personal and professional challenges faced by those in the legal system, making it a poignant commentary on contemporary society.
Moreover, the theme song for the series, performed by the popular band B'z, adds another layer of excitement, creating a strong emotional connection to the story. The song, titled "Osoreru beki wa karei naru hai wa hai ni," resonates with the show's themes of struggle and perseverance.
With its blend of drama, action, and social commentary, Ignite -Lawless Lawyer- is poised to capture the hearts of viewers across Japan. The first episode sets the stage for what promises to be an engaging exploration of the legal world, filled with unexpected twists and moral complexities.
As fans eagerly await the next installment, the show stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Japanese television, where innovative storytelling meets pressing societal issues. Ignite is not just a legal drama; it's a reflection of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who dare to navigate the murky waters of the law.
