The premiere of the highly anticipated movie, Hatara Kizoku, took place recently, marking the occasion with much fanfare as it continues to break records at the box office. The film, adapted from Akane Shimizu's comic of the same name, anthropomorphizes human cells to present their interactions and functions, offering audiences both entertainment and valuable life lessons.
During the premiere event, held on December 23, talent from the film, including Nagano Mei, Sato Takeru, Ashida Mana, and Abe Sadao, gathered to celebrate the film's remarkable success. Over its initial ten days, Hatara Kizoku has attracted 1.28 million viewers, with box office receipts surpassing 17.5 billion yen, securing its position atop the Japanese cinema charts.
The event saw Nagano, embodying the character of the red blood cell, glow in a vibrant red sleeveless dress. Meanwhile, Sato, portraying the white blood cell, commanded attention with his all-white attire, sparking humor and admiration among peers and attendees alike. Ashida, representing Niko, wore a delicate blue floral dress, creating a warm, familial ambiance alongside Abe, clad in elegant brown attire.
Abe reflected on his emotional scenes, particularly one where his character, Shigeru, grapples with grief. "I was truly crying during the performance, and even my family, who watched, couldn't help but shed tears," he shared humorously, also noting with laughter how his family was less moved when he had to perform against jellyfish stings.
Sato echoed this sentiment, noting his emotional response throughout the film. "I'm incredibly sensitive, so I tend to cry at everything during movies. My family also commented on the heartfelt moments, which really resonate with viewers. The reception from the audience has been overwhelmingly positive," he commented.
Ashida emphasized her connection during filming, stating, "There was this moment when Abe-san alone ate the bento made by Niko, and it was touching. Watching him conveyed so much pain, making it easy to empathize with Niko's character. His performance was incredibly powerful.”
Sharing the spotlight, Nagano echoed her co-stars' sentiments about the film's emotional depth, admitting to shedding tears upon watching the final cut. "I was reading the script, yet I found myself crying uncontrollably. It's both embarrassing and natural," she laughed, indicating the film's poignant engagement with viewers.
The film's success has been underscored by its reaching significant milestones, with director Takeuchi Hideki commenting on his initial apprehension about adding human storylines to the source material. “We took risks, and the positive feedback we've received has been reassuring. I'm glad we ventured beyond the original's limitations to create this film,” he expressed.
With each actor's unique perspective highlighting their significant contributions, the premiere successfully captured the essence of Hatara Kizoku, which has been described as joyful, tear-jerking, and enlightening.
During the event, conversations turned playful when Sato jested about his outfit. "I thought I was the only one dressing head to toe white! But it seems I could have taken notes from Nagano’s red attire, which I find absolutely stunning,” he remarked, eliciting laughter and applause from the audience.
With the winter holiday season upon us, the sentiments shared by the cast resonate deeply with many. Nagano revealed plans to experience the film again, stating, "I will be watching it again soon. It's my first time going to see it at 4D with Takeru — I’m very excited!"
Director Takeuchi also expressed enthusiasm for the family-friendly aspect of the film, exclaiming how delighted he was to see children come dressed as blood cells during the premiere. "It's great to see families engaging with the content so creatively. We want viewers of all ages to relate to the story and learn valuable lessons about health and emotions," he added.
Overall, Hatara Kizoku stands as not just another film but as an emotional experience, captivating audiences with its heartfelt performances and lessons on the importance of health and connection. The premiere has encapsulated the grind of the cast and crew, leading to overwhelming audience reactions and materializing their hard work positively.
With numerous recommendations pouring from the cast about rewatching the film, Hatara Kizoku is set to emotionally resonate with many during the festive season, inspiring viewers to cherish their well-being and relationships.
