A premiere event for the live-action film adaptation of Akiko Higashimura's manga, Kakukaku Shikajika, took place on April 15, 2025, at Takarazuka Gakuen High School in Tokyo. The event was a star-studded affair, attended by the film's lead actress, Yumi Nagino, alongside notable co-stars including Yo Oizumi, Aisa Uematsu, Wakana Baba, Jin Suzuki, Sohto Mori, and director Ryo Kanwa. The attendees received an enthusiastic welcome from approximately 530 students, who cheered loudly as the cast walked the red carpet.
Yumi Nagino, dressed in a stylish pink sleeveless dress, expressed her gratitude to the students, saying, "Thank you for making it so lively! I was a bit sleepy this morning, but your energy woke me up instantly!" Her co-star, Yo Oizumi, also noted the overwhelming excitement of the crowd, humorously adding, "I had to cover my ears at one point; I was amazed at how energetic you all are!"
The film Kakukaku Shikajika is based on Higashimura's autobiographical work, which won the Manga Taisho Award in 2015. It tells the story of Akiko Hayashida, played by Nagino, a high school student with dreams of becoming a manga artist. The narrative focuses on her relationship with her strict art teacher, Kenzo Hidaka, portrayed by Oizumi, as they navigate a journey of growth and self-discovery over nine years.
During the premiere, the cast engaged with the students, answering questions and throwing signed color balls into the audience. The atmosphere was electric, with students having watched the film just the day before, on April 14. When Nagino asked the audience how they felt about the movie, they erupted in cheers, further fueling the excitement of the event.
Reflecting on their previous collaboration in the 2023 film Konnichiwa, Kaasan, Nagino praised Oizumi, stating, "We had fewer days of filming together last time, but this time we really got to work closely. He was supportive, funny, and took me out for delicious meals. It was fantastic!" Oizumi reciprocated the compliment, expressing his admiration for Nagino's performance, saying, "I witnessed her incredible talent as an actress. Her powerful acting made me feel like I had to bring my A-game to keep up with her!"
As the conversation turned to their high school memories, Nagino reminisced, "I was so busy with my career that I couldn't attend school regularly. I still remember my friends giving me a farewell message when I had to leave, and they waved goodbye from the window." Oizumi, on the other hand, shared a more subdued memory, saying, "I wasn't particularly notable in school. I once talked about starting a comedy club with a friend, but it was just the two of us who ended up joining."
Director Ryo Kanwa expressed satisfaction with the cast's chemistry, noting, "There was a friendly atmosphere, but once rehearsal began, the tension was palpable. Both of them are true professionals!" The film, which features both comedic and dramatic scenes, aims to resonate with audiences, especially in a time when genuine communication is increasingly rare.
As the event wrapped up, Oizumi addressed the students, saying, "Thank you for gathering here this morning. You gave me so much energy! I hope many people get to see this film." Nagino added a heartfelt message, saying, "I thought of the people who have changed my life and those who have been pivotal in my journey. After watching the film, I sent them thank-you emails. Please enjoy your school life!"
The film Kakukaku Shikajika is set to be released nationwide on May 16, 2025, and promises to be an inspiring tale that connects with audiences on various levels, celebrating the importance of mentorship and the journey of self-discovery.
