Snow Man's Tatsuhiro Watanabe to Star in His First Solo Film!
Big Hit Horror Series Returns with Latest Instalment: "Accident Property Zoku: Terrifying Room Search" Set for July 25 Release
Tatsuhiro Watanabe, the 32-year-old member of the popular idol group Snow Man, is taking on his first lead role in the upcoming horror film "Accident Property Zoku: Terrifying Room Search," scheduled to be released on July 25, 2025. This film is the latest addition to the successful horror series, following the blockbuster "Accident Property: Terrifying Room Search" and promises to thrill audiences once again.
Directed by renowned filmmaker Hideo Nakata, who is credited with sparking the Japanese horror boom with the film "Ring" (1998), the upcoming film has expectations riding high, especially since its predecessor grossed approximately 2.34 billion yen, making it one of the highest-grossing Japanese horror films since 2001.
The film is based on Tanichi Matsubara's series of non-fiction horror stories, "Accident Property Ghost Story: Terrifying Room Search," which tells real-life experiences of individuals living in so-called accident properties—homes associated with tragedies and hauntings. Watanabe will portray Yahiro Kuwata, described as an "accident property resident talent" who discovers the terrifying secrets hidden within these properties as he navigates through haunted rooms and shares his encounters with the supernatural.
Watanabe's supporting cast includes Yuina Kuroshima as his love interest, Kasuhara Hana, and veteran actor Eita Yoshida as Kiyoto Fujiyoshi, the head of the entertainment agency where Yahiro works. The initial promotional videos released show Yahiro exploring various haunted locations, providing viewers with chilling glimpses of the terror awaiting him, from ghostly encounters to spine-tingling settings.
During the film's production report event held on March 16, 2025, Watanabe expressed his thoughts on stepping up to such significant expectations, stating, "The pressure is scary." He acknowledged the expectations of carrying on from his predecessor, Kazuya Kamenashi, who starred as the lead character in the first film. His reflection was noted with the words, "The situations make my spine freeze!"
Kamenashi lent his support to Watanabe, saying, "I am delighted to pass this baton to you. I hope you work hard on promotions to bring excitement this summer. But please make sure to keep your safety! I went through some unusual experiences myself, like using salt and taking spirit baths." His encouragement serves as both motivation and caution for Watanabe as he prepares for the unique challenges of the role.
The anticipation surrounding the film is palpable, fueled not only by Watanabe's budding film career but also by the legacy of the original film which shaped the viewing experience of modern Japanese horror. With Nakata's directorial prowess and Matsubara's captivating stories at play, it appears likely this film could live up to the significant success of its predecessor.
Fans of the franchise are eager to see how the film expands upon the original work's foundation, as Watanabe takes them through the haunted spaces of Japan, confronting fears and unearthing the past horrors they enclose. The first look at the teaser video displays Watanabe’s panicked face next to glimpses of eerie floor plans and unsettling revelations within the storyline.
"Accident Property Zoku: Terrifying Room Search" is set to not just be another film; it is poised to become a cultural talking point bringing back the fear and thrill of horror to the big screen. With compelling performances, especially from Watanabe, who is both nervous and excited to debut as the lead, audiences can expect hair-raising moments wrapped with intriguing narratives.
Mark your calendars; this summer promises to be filled with terror as the film hits theaters nationwide. Horror enthusiasts and moviegoers await what is sure to be another chilling contribution to the celebrated genre, made all the more engaging through Watanabe's dynamic performance.