On 13 February, the commemorative event “Nihon Saitama-ka Keikaku in Osaka” for the movie Tonde Saitama was held at Tsutenkaku in Shinsekai of Osaka city’s Naniwa-ku. It was attended by the two lead stars; Nikaido Fumi-san and GACKT-san.

　With regards to Osaka, Nikaido-san said, “During the filming for the movie, I stayed somewhere near here for about 2 months and I liked it so much that I’ve come to visit on my off days too. When I think of Osaka, I think of laughter, of humanity, of delicious meals, and my favourite Ramen shop too”. On the other hand, GACKT drew laughter when he said, “I often come here when I’m on tour. I think that Japan is becoming less and less energetic but Osaka is as energetic as always. Osaka is still energetic even when you walk around at night. Why am I repeating myself”.

　As part of the Nihon Saitama-ka Keikaku, a flag with “〇さ”on it was raised on the top of Tsutenkaku, and a Saitama-fied Billiken-san the God of Good Luck was also revealed. With regards to the flag, GACKT-san said, “That’s pretty funny. To think that (it is allowed) so easily”. Lastly, the two of them called out “Osaka too”, while the approximately 500-strong crowd called back with “I Love Saitama!”.

　This movie is based on the original work by mangaka Maya Mineo-san, whose works include Patarillo, which was announced in 1982 (Showa 57) when he lived in Saitama prefecture’s Tokorozawa city. Nikaido-san plays the role of Dannoura Momomi, the student council president of a prestigious school and the son of the governor of Tokyo, while GACKT plays the role of transfer student Asami Rei.

　Nationwide release is on 22 February.

Source: abeno.keizai.biz

Translation: GACKT ITALIA Team

Translation © GACKT ITALIA