Directed by Yuicho Sato and starring Japanese idol group Arashi; Saigo No Yakusoku is more of a TV drama than a feature film, but remains an entertaining piece that holds your attention for the full running time, th a steady build up, and enough twists and turns to keep you entertained. Though the plot line is a little ‘far-fetched’ you can’t help but find yourself rooting for the characters, both bad and good. With strong introductions for all and enough individual personality to get you attached, writer Shigeki Kaneko has done a great job designed and preparing their protagonists.
Idol group Arashi won’t be well known to those who don’t have a keen interest in Japanese culture or J-pop. More eagle eyed film viewers may be familiar with Kazunari Ninomiya due to his magnificent role in Clint Eastwood’s Letters from Iwo Jima, but for most this would be your first introduction to their exploits. Whilst most cringe at the thought of pop-stars becoming actors, especially when they also sing the theme-tune; but once again Arashi don’t embarrass themselves and give some strong performances, though the style of Japanese drama may not lend itself, to say, winning an Oscar.
This is classic example of Japanese TV drama; complete with extended pauses, flawless melodrama and enough motivational speeches to fill philosophy textbook. Saigo No Yakusoku is great fun, and although released six years ago, this is a great gateway into Japanese TV drama for any fan of film.
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