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Netflix Announces New Romance Series from Japan Starring: Shun Oguri, Han Hyo-Joo, Yuri Nakamura, and Jin Akanishi
Netflix has announced the production of a new romance series from Japan, featuring a global ensemble cast and some of the finest creative talent from across Asia and the world. Based on the French film Les Émotifs anonymes (English: Romantics Anonymous), which won the Audience Award at the French Film Festival in Japan in 2011, the upcoming series promises a delightful blend of romance and humor.
The story kicks off with a chance encounter between a man and a woman sparked by their mutual love for chocolate. The catch? Both live with their own anxiety disorders. The man can't physically touch others, while the woman can't make eye contact, making their budding relationship both challenging and endearing.
The series features talents from Japan and Korea including Shun Oguri who plays the main lead, along with Han Hyo-Joo as the heroine, and Jin Akanishi.
Oguri portrays Sosuke Fujiwara, the new representative of popular chocolate shop "Le Sauveur" and the son of a major confectionery magnate. Sosuke's germophobia, stemming from a traumatic past, complicates his new job.
Han plays Hana Lee, a gifted chocolatier who conceals her identity from the Le Sauveur members, except for the owner, and battles her own fears of social interactions.
Yuri Nakamura also joins the project as Irene, a renowned psychologist and author who not only serves as Sosuke's primary physician but also becomes a counselor to Hana, helping her navigate her challenges. Despite her professional success, Irene faces her own struggles with alcoholism and romantic relationships.
Lastly, Jin Akanishi joins them as Hiro Takada, the owner of the bar "Brush," whom Hana secretly harbors feelings for. He has been friends with Sosuke since their school days and had a close relationship with the original owner of "Le Sauveur", Hana's mentor.
Sho Tsukikawa (Yu Yu Hakusho), who's also known for numerous romantic films, will direct the series. In addition, Lee Ha Jun (Parasite) will lead the production design, including the central chocolate boutique set that's almost like another character in the story. Yang Jin Mo (Parasite) will serve as editor, and Dalpalan, an award-winning veteran music director, will work on the music. This is the first Japanese series developed and produced by YONG FILM (Believer 2, The Call, 20th Century Girl, My Name is Loh Kiwan), known for their skillfully crafted and diverse projects.
This new romance series is currently in production and will be coming to Netflix in 2025.
Quotes from the talents:
Shun Oguri (as Sosuke Fujiwara):
When I received the offer, the plot was tightly crafted and the project's vision was clear. An amazing cast and crew quickly came together, and I was very excited to start. Currently, we're diligently examining the nuances and differences between the Japanese and Korean languages and do our best to make this work better. I look forward to continuing this enjoyable project with this wonderful team and deliver excitement and thrills to everyone.
Han Hyo-Joo (as Hana Lee):
It's been exciting to work on a Japanese project again after all this time. I'm especially delighted to be acting alongside our Korean team of producers, and the art, editing and music directors in this collaboration between Korea and Japan.
While we've faced some challenges due to the collaborative nature of this project, I'm truly enjoying working with the director, my co-actors and our staff. I've made many unforgettable memories.
With the mindset of a rookie actor experiencing the anticipation of being in production, I'm fully committed and determined to do my best for the viewers and to make this series truly outstanding.
Please show us your support.
Yuri Nakamura (as Irene):
No matter how happy someone might seem, each person has their own struggles. This romantic comedy depicts the lives of adults who live desperately, albeit comically. Working with a cast and staff from different language backgrounds has really highlighted the importance of communication, especially now that remote work is common. We're all putting our best efforts into this project. I've been deeply inspired by the passion and positivity of Han Hyo-Joo and all the Korean staff. We're excited to deliver something truly special.
Jin Akanishi (as Hiro Takada):
I am sincerely delighted to be able to participate in this collaborative project between Korea and Japan. Despite the challenges, such as language barriers and cultural differences, I'm having a fun and valuable experience.
I was impressed by how the heroine of this series speaks Japanese fluently, and the Korean staff's dedication to improve their Japanese, showing a willingness to get closer to us. I believe many Japanese actors and staff are stimulated a lot in such an international atmosphere. Plus, Hana's cute character adds a lot of charm to this series.
Please enjoy everyone's performance.
Sho Tsukikawa, Director:
The Japanese and Korean staff and cast are working together while respecting each other's cultures and opinions. We've engaged in numerous discussions from pre-production to moments before each shot, always striving to determine "what is best."
Han Hyo-Joo, our heroine, wrote something on my iPad. It was the Korean phrase "마지막 마지막까지 화이팅!," which means "Let's do our best until the very very end!" in Japanese. This has become our project's rallying cry, motivating us every day.
We still don't know the final outcome. We are searching for the best approach as we film. It's an exhilarating process, and we're committed to combining all our efforts to deliver something exceptional.
Please look forward to the final product!
Lim Seung Young, Production and showrunner from YONG FILM:
I am truly delighted to witness the process of a project coming to fruition after 10 years of development; through the hands of a Korean screenwriter, a Japanese director, and the performance of top actors from both Japan and Korea. I hope that this work, developed and produced by the Korean production company YONG FILM, in collaboration with the Netflix team in Japan, will be loved, and garner the interest of many worldwide.
Makiko Okano, Executive Producer:
When I stepped into the set of the chocolate shop "Le Sauveur," I was thrilled by the sweet and beautiful dreamlike world that unfolded before me. In this magnificent set, amidst the stunning scenery of Japan, leading actors from Japan and Korea deliver charming and endearing performances. The top-notch staff and cast from both countries respect each other's cultures and weave a beautiful story with pride. Please look forward to it.
Netflix Untitled Romance Series
Cast: Shun Oguri, Han Hyo-Joo, Yuri Nakamura, and Jin Akanishi
Director: Sho Tsukikawa
Screenplay: Kim Ji Hyun
Screenplay cooperation: Yoshikazu Okada
Cinematography: Kosuke Yamada
Production designer: Lee Ha Jun
Editor: Yang Jin Mo
Music: Dalpalan
Production/showrunner: Lim Seung Young
Developed by: Park So-yeon
Producers: Kim Yong Eun, Choi Gi Young, Kim-Keum Sil, Takuro Nagai, Mao Osaki
Production: YONG FILM, RYU FILM
Production cooperation: RIKI PROJECT
Based on: the film "Les Émotifs anonymes" directed by Jean-Pierre Ameris and written by Jean Pierre Ameris and Philippe Blasband
Produced by: Netflix
Release: 2025, globally only on Netflix
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