Even if you're not a manga fanatic, you've definitely heard the name "Osamu Tezuka." The legendary "God of Manga" created over 400 titles, including classics like "Astro Boy," "Black Jack," and "The Three-Eyed One," leaving an irreplaceable mark on the Japanese manga industry.
Recently, Japanese broadcasters MBS/TBS announced a live-action adaptation of Tezuka's iconic work, "The Song of Apollo." Starring Shori Sato (from Sexy Zone) and Akari Takaishi, the series is set to premiere on February 18th, with the main visual and a teaser trailer already unveiled.
"The Song of Apollo" is based on Osamu Tezuka's sci-fi manga of the same name, serialized in "Weekly Shonen King" in 1970. This dark fantasy delves into the true meaning of love through a multi-reincarnation love story, exploring the human experience of love and karma. It's often cited as a prime example of "Dark Tezuka," also reflecting the societal turmoil and rampant violence prevalent in 1970s Japan.
Under the supervision of Tezuka Productions, this classic is being reimagined for a modern live-action audience. Acclaimed director Ken Ninomiya, known for works like "The Sleeping Beauty" and "Chiwawa Romance," is at the helm.
Shori Sato (Sexy Zone), who plays the protagonist Shogo Konishi, expressed his honor: "Seeing Osamu Tezuka's illustration on the project proposal filled me with immense joy to be part of such a work. Shogo, the character I portray, is a young man who rejects love and lives in the shadows. When he finally experiences true love, he's burdened with the fate of having to leave the real world. It's an incredibly challenging role."
Meanwhile, Akari Takaishi, cast as the heroine Hiromi Watari, shared her thoughts: "When I first read the original manga, I felt that Tezuka's depiction of love, though seemingly twisted, was profoundly pure. Director Ninomiya has faithfully conveyed this core value in the adaptation, and I've strived to keep that sense of purity at the forefront of my performance. During filming, the director also allowed me immense creative freedom, pushing my acting boundaries. I hope everyone tunes in to watch this interpretation of love."
Director Ken Ninomiya noted that "The Song of Apollo" is one of the most impactful Osamu Tezuka works in his opinion. "Love is an immortal theme, both sweet and painful, and the very root that sustains life. I hope this drama encourages viewers to re-examine and ponder the true meaning of love."
While "The Song of Apollo" might not be as widely known, it's undeniably a classic and distinctive piece from Osamu Tezuka's oeuvre. This live-action adaptation has already garnered significant attention from Japanese netizens, especially with the highly anticipated direction of Ken Ninomiya. Get ready to add it to your watch list this February!
via： 真人日劇《阿波羅之歌》官方 X