novelraw Chapter 187: Saving the Nation by a Curve! Using Foreigners to Help with Promotion! Exploding Public Opinion!
Chapter 187: Saving the Nation by a Curve! Using Foreigners to Help with Promotion! Exploding Public Opinion!
"Deputy Director Asumi, regarding the screening of 'Hachiko Monogatari', I have a bold assumption." Nohara Hiroshi's voice was peaceful and forceful, carrying an unquestionable confidence.
Asumi upon hearing this, his body slightly leaned forward, in those astute eyes of his, flashing the light of expectation: "Oh? Hiroshi-kun, what assumption do you have? Hurry up and say it to let us listen."
"My plan is like this." Nohara Hiroshi extended a finger, gently sliding in the air, as if drawing a grand blueprint: "Firstly, we must at Shibuya Station, establish the temporarily constructed Hachiko statue set up for movie filming previously, as a permanent building, letting it become the landmark statue of Shibuya Station and even the entire Tokyo, forever erecting there."
Asumi upon hearing this, his eyebrows slightly raised.
Establishing a permanent statue, this instead wasn't any difficult matter, after all the story of Hachiko was deeply moving, adding on the government's adding fuel to the flames, it was completely operable.
"This of course is no problem, Hiroshi-kun." Asumi nodded, on his face floated a trace of approving smile: "Hachiko's story indeed is worth being remembered. But... this seemingly still isn't sufficient to be called a 'bold' assumption right?"
Nohara Hiroshi merely smiled, within those clear eyes, not a single ripple arose.
"Of course it doesn't stop at this." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate mystery: "This is only the first step. The second step, is also the most crucial step, we must through foreign media, through foreign experts, to praise the Akita Inu this dog breed, praising they are an extremely intelligent and extremely high IQ dog breed, are dogs possessing noble character."
"What?!"
Asumi's eyes instantly widened, that open and bright smile on his face instantly stiffened, what replaced it, was a kind of unbelievable shock and... horror! Through foreign media and experts to praise Akita Inus?!
He blankly looked at Nohara Hiroshi, in his mind yet was a patch of chaos.
Establishing a statue, this is very simple.
But through foreign media and experts to praise Akita Inus... this, isn't this the typical "worshiping foreign things"?!
Asumi felt a jumble of mixed feelings in his heart.
Although he didn't want to admit it, but he was also very clear, the current Nippon, although economically extremely developed, claiming to be the world's second largest economic entity, but in culture and national psychology, facing America and Europe, yet always situated in a subtle state of inferiority.
This kind of inferiority, interwoven with the arrogance deep in the bones of Nippon people, formed a peculiar national psychology —— both arrogant and inferior.
They longed to obtain the world's recognition, yet also habitually viewed foreign evaluations, higher than their own country's.
"Hiroshi-kun... you... you are saying, we want to use this kind of... this kind of 'worshiping foreign things' mentality, to promote the Akita Inu?" Asumi's voice trembled, tone full of confusion and... a trace of resistance.
He looked at that peaceful face of Nohara Hiroshi, in his heart feeling a burst of complexity.
He knew Nohara Hiroshi was exceptionally intelligent, but at this moment, he yet towards this kind of strategy of using the national "inferiority", felt somewhat uncomfortable.
Nohara Hiroshi merely peacefully smiled, within those clear eyes, not a single ripple arose.
He knew Asumi's worries, also knew this kind of strategy, indeed was somewhat "dishonorable".
"Deputy Director Asumi, what you said is right." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and unhurried: "I indeed plan to use this 'both arrogant and inferior' mentality of our Nippon citizens."
"However..." He paused, his gaze casting towards Asumi, in his eyes flashing a kind of profound yet confident light: "This isn't purely an exploitation, it is even more a kind of... a kind of 'guiding according to circumstances', a kind of 'saving the nation by a curve'."
"Guiding according to circumstances? Saving the nation by a curve?" Asumi upon hearing this, his brows tightly locked, face written full of confusion.
He looked at that young and confident face of Nohara Hiroshi, in his heart felt a burst of incomprehension. He always felt, these words of Nohara Hiroshi, seemingly hid a deeper level of meaning.
"Yes, guiding according to circumstances, saving the nation by a curve." Nohara Hiroshi nodded, tone becoming even more solemn: "Deputy Director Asumi, both you and I know, our Nippon citizens, towards this concept of 'loyalty', is carved in the bones. But following the vicissitudes of the era, this kind of 'loyalty', yet gradually got polluted by the secular world, becoming no longer pure, even, somewhat numb."
"And 'Hachiko Monogatari', what it wants to convey, is exactly that purest, most selfless, most directly touching the heart's loyalty. But, if we directly use our own country's media and experts, to go promote the loyalty of the Akita Inu, to go educate the citizens to learn a dog's loyalty, what do you think the effect will be?"
Nohara Hiroshi asked in return, his gaze peacefully attentively looking at Asumi.
Asumi upon hearing this, an expression of being deep in thought revealed on his face. He knew, if really doing it like that, afraid it would trigger the antipathy of the citizens, even would have people jump out accusing them of "insulting the citizens".
"Therefore, Hiroshi-kun, what you mean is..." Asumi's voice carried a trace of trembling, he seemingly already guessed Nohara Hiroshi's intention.
"Yes." Nohara Hiroshi nodded, tone peaceful and firm: "Exactly because we directly faced this kind of 'inferiority', exactly because we know the citizens' 'disdain' towards our own country's promotion, therefore, we have to exactly do the opposite."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Asumi, eyes full of light: "We through the praises of foreign experts and foreign media, implanting the matter of the Akita Inu being more intelligent, more loyal, into the impressions of the citizens. When the citizens see even foreigners recognizing the loyalty of the Akita Inu, recognizing Hachiko's story, then they will put down the resistance in their hearts, then will truly go accept this 'loyalty' education."
"Slowly, when this kind of concept deeply penetrates people's hearts, when the citizens begin to take pride in the loyalty of the Akita Inu, haven't we quietly, removed that kind of 'worshiping foreign things' inferiority? Ultimately, haven't we cultivated the citizens' moral outlook towards loyalty and familial affection?"
Nohara Hiroshi's words, exactly like a dry clap of thunder, ruthlessly knocking on Asumi's heart!
Asumi blankly stood in place, he looked at that young and confident face of Nohara Hiroshi, in his mind continuously playing back these words of Nohara Hiroshi.
He felt there seemed to be some problem inside this, but carefully thinking about it, yet felt what Nohara Hiroshi said, indeed made a lot of sense.
Using the inferiority of the citizens, to achieve the ultimate goal —— cultivating the citizens' loyalty and familial affection moral outlook.
This... this is simply, the wrist (means/tactics) of a politician!
Moreover, most importantly, this also conformed to the "political task" Governor Koike handed to them previously —— wanting the works to be capable of leading the national character, embodying the Nippon spirit.
"Hiroshi-kun... you... you are truly a... monster ah!" Asumi muttered to himself, on his face at this moment written full of disbelief.
He never thought, a movie producer, actually could elevate the promotion of a movie, to such a high political level, actually could analyze the national psychology, so thoroughly.
He looked at Nohara Hiroshi, eyes full of appreciation and expectations: "Good! Hiroshi-kun! Your plan, I agree to it! Moreover, I will also fully support you!"
He fiercely slammed the table, tone becoming impassioned: "Isn't it just overseas promotion?! I Asumi, also have some media friends overseas! I will go contact them right now, letting them fully coordinate with your promotion plan!"
He paused, his gaze casting towards Nohara Hiroshi, eyes full of decision: "Let's do this, TV Tokyo out of the high regard towards you this genius, as well as the massive potential of this movie 'Hachiko Monogatari', our Production Bureau can support you with one hundred million yen of overseas promotion fees!"
"One hundred million yen?!" Nohara Hiroshi was astonished.
Although he had anticipations towards overseas promotion, but he never thought, Asumi actually could approve a huge sum of one hundred million yen in expenses for him!
This is no small amount ah! This is sufficient to let 'Hachiko Monogatari' in overseas, set off a massive promotion storm!
He fiercely stood up, deeply bowing towards Asumi, that sincere gratitude, came from the bottom of his lungs: "Many thanks Deputy Director Asumi! Your vigorous support, I, Nohara Hiroshi, will engrave in my heart!"
Asumi merely raised his hand waving it, on that open and bright face, overflowing with a proud smile.
"Hiroshi-kun, you don't need to thank me." Asumi softly opened his mouth, tone full of emotional sighing: "These are all what you deserve. Your current fame, your talent, your works, are all sufficient to be worthy of this investment!"
He paused, his gaze casting towards Nohara Hiroshi, eyes full of expectations: "Do you know, you now in our TV Tokyo, are a resounding figure! Your name, in the board of directors, are all relished talking about by those old fellows!"
"Your three planned programs, 'Kasou Taishou', 'Tales of the Unusual', 'Yamishibai', are now already our TV Tokyo's greatest treasures! They didn't only bring massive viewership ratings, even more brought massive social influence!"
"Especially the movie 'Seven Samurai', it didn't only bring you personally massive wealth, even more brought our TV Tokyo a huge dividend of three billion yen! This is an achievement our TV Tokyo, hasn't ever had in the recent ten years ah!"
Asumi saying as he did, a smug smile floated on his face: "Therefore ah, Hiroshi-kun, you are now our TV Tokyo's 'God of Wealth'! Us investing one hundred million yen of overseas promotion fees for you, that is all a small matter! As long as you can continue to bring our TV Tokyo, even more miracles, even more wealth, we will even invest more for you!"
Nohara Hiroshi listening to these words of Asumi, felt a myriad of emotions in his heart.
What Asumi said was right.
His current status in TV Tokyo, indeed already reached an unprecedented height.
His name, his works, his talent, all became existences that TV Tokyo, and even the entire Nippon cultural circle, were incapable of ignoring.
However, in front of this massive achievement, in Nohara Hiroshi's heart, yet also surged a trace of imperceptible regret.
He thought of the life of that "Nohara Hiroshi" from the previous life, thought of that longing of his towards freedom, the pursuit towards independent creation.
He knew, if it was in the previous life's Huaxia, with his current achievements, he could completely establish his own film and television company, independently producing movies, TV dramas, variety shows, even forming his own manga empire, becoming a true "cultural giant".
But, here is Nippon.
Nippon, is a country that doesn't encourage job-hopping, and even more a country that doesn't encourage independently opening a company.
Here, a company is similar to a domain or Daimyo during the Sengoku Period, while employees, are then similar to retainers or vassals.
Once you choose to job-hop, or independently open a company, it will be viewed as a "betrayal", will be disdained by society, even will be ruthlessly suppressed by those powerful financial cliques and consortiums.
This kind of suppression, is comprehensive, is from the social level to the governmental affairs level, is the true meaning of "banning completely".
Small factories, small production workshops, or like Misae's Future Comic Club, as well as elder brother Nohara Semashi's Agricultural Corporation, these small-time companies playing around, perhaps can still barely survive.
But once touching upon those truly interest-related domains, for instance movies, TV dramas, variety shows these grand productions, then they will know what is called a true "financial clique", what is called a true "consortium", that kind of terrifying control, is sufficient to make anyone attempting to challenge them, entirely die without an intact corpse.
This is also the reason why Nohara Hiroshi, has always not left TV Tokyo.
He clearly knew, if he now chose to be independent, then, what he would face, would be the combined strangulation of the entire Nippon cultural circle.
The movies he created, perhaps couldn't even pass auditing.
The TV dramas he produced, perhaps couldn't even find broadcasting channels on television stations.
The mangas he drew, perhaps couldn't even find a publishing platform with publishers.
That kind of suppression coming from the entire society, the entire national level, is sufficient to make any genius, thoroughly sink into oblivion.
Therefore, he could only choose to lie dormant, could only choose to rely on.
Rely on this behemoth TV Tokyo, rely on Bureau Chief Sakata Nobuhiko, rely on Excellency Fujiwara Hideaki, even rely on Governor Koike.
What he had to do, was on this massive chessboard, become a, most important, most indispensable chess piece.
He wanted to let TV Tokyo, become the "chariot" for him Nohara Hiroshi, to realize his own cultural ambitions.
He wanted to let the culture of Nippon, in his hands, walk towards the world, influence the world.
And he, Nohara Hiroshi, will also in this process, step by step, walk towards that cultural peak, becoming a person truly capable of influencing an era, changing the world.
When that time comes.
Instead he will become the feudal lord, become the Daimyo... becoming the existence that wields the bull's ear in the Nippon cultural circle!
He will ascend to a high position!
Nohara Hiroshi exhaled a long breath, in that breath, carried a trace of emotional sighing, a trace of helplessness, and also carried a trace of, infinite longing towards the future.
He withdrew his thoughts, his gaze once again cast towards Asumi, on his face surfaced a faint smile.
"Deputy Director Asumi, what you said is right." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and firm: "These, are all what I ought to do. I will definitely continue to work hard, to not disappoint the expectations you and TV Tokyo have towards me."
Asumi upon hearing this, a satisfied smile revealed on his face.
He knew, Nohara Hiroshi already completely understood his intent.
"Very good, Hiroshi-kun." Asumi nodded, he looked at the time on his wristwatch, on his face surfaced a trace of faint weariness: "Since that's the case, then let us begin discussing, the screening time of 'Hachiko Monogatari'."
Nohara Hiroshi upon hearing this, a satisfied smile revealed on his face.
He knew, this was exactly his true purpose for coming today.
"Deputy Director Asumi, regarding the screening time of 'Hachiko Monogatari', I already have a preliminary plan in my heart." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and firm: "I hope, this movie, can be in a, most suitable timing, presented in front of everyone."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Asumi, eyes flashing a confident light: "I suggest, we can begin screening at the end of April and beginning of May. Exactly the Golden Week of Japan!"
"Golden Week?!" Asumi rubbed his chin pondering.
Golden Week!
That is Nippon's longest consecutive holiday in a year!
The consecutive holiday formed by Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day and Children's Day (Boys' Day) four statutory holidays.
During this period, the whole country, regardless if it's students or office workers, will all enjoy a lengthy holiday.
During this period, the box office of cinemas, will also welcome a massive explosive outbreak!
Can be said to be an important holiday that any movie wouldn't let slip by.
Nohara Hiroshi actually intended to put 'Hachiko Monogatari' to screen in this Golden Week?!
This is simply... too crazy!
"Hiroshi-kun, you... are you certain?" Asumi's voice carried a trace of excitement: "The competition of Golden Week, is extremely fierce! When the time comes, there will be countless Hollywood blockbusters, countless local movies, that will all choose to screen in this Golden Week! Our 'Hachiko Monogatari', can it withstand the pressure?"
He knew, although the box office potential of Golden Week was massive, but the competition was also exceptionally cruel.
A slight carelessness, and it would be submerged in the torrent of the box office.
"Deputy Director Asumi, you worry too much." Nohara Hiroshi merely peacefully smiled, within those clear eyes, not a single ripple arose: "Since I dare to choose Golden Week, it explains, I have absolute confidence towards 'Hachiko Monogatari'."
He paused, his gaze casting towards Asumi, eyes full of confident light: "Moreover, I believe, in this Golden Week, a movie capable of competing with 'Hachiko Monogatari', fundamentally doesn't exist!"
His words, were resounding and forceful, every single word, was full of power.
Asumi looking at that young and confident face of Nohara Hiroshi, all the worries and doubts in his heart, all vanished into thin air at this moment.
He knew, what Nohara Hiroshi said was right.
This young man, he has never disappointed them.
"Good! Hiroshi-kun!" Asumi fiercely slammed the table, tone becoming impassioned: "Since you are so confident, then I shall fully support you! Golden Week! We will exactly put 'Hachiko Monogatari', to screen in Golden Week!"
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Nohara Hiroshi, eyes full of expectations: "I rather want to see, you this time, what kind of miracle you can bring us again!"
Nohara Hiroshi merely smilingly nodded: "Deputy Director Asumi, I will not let you guys down."
......
Very quickly, following TV Tokyo's arrangements, right in front of Tokyo City's Shibuya Station, a new statue quietly stood up.
That was a statue of an old man and a naive and charming Akita Inu.
The statue was cast in bronze, having experienced wind and rain, glowing with a quaint luster, yet also revealing an indescribable warmth.
It quietly stood in a corner of the station, as if silently narrating a distant and touching story.
At first, this statue only attracted the curiosity of some passersby.
"Yi? When did this statue go up?" An office worker carrying a briefcase, hurrying on his way stopped in his tracks, doubtfully sizing it up.
"Seems to only be here recently right? Didn't see it before." The female colleague beside him also leaned over, eyes carrying a few degrees of novelty: "An old man, and a dog? What story is this?"
"Looking at this dog's appearance, it should be an Akita Inu right? Naive and charming, quite cute." A young female student scratched her head: "However, why put up this kind of statue at Shibuya Station?"
"Do you not know?" Beside them an older looking housewife, face carrying a trace of understanding, smilingly said: "I heard my neighbor say ah, this is TV Tokyo's Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi, specially set up for his new movie 'Hachiko Monogatari'. Heard the movie exactly talks about the story of this Akita Inu and its master!"
"Nohara Hiroshi?!" The female student's eyes instantly lit up, "Is it that Department Manager Nohara who filmed 'Yamishibai', 'Tales of the Unusual', and 'Kasou Taishou'? He is actually going to film a movie about a dog?!"
"Yeah, exactly him!" The housewife nodded, tone carrying a few degrees of supreme praise towards Nohara Hiroshi: "I heard ah, this movie talks about an Akita Inu, after its master passed away, still everyday rain or shine, the touching story of waiting at the station for its master's return. Aiya, just listening to it, I feel like shedding tears."
"Wa! Sounds super touching ah!" The female student excitedly said, "Movies filmed by Department Manager Nohara, I definitely have to go watch! I am his fan!"
"Yeah, Department Manager Nohara is truly a genius ah!" Another passing middle-aged "ojisan" also stopped his tracks, joining the discussion: "The 'Kasou Taishou' he filmed, those two brats at my house guard the television watching it every day! And 'Tales of the Unusual', every episode all makes one horrified, yet also having endless aftertastes! The movies he films, will absolutely not be bad!"
"However, using a dog to narrate loyalty, this creativity is also too special right?" The female colleague somewhat doubtfully said: "Doesn't our Nippon have a lot of stories of samurai loyalty? Why must it be a dog?"
"This you don't understand right." The middle-aged "ojisan" shook his head, on his face floated a meaningful smile: "Department Manager Nohara he ah, isn't an ordinary person. Him filming movies, has never taken the usual path. He definitely has his reasons."
"Yeah." The housewife also followed chiming in: "I heard my neighbor say, Department Manager Nohara in an interview said, human loyalty, will always be mixed with too many interests, too many schemes. While the loyalty of a dog, yet is pure, selfless. He wants to use the purity of a dog, to awaken deep in our human hearts, that loyalty that has long been forgotten."
"Wa! This profound?!" The female student's eyes widened even bigger, face written full of surprise and admiration: "Department Manager Nohara sure enough is a genius ah! Even filming a movie about a dog, can ascend to a philosophical height!"
"Therefore ah, you these young people, have to learn more from Department Manager Nohara!" The middle-aged "ojisan" earnestly said: "He doesn't only have talent, even more has an overarching outlook, has thoughts! He is the one truly capable of representing our Nippon culture, walking towards the world!"
For a time, in front of Shibuya Station, the discussions regarding the Hachiko statue, regarding Nohara Hiroshi, regarding 'Hachiko Monogatari' rose one after another, like a tide, spreading in the crowds.
Very quickly, many newspaper offices and newspapers in Tokyo Metropolis, the entertainment sections also following the arrival of TV Tokyo's lubrication fees, began to massively promote the movie 'Hachiko Monogatari', as well as Nohara Hiroshi's innovative cross-genre new movie.
Tokyo Daily Entertainment Section Headline: [Nohara Hiroshi Once Again Creates a Miracle! 'Hachiko Monogatari': A Loyalty Epic Surpassing Life and Death!]
"Succeeding 'Seven Samurai' deconstructing the era and class with its majestic atmosphere, Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi once again with a touching work 'Hachiko Monogatari' shocks the industry. This film boldly utilized the Akita Inu as the core narrative carrier, through ten years of waiting of a dog towards its master, profoundly exploring the philosophical propositions of 'loyalty' and 'human nature'. Film critic Kurokawa Kazuya lavishly praised: 'Nohara Hiroshi's camera lens, is always capable of penetrating pomp, directly reaching the soul. He uses the most plain emotions, knocking at the longing towards pure connections deep in the hearts of modern urbanites. This isn't only an animal's epic, it is even more an allegory of human nature.' This film is expected to screen in Golden Week, hopeful to once again set off a box office frenzy."
Nippon Economic Newspaper Culture Commentary Section: [From Samurai Spirit to Dog's Loyalty: Nohara Hiroshi's Cultural Symbol Construction Path]
"Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi, this young man hailed as a 'cultural monster', once again displayed his astonishing cultural insight. In traditional concepts, the loyalty of samurai is viewed as the symbol of the Nippon spirit, while 'Hachiko Monogatari' yet projected this concept onto an Akita Inu. Cultural scholar Dr. Sato Kengo pointed out: 'This move seemingly departs from the classics and rebels against orthodoxy (unconventional), but in reality is supremely brilliant. In modern society, human loyalty is complicated by the entanglement of interests, while the unconditional loyalty of dogs exactly can awaken people's longing towards pure emotions. Nohara Hiroshi exactly is using a 'saving the nation by a curve' method, reshaping the citizens' cognition towards traditional virtues. His precise grasp towards national psychology, makes people marvel.' "
Weekly Bunshun Special Report: ['Hachiko Monogatari': A Movie Capable of Making Hearts of Stone Shed Tears!]
"Movie Auditing Committee passed with full votes, multiple committee members shed tears in the screening room, even having a senior committee member suggest evaluating 'Hachiko Monogatari' as the Best Film of the year. We have reason to believe, this movie will become this year's most tear-jerking, and also most socially influential work. Famous relationship expert Watanabe Mayu commented: 'Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi once again proved his extraordinary mastery towards emotional narratives. The fetters between Hachiko and the professor in the movie, will trigger the entire society's profound introspection towards family, friendship, romance and even the relationship between humans and nature. It will be the warmest ray of light in this indifferent era.' "
Tokyo Daily Entertainment Section Headline:
['Hachiko Monogatari' Scheduled for Golden Week! Nohara Hiroshi Creates New Chapter, Can the Touching Masterpiece Re-continue the Box Office Myth of 'Seven Samurai'?]
[Our Paper Reports] Succeeding 'Seven Samurai' wildly raking in six billion yen box office, and hopeful to impact the eight billion yen major threshold, the merely twenty-three year old TV Tokyo Production Bureau Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi, once again bringing his latest masterpiece 'Hachiko Monogatari' strongly staging an attack, scheduled for Golden Week! It's reported, this movie will talk about a story of loyalty surpassing life and death between an Akita Inu and humans, triggering a high degree of attention inside and outside the industry.
Famous film critic Tanaka Kenta: "Nohara Hiroshi's talent, already doesn't need to be stated further. The grand narrative and profound connotations of 'Seven Samurai', had already pushed him to the altar of the Nippon movie circle. And now, he chose 'Hachiko Monogatari' this kind of touching topic, seemingly bold, but in reality even more displays his mastery over cinematic arts. He dares directly face the longing towards loyalty and familial affection deep in the citizens' hearts, using the purest emotions, to touch the softest souls. I predict, this will be a tear-jerking masterpiece sufficient to go down in the annals of history, its box office appeal could even surpass 'Seven Samurai', becoming a phenomenal cultural event!"
Nihon University Sociology Professor Sato Ichiro: "Right in the present era where materials are abundant yet spirit is deficient, the connections between people are increasingly alienated. Nohara Hiroshi's 'Kasou Taishou' has already successfully awakened the citizens' longing towards family warmth and interpersonal interactions. While 'Hachiko Monogatari', is even more elevating this kind of emotion. Through ten years of waiting of an Akita Inu, it will redefine the meaning of 'loyalty', guiding citizens to reflect on the lack of emotions in modern society. This isn't only a movie, it's even more a profound baptism towards the national spirit."
Senior editor Nakamura Shuichi of Kinema Junpo: "Nohara Hiroshi, a genius incapable of being surmised with common reasoning. His works, are always capable of using the most unique perspectives, the most precise entry points, triggering the heated discussions of the entire society. From the urban legends of 'Yamishibai', to the brain-burning suspense of 'Tales of the Unusual', to the epic landscape of 'Seven Samurai', his every attempt, all subverted our imagination. Now, he once again crossed boundaries, challenging a touching topic, its profound meaning is absolutely not as simple as the surface. I anticipate how he will use the story of a dog, to deconstruct human nature, to sublimate emotion, to create new cultural symbols!"
Yomiuri Shimbun Entertainment Supplement:
[Crossover Ghost Talent Nohara Hiroshi, Using a "Dog" to Narrate Loyalty, Leading the New Trend of Nippon Culture.]
[Special Correspondent Report] When everyone thought Nohara Hiroshi would continue to deeply plow the samurai genre, he yet unexpectedly announced the plan for a new movie 'Hachiko Monogatari'. This touching movie taking the Akita Inu as the protagonist, initially triggered some controversies, but following Nohara Hiroshi's profound interpretation towards the concept of "loyalty", as well as the active promotion of the official entities, currently has already become the most anticipated film in all of Nippon.
Industry Observation:
"Nohara Hiroshi's innovation, lies in that he can always excavate the most profound philosophical principles from the most ordinary things." An industry insider unwilling to disclose his name expressed, "He elevated the loyalty of a dog, to the height of leading the national character, this in itself is an artistic breakthrough. More importantly, he successfully seamlessly blended the government's cultural promotion intent, into the movie creation, realizing the win-win of commercial value and social benefits. This kind of ability, within the Nippon movie circle, and even the entire Asian movie circle, is absolutely unique."
Asahi Shimbun Culture Section:
[Shibuya Station New Landmark: Hachiko Statue Completed, Foreshadowing 'Hachiko Monogatari' Will Become the Era's Imprint.]
[Culture Commentary] Recently, in front of Tokyo Shibuya Station, a statue portraying an old man and an Akita Inu was quietly completed. This isn't only a new landmark for Shibuya, it is even more a powerful proof of Nohara Hiroshi's new work 'Hachiko Monogatari' being hot before screening. This movie not only obtained the personal attention of Tokyo Governor Koike Ryuichi Excellency, it is even more placed high hopes by the promotion department, aiming to through Hachiko's story, carry forward the "loyalty" spirit of the Nippon nation. We can foresee, 'Hachiko Monogatari' won't only be a movie, it will even more become a cultural imprint of the era, profoundly influential.
For a time, the newspapers, magazines, television programs of the entire Nippon, all began to be attracted by the two names Nohara Hiroshi and 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
Public opinion began to be comprehensively hyped, from cinematic arts to social significance, from Nohara Hiroshi's talent to the loyalty of the Akita Inu, all sorts of topics continuously emerged.
Very quickly, following TV Tokyo's arrangements, the onlookers around the Hachiko statue at Shibuya Station were already in a continuous stream, discussions rising in overlapping waves.
"Aiya, this is that statue ah? It is indeed quite exquisite, especially that Akita Inu, actually isn't ferocious, and even has a... docile and adorkably silly feeling." A young white-collar worker wearing a well-fitting suit, carrying a briefcase stopped his tracks, curiously sizing it up.
The colleague beside him also leaned over, covering her mouth lightly laughing: "Look, how cute this dog is! Chubby, eyes even twinkling brightly."
"Yeah, however the story inside this, exactly how does it unfold? A dog and loyalty? And an old man who passed away early on? I don't get it." The young white-collar worker scratched his head, face carrying doubts.
An elderly commuter, with graying hair, wearing a traditional kimono, at this moment also paused in front of the statue, he looked at the statue, a trace of understanding flashing in his eyes: "This should be the statue from that 'Hachiko Monogatari' right? I heard, Department Manager Nohara is filming a movie about an Akita Inu, talking exactly about the story of an old man and a dog. The dog's master passed away, and then the dog constantly waited, this is loyalty and familial affection surpassing humanity, just thinking about it makes one teary-eyed."
"Is it like that?" The young white-collar worker's eyes instantly lit up, face written full of surprise.
The colleague also followed exclaiming: "Wa! If it's waiting, then it's definitely a touching movie. However since it's filmed by Department Manager Nohara Hiroshi, then there's no problem! He is my idol! His 'Kasou Taishou' I watch every episode, funny and touching!"
"Yeah." The elderly commuter nodded, tone carrying a trace of emotional sighing: "I saw on the newspaper saying, this movie talks about an Akita Inu, after its master passed away, still everyday rain or shine awaiting its master's return at Shibuya Station. Just listening to it makes one's heart ache ah."
"Oh my god, just listening to it makes me feel so touched!" The colleague's eyes had already welled up with tears: "Department Manager Nohara is best at filming this kind of stories that directly hit people's hearts! His 'Tales of the Unusual' had quite a few episodes that scared me into crying, but also had many episodes that made me cry a mess."
"Yeah, Department Manager Nohara is truly a genius ah! I've watched his 'Seven Samurai' three times, and every time I can see new things from it!" The young white-collar worker also followed praising, "Didn't expect he also intends to film this kind of touching genre movie, truly makes people anticipate ah!"
A female university student currently waiting for a train, carrying a backpack, hearing their conversation, also couldn't help but lean over: "Are you guys talking about Nohara Hiroshi's 'Hachiko Monogatari'? I already heard about it! Our school is discussing it like crazy! Everyone says, this movie definitely will become this year's tear-jerking masterpiece!"
The male classmate beside her also followed chiming in: "Yeah! Nohara Hiroshi is an idol for our younger generation ah! His manga 'YuYu Hakusho' simply boils blood, extremely explosive! 'Doraemon' is cute and lovely, simply a childhood memory! 'Midnight Diner' is warm and healing, after watching it every time makes it feel like one's appetite is wide open!"
"He is simply an all-around genius!" The female university student excitedly said, "Movies, TV dramas, variety shows, mangas, he is profusely skilled in every sort, moreover every single work is capable of triggering massive social responses!"
"Yeah, even Governor Excellency personally called his name praising his works!" The elderly commuter supplemented, face written full of pride: "I heard, this 'Hachiko Monogatari', even the government promotion department has placed high hopes on it, hoping it can lead the national character, embodying the Nippon spirit."
"Wa! Really?!" The young white-collar worker and the female colleague were both stunned, they never thought, a movie actually could be elevated to such a high political level.
"Of course it's real." The elderly commuter nodded, "Therefore ah, this statue, is definitely also established to coordinate with the movie promotion. Department Manager Nohara, he is truly... too bold and charismatic!"
......
Instantly, many people in the entire Nippon, also began to be attracted by Nohara Hiroshi's 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
Public opinion began to be hyped up.
From the southern Kyushu Island, to the northern Hokkaido, regardless if it's bustling streets of cities, or quiet small towns of the countryside, the after-tea and post-meal times of people, all added the same topic —— Nohara Hiroshi's 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
"Have you heard? Nohara Hiroshi's new movie, is talking about the story of a dog! Furthermore that Akita Inu, even foreigners are praising it!"
"Yeah! I've long known! My daughter pesters me every day, making me take her to go watch it! She said that Akita Inu is super cute! But clearly it's only screening in Golden Week, now I see my daughter's expectant appearance and feel very strained."
"I instead feel, Nohara Hiroshi is truly a genius! He can always film some movies, that makes people after watching it, feel warm in their hearts, and a bit wanting to cry."
"Heard even Governor Excellency praised him! This movie definitely will have massive popularity! Moreover even Americans are praising the Akita Inu called Hachiko!"
"Yeah! I have to book tickets in advance! Otherwise when the time comes definitely won't be able to snatch a good seat! I instead want to see what's the deal with the Akita Inu that even the American ghosts submit to!"
"Did you see what those experts said on the newspapers? They all say this movie will surpass 'Seven Samurai'!"
"Really?! Then that is too amazing! The box office of 'Seven Samurai' has already broken seven billion, and is still heading towards eight billion, or even breaking through ten billion ah!"
"Nohara Hiroshi, he is simply the pride of our Nippon! The movies, TV dramas he filmed, the mangas he drew, are all too great! Now even Americans are won over under his talent! Truly too great!"
"I even feel, he is the one truly capable of representing our Nippon culture, walking towards the world, conquering America!"
Public opinion like a prairie fire, swiftly spread out.
Television, radio, newspapers, magazines, even the idle chat on streets and alleys, was all full of anticipation towards 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
People anticipated this movie, anticipated being moved, being shocked by Nohara Hiroshi's works once again. They anticipated, in the holiday of Golden Week, being able to walk into the cinema together with family, to go feel that pure love and loyalty.
Nohara Hiroshi's name, also therefore once again resounded across Nippon, becoming a household name, a highly anticipated cultural symbol.
His works, his talent, his influence, were all at an unprecedented speed, continuously expanding, continuously sublimating.
And this, was merely the beginning.
......
Time passed another month, arriving in early April, Tokyo's cherry blossoms finally bloomed, an faint floral fragrance permeating the air.
In the small meeting room of TV Tokyo's Production Bureau, Nohara Hiroshi, Asumi and Takada Toshihide three people sat around a round table.
"Hiroshi-kun, Executive Director Takada, you guys are truly... too amazing!" Asumi took the lead in breaking the silence, his face overflowing with an open and bright smile, tone full of irrepressible excitement: "The public opinion heat of 'Hachiko Monogatari', in this period of time got hyped higher and higher! Now almost the entire Nippon, are all discussing this movie, all discussing the Akita Inu!"
He paused, his tone becoming even more mysterious: "Moreover, the most unexpected thing is, there is news from overseas transmitted over, saying many American newspapers and television stations, are now also broadcasting topics related to the Akita Inu. They are all reports about how intelligent, how loyal the Akita Inu is etcetera, making many Nippon people very astonished!"
Takada Toshihide also nodded, on his face that was always gloomy, at this moment also surfaced a trace of imperceptible smugness: "Yeah, what Asumi-kun said is right. Under the fueling of TV Tokyo, especially the American media, the topic regarding the Akita Inu being an excellent dog breed, has also begun to comprehensively spread out in Nippon's public opinion circles."
He picked up a teacup, gently taking a sip, tone full of confidence: "Now, many experts and television stations, have also begun to echo, that the Akita Inu is a superior dog breed, intelligent and moreover loyal. The strength of this kind of promotion, is unprecedented! The self-confidence of the citizens, are all being propped up!"
Nohara Hiroshi's face carried a faint smile.
"It ought to be like this." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and firm: "Through the affirmation of foreign media, to elevate the citizens' sense of identity towards their own country's culture, this is the most effective 'saving the nation by a curve'. Moreover, I also understand, the citizens now towards the Akita Inu, towards the 'Hachiko Monogatari' I filmed, have also begun to be truly interested."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Asumi and Takada Toshihide, eyes full of expectations: "Everything, just waits for the Golden Week at the end of April and beginning of May, for the movie to officially screen."
Asumi and Takada Toshihide nodded, faces overflowing with infinite longing towards the future. They knew, this plan of Nohara Hiroshi, had already succeeded by half.
However, right when they were still discussing, the meeting room door was gently pushed open.
Bureau Chief Sakata Nobuhiko, stepping with unhurried paces walked in. He wore a set of dark-colored kimono, tailored to fit, meticulous in every detail, between his brows revealing a majesty that wasn't angry yet authoritative.
The three people hastily got up, deeply bowing towards Sakata Nobuhiko.
"Bureau Chief Sakata!"
"En." Sakata Nobuhiko merely indifferently responded a sound, his gaze sweeping over the three people, in those astute eyes, flashing a trace of imperceptible scrutiny.
He slowly walked to the main seat sitting down, and then, casting a gaze towards Asumi and Takada Toshihide, that majesty without anger expression on his face, at this moment yet became somewhat... stiff/formal.
"This time the promotion of 'Hachiko Monogatari', is whose handiwork?" Sakata Nobuhiko's voice was peaceful and powerful, yet carrying a trace of unquestionable majesty: "Actually even knows how to mobilize foreign media to add fuel to the flames? This kind of promotion train of thought, isn't something ordinary people can think of."
Asumi and Takada Toshihide upon hearing this, faces all floated a bit of an embarrassed expression. They mutually exchanged glances, and couldn't really say anything.
After all, this plan was brought up by Nohara Hiroshi, they were only responsible for executing.
Moreover, these words of Bureau Chief Sakata, sounded like investigating, but deep in his tone, yet hid a trace of imperceptible... probing.
Nohara Hiroshi merely peacefully smiled, that composure and confidence, made him at this moment appear exceptionally prominent.
He knew, this was the time for him to display "shoulder the responsibility".
"Bureau Chief Sakata, I arranged it." Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and firm, without the slightest shirking.
Sakata Nobuhiko upon hearing this, that stiff/formal expression on his face, instantly dissipated. What replaced it, was a kind of sincere appreciation and... marveling.
He looked at Nohara Hiroshi, in those astute eyes, flashing a resplendent light like the stars.
"Okay! What a 'Promotional Ghost Talent (Genius)'!" Sakata Nobuhiko couldn't help but strike the table in admiration, tone full of undisguised praise: "This kind of promotion train of thought, is indeed interesting! Worthy of being you ah, Hiroshi-kun! You can always bring us pleasant surprises!"
He paused, his tone becoming even more impassioned: "Moreover, I'll tell you, currently the topics discussing the Akita Inu, discussing your 'Hachiko Monogatari' in Tokyo Metropolis, have an extremely massive reaction in the social sphere! Even Governor Excellency personally called me, praising your promotion was done well!"
Nohara Hiroshi, Asumi, Takada Toshihide three people upon hearing this, all revealed satisfied smiles.
Extreme reaction, doesn't it exactly represent the promotion was very good?
Sakata Nobuhiko looking at the delighted appearances of the three people, a happy smile also overflowed on his face.
He knew, this plan of Nohara Hiroshi, had already succeeded by half.
"Right, Hiroshi-kun." Sakata Nobuhiko suddenly remembered something, finding his gaze casting towards Nohara Hiroshi, tone carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate mystery: "Governor Koike is very satisfied towards your promotion this time. He even said after a while, he wants to cooperate with you, bringing the filming team of 'Hachiko Monogatari', to carry out commercial and political promotion activities."
"What?!"
Asumi and Takada Toshihide's eyes instantly widened, faces written full of unbelievable shock!
They blankly looked at Sakata Nobuhiko, in their minds a patch of chaos.
Governor Koike's election campaign, actually intends to pull Hiroshi along?!
This... this is simply an unprecedented supreme glory ah!
This isn't only the affirmation towards Nohara Hiroshi's personal abilities, it is even more the massive recognition towards his political influence!
This represents that, Nohara Hiroshi, has already from a simple cultural creator, stepping by step walked towards the center of the political stage!
On Nohara Hiroshi's face, also floated a faint smile.
He knew, the opportunity he had been waiting for, finally arrived.
In the elections of Nippon, as long as one is able to get involved, not only can they help the candidate obtain a massive amount of votes, furthermore oneself can also get a lot of promotion opportunities.
Including the 'Hachiko Monogatari' that hadn't even screened, yet had already been hyped up.
Now, if able to unite with that Governor Koike, and borrow another wave of east wind.
Then the promotional strength will absolutely surge fiercely.
After all a movie that even the Tokyo Governor Excellency likes, an Akita Inu that he likes, can that not trigger everyone's curiosity?
Regarding politics, Nohara Hiroshi currently doesn't intend to get involved.
But borrowing political promotion for his own movie's guts, his is definitely huge!
(End of Chapter)