#Japan #Tokyo #UCC Coffee #Mt. Fuji #JO1

UCC Coffee Academy Enhances Film Experience

The UCC Group's Toranomon location of Ueshima Coffee has emerged as a filming site for the eagerly anticipated movie, Mt. Fuji, Coffee, and the Equation of Happiness, set to debut on October 24. Starring JO1's Iori Mamehara and Yoshie Ichige, the film's narrative intertwines coffee culture with compelling storytelling, showcasing the relationship between Mamehara's character, Takuma, and his grandmother while emphasizing their shared connection through coffee.

Notably, the UCC Coffee Academy is stepping in to provide vital support during the production. The Academy, recognized for its expertise in coffee knowledge and techniques, ensures that the film authentically represents coffee artistry. In particular, the Academy's instructors are training Mamehara on the nuanced skills of coffee extraction—teaching him everything from the ideal grind size to the proper brewing techniques, alongside prepping the equipment for on-screen use.

A captivating behind-the-scenes video released on October 8 offers fans a glimpse of Mamehara's diligent coffee-brewing scenes, as well as instructional moments with Academy instructor Masaya Kawasaki. The world of coffee can be intricate, but thanks to UCC's professionals, Mamehara's on-screen presence as a detail-oriented barista is sure to shine.

UCC Coffee Academy's Role in the Film

Founded in 2007, the UCC Coffee Academy was designed to encapsulate the profound knowledge and skills accumulated through the UCC Group's operations. With campuses in Kobe and Tokyo and an extensive online presence, the Academy serves a diverse array of individuals, having welcomed approximately 190,000 students as of late 2024.

In the film, Mamehara takes on the role of Takuma, a gentle university student working at Ueshima Coffee's Toranomon branch. The Academy's instructors, including Hayakawa and Kawasaki, have dedicated themselves to refining the protagonist’s performance by providing in-depth training on the technical aspects of coffee-making. Their guidance ranges from advising on brewing methods to the arrangement of coffee-making tools for filming. Mamehara himself has expressed his gratitude for the expert support, indicating that without the instructors, he wouldn't have been able to step into his role convincingly.

Director Kenji Nakanishi echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that the coffee expertise lent to the film enriched the overall experience, allowing audiences to appreciate coffee culture more deeply.

Meet the Instructors of UCC Coffee Academy

Masaya Kawasaki

Having joined UCC Group in 1993, Masaya Kawasaki transitioned from a long-term sales role to becoming a prominent instructor when the Tokyo campus opened in 2015. He oversees multiple courses and has extensive qualifications as a Coffee Advisor and Brewing Specialist, contributing integral knowledge to the film's production. His commitment to coffee education showcases UCC’s ethos of nurturing both passion and expertise.

His reflections on working with Mamehara highlighted the collaborative spirit of creating the film while shedding light on the beauty of coffee brewing techniques.

Hisashi Hayakawa

Entering UCC in 2007, Hisashi Hayakawa quickly distinguished himself by earning challenging qualifications, including the Coffee Grader and Trainer certifications. His experience and passion for coffee brewing make him an invaluable asset in guiding Mamehara’s portrayal of Takuma.

Hayakawa fondly recalls Mamehara's enthusiasm and genuine engagement with the coffee-making process, making their collaboration an inspiring experience.

Discovering Coffee Through Film

The core of Mt. Fuji, Coffee, and the Equation of Happiness revolves around familial relationships, aspirations, and the enchantment of coffee. As Takuma navigates his journey, influenced by his grandmother and immersed in coffee culture, audiences are invited to explore similar connections. The film prompts reflections on dreams—both attained and pursued—while enriching the viewer's understanding of coffee's significance in daily life.

To those inspired by the cinematic portrayal of coffee, UCC Coffee Academy welcomes new students eager to learn about the world of coffee art.

For more information on UCC Coffee Academy's programs visit UCC Coffee Academy and uncover the delights of coffee that await you.