#Japan #Tokyo #The Fifth Step #Jack Lowden #Martin Freeman

National Theatre Live's 'The Fifth Step'

The highly anticipated theatrical adaptation of David Ireland's play, "The Fifth Step", is set to make its grand premiere on March 20. Starring acclaimed actors Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman, this production is part of the National Theatre Live series, which captures remarkable stage performances with innovative camera angles for global audiences.

Currently, audiences are enjoying another NTLive production, "Hamlet", which is still showing at TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku. Following this success, the upcoming release of "The Fifth Step" is generating excitement as the fourth new work in the 2025-2026 season.

The plot revolves around James, played by Martin Freeman, who has struggled with alcohol dependency and is engaged in a rehabilitation program known as the "12 Steps". As James becomes the mentor to newcomer Luca (Jack Lowden), their journey unfolds into a compelling tale of dark comedy. In a tension-filled 80 minutes, the duo showcases their exceptional acting talent, drawing audiences into a dramatic and gripping dialogue exchange that feels incredibly engaging.

In anticipation of the film's release, the official trailer has been released, showcasing the exhilarating intensity and strong chemistry between the two protagonists on stage. Viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions as the story progresses.

Screening Locations

"The Fifth Step" will be available for viewing in various locations across Japan from March 20, including:

• - Tokyo: TOHO Cinemas Hibiya
• - Kanagawa: TOHO Cinemas Lalaport Yokohama
• - Hokkaido: Sapporo Cinema Frontier
• - Nagoya: Midland Square Cinema
• - Osaka: Osaka Station City Cinema
• - Kumamoto: Kumamoto Piccadilly
• - Kagoshima: Gardens Cinema (limited screenings on March 20 and 29)

About the Play

• - Writer: David Ireland
• - Director: Fin Den Hertog
• - Cast: Jack Lowden (known for his roles in "War & Peace" and "Dunkirk"), Martin Freeman (famous for "SHERLOCK" and "FARGO")

Story Synopsis

The plot deepens as James, who has been part of the 12-step program for many years, takes on the role of advisor to the new participant, Luca. Over cups of black coffee, they begin to forge a fragile yet warm friendship, sharing stories from their pasts. However, as Luca approaches “the 5th Step” – the moment of making amends and confessing past mistakes – a dangerous truth threatens to unravel the trust between them.

Runtime

The total running time is approximately 83 minutes, offering a concentrated dose of emotional highs and lows.

In addition, the ongoing NTLive production of "Hamlet" at TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku will celebrate an extended run with a special second talk event on March 7. This event will feature discussions after the screening of the play, further enriching the experience for the audience.

Event Details:

• - Date: March 7
• - Time: 10:00 AM, following the screening of "Hamlet"
• - Location: TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku
• - Guest Speakers: Kazuko Matsuoka and Shoko Kashiwagi

Tickets for the talk event are available for purchase on the TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku website.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of "The Fifth Step" this March!