#Japan #Tokyo #Urban Legends #FOD SHORT #Yuki Sakurai

FOD SHORT's Latest Offering: A Haunting New Drama

Japan's popular entertainment channel, Fuji TV, has just released an intriguing new short drama exclusively on its vertical video app, FOD SHORT. Titled Trying Solo Hide and Seek in a Haunted Hospital, the series made its debut on July 24, 2023, promising to deliver both chills and excitement to viewers seeking something different.

A New Kind of Short Drama Experience

FOD SHORT sets itself apart with its unique concept of delivering impactful stories in bite-sized episodes, each approximately one minute long. This vertical short drama format has been optimized for mobile viewing, allowing viewers to enjoy engaging stories during their daily commutes, breaks, or whenever they have a spare moment. What's more, five episodes are released for free every day, offering audiences a chance to easily immerse themselves in captivating narratives.

The show revolves around the urban legend of Solo Hide and Seek, commonly referenced in Japanese folklore alongside other well-known legends such as 'Kokkuri-san' and 'The Slit-Mouthed Woman'. This new drama creatively challenges viewers by depicting the eerie premise of this urban legend: what if you actually tried it in real life?

Filmed in a Real Haunted Hospital

One of the most striking features of this drama is its setting—entirely filmed in an abandoned hospital, which adds to the authenticity and spine-chilling atmosphere of the narrative. The unsettling ambiance of the real-life location heightens the tension and emotional impact of the story, immersing viewers deeper into the world of urban myths and supernatural occurrences.

The narrative follows the story of a struggling video content creator, Hiragi (played by Yuki Sakurai), who takes extreme measures to escalate his social media presence. He sneaks into the haunted hospital at midnight for a live stream, where he faces inexplicable phenomena and terrifying encounters, including a doll possessed by a spirit that threatens his safety. The show masterfully crafts an immersive experience that draws the viewer into a world filled with suspense and surprises.

Talented Cast and Crew

Leading the series is Yuki Sakurai, a talented actor who joined EXILE Troupe in 2022 and has starred in successful projects like Blue Lock and April's Tokyo. In his role as Hiragi, he portrays a character driven by desperation, heightening the drama's intensity. Making his drama debut, Jalen Suzuki plays the role of Ryūnori, impressing audiences with his unique flair and comedic timing.

Alongside them is an ensemble cast including Yuki Kamiasako as Seira, known for her compelling performances in films such as Kandagawa's Lovers. The series also features the popular urban legend expert, Shuhei Shimada, who plays a pivotal role in guiding viewers through this eerie setting.

Renowned director Yoshiki Uematsu, known for his expertise in horror, skillfully balances suspense with entertainment, promising a thrilling ride that captivates audiences until the end. The blend of genuine scares with insightful storytelling is expected to make this series a standout in Japanese horror.

What the Cast Says

The cast has shared their excitement about the project, with Sakurai commenting on the authentic experience of filming in a real haunted location, enhancing the drama's realism. Suzuki expressed his gratitude for being part of the collaborative effort that brought the story to life, reflecting on his role as a crucial part of the production. Kamiasako, on her part, admitted her fear of horror but found joy in the creative process.

Shimada added that scary stories scientifically lower body temperature, implying that viewers might find Trying Solo Hide and Seek in a Haunted Hospital a cool escape during the sweltering summer heat, offering a refreshing way to enjoy the season dramatically.

Access FOD SHORT Today

The Trying Solo Hide and Seek in a Haunted Hospital drama is now available for streaming for fans of horror and short-form storytelling. With episodes released daily, viewers can easily catch up and delve into the mysterious world of urban legends.

For those interested in watching this captivating new series or exploring more content, the FOD SHORT app is available for both Android and iOS platforms and offers a vast array of short dramas, including international hits. Experience a new kind of drama designed specifically for the contemporary viewer with FOD SHORT.

Additional Information

• - Title: Trying Solo Hide and Seek in a Haunted Hospital (全60話)
• - Premiere Date: July 24, 2023
• - Main Cast: Yuki Sakurai, Jalen Suzuki, Yuki Kamiasako, Shuhei Shimada, among others.
• - Director: Yoshiki Uematsu
• - URL for Streaming: FOD SHORT

Explore the thrilling world of Japanese horror today with this unforgettable new series that promises to leave its mark in the hearts of viewers as 'a short drama that stays long in memory.'