#Japan #Tokyo #Ora2 #Premium Series #Stains

Ora²'s Premium Series New CM Launch

On January 16, 2026, the well-known brand Ora², recognized for its excellence in whitening toothpaste, will premiere its latest commercial titled "The Enemy of Whiteness." This new advertisement highlights the ongoing battle against stains, cleverly represented by the character trio known as the "Stain Brothers". Alongside this catchy jingle, the ad delivers a memorable message that reinforces the idea: "The enemy of whiteness is stains."

The Storyline

In the new CM, we are introduced to the "Stain Brothers," anthropomorphized characters who tempt viewers with drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine that often lead to staining. Despite these alluring offers, the young actress, Mizuki Nagasawa, demonstrates how using Ora²'s Stain Clear toothpaste can help maintain the natural whiteness and shine of her teeth, ultimately allowing her to smile with confidence.

Nagasawa, a rising star in the acting world, is driven by the direction of the renowned Hidetaka Kuroda, whose previous works have left a significant impact on the commercial landscape. The music and visuals reflect a harmonious blend of creativity and fun, intending to engage audiences while effectively communicating the brand's message.

The CM is presented in both 15-second and 30-second formats and is set to air across various channels nationwide. For a sneak peek, viewers can visit: 15-second version and 30-second version.

Behind the Scenes

The filming process was an adventure. The first day was dedicated to simulating acting between Mizuki Nagasawa and the three dancers portraying the Stain Brothers. Known for her adept instincts, Nagasawa seemed to animate the space, acting as if the stain characters were backstage with her.

The following day was marked by the creation of intricate movements performed by the dancer trio, which were meticulously choreographed. Each puppet required six people to operate, taking nearly an hour for each scene involving the three characters across ten different scenes. The CM features a classic stop-motion technique where slowly filmed puppeteers were seamlessly edited to create smooth transitions that result in a unique and delightful viewing experience.

Insights from Director Hidetaka Kuroda

Kuroda comments on the interplay between Nagasawa and the Stain Brothers, emphasizing the importance of making the protagonist standout amid a contrast with the wooden-headed characters. He designed the characters to embody both the enemy and the challenge, establishing a clear message that resonates during the climax of the song. Inspired by the works of influential artist Osamu Tezuka, Kuroda's vision aims to express a unique identity through original visuals and music. A touch of Tim Burton-style creativity further enhances the CM's whimsical charm.

Mizuki Nagasawa's Thoughts

For Nagasawa, the experience was nothing short of enthralling. "The character designs and the catchy music made the CM highly engaging. Shooting in such a captivating universe felt like a dream. The new approach to representing 'stains as enemies' was refreshing, and I would encourage everyone to pay attention to the dancers’ intricate movements that brought the puppets to life. Ora² Premium acts like a gentle push for special occasions, instilling a sense of pride post-use. There were unexpected moments of expressions and movements during filming that left me astonished, and I am grateful for the supportive crew. I hope this commercial further conveys the appeal of Ora² to a wider audience!"

About Ora² and Sunstar Group

Ora² aims to provide consumers with oral beauty care products that align with modern values while enhancing the joy of everyday life. It is a part of the Sunstar Group, which oversees a wide array of consumer products from oral care to health and beauty solutions. With a mission to connect oral health with overall well-being, Sunstar focuses on extending the healthy lifespan of individuals, enhancing their quality of life through effective oral care practices.

For more information about the products, visit the Ora² website.