#Japan #Tokyo #FOD #Nikotama #Watanabe Peko

FOD Original Drama 'Nikotama'

On December 26, 2023, at 8 PM, FOD and Prime Video will premiere the original drama 'Nikotama.' Derived from the popular manga by Watanabe Peko, this adaptation promises to deliver a refreshing take on the complexities of love and relationships in contemporary Japan.

The series will be available to watch weekly every Friday at 8 PM, starting with the first two episodes. Alongside this highly anticipated release, FOD will showcase making-of footage, giving fans a glimpse of the creative journey behind the series.

A Unique Love Story

'Nikotama' explores themes of love, marriage, and family through the lens of everyday life, challenging the conventional notions of relationships. Starring Ai Hashimoto and Kohei Seto in leading roles, the story revolves around their characters—Atsuko and Kohei—who have navigated a comfortable relationship over the last twelve years. Yet, the status quo is threatened as their lives intertwine with that of Yuko Takano, portrayed by Higa Manami, creating a tangled web of emotions and conflicts that peel back the layers of their seemingly perfect lives.

Spanning various seasons and everyday moments, the series captures the bittersweet reality of romance while striving to address the notion of 'no correct answer' in love. The cast also features a stellar lineup of talent including Honami Sato, Jin Suzuki, Kurumi Shimizu, Nagiko Tsuji, Shori Kondo, Katsumi Takahashi, and many more.

Recently announced were five new cast members who are set to join the ensemble, enhancing the narrative further. Masaki Kaji, Junki Totsuka, Sei Matobu, Kou Maehara, and Hono Tamura from Sakurazaka46 will each bring their unique talents to the show.

New Cast Additions and Their Roles

• - Masaki Kaji will portray Kenji Nakanishi, who works at an adult video production company and brings a complex layer to the plot by seeking patent consultation at Kohei's workplace.
• - Junki Totsuka takes on the role of Tatsu Takatsu, a former colleague of Atsuko's, further complicating the relationship dynamics.
• - Sei Matobu plays Dr. Muramatsu, Atsuko's attending physician, adding both charm and drama to the mix.
• - Kou Maehara is cast as Tomo Ikuta, a lawyer and a confidante to Kohei, offering him guidance amid his dilemmas.
• - Hono Tamura, bringing her idol charm from Sakurazaka46, plays Hazuki Kamimura, who encounters Kohei during a social gathering, providing a fresh perspective on love.

Episode Highlights

Episode 1: 'Eggs, Gummies, and Squid'

Atsuko and Kohei, content in their long-term cohabitation, unexpectedly begin to question their relationship after a night out leads Atsuko to reconsider her views on marriage and family. Meanwhile, Kohei notices something amiss with Yuko, setting the stage for emotional revelations to follow.

Episode 2: 'Broad Beans and Udon'

As Yuko reveals a significant piece of information to Kohei, he struggles to process it, leading to feelings of distance from Atsuko. The episode delves deeper into the confusion of expectations around love and family commitments.

Behind-the-Scenes Content

Fans can also look forward to exclusive behind-the-scenes content on FOD, including a short version of the making-of video, which will be released simultaneously with the show. Viewers can catch insights from the cast about their roles, the filming atmosphere, and what to expect from this intriguing narrative.

Drama Details

• - Title: 'Nikotama' (8 episodes total)
• - Streaming Start: December 26, 2023, at 8 PM on FOD and Prime Video
• - Music: The theme song 'oh my baby' by Quruli adds an emotional depth to the series.
• - Production Team: Directed by Natsuki Seta and Keijiro Tsubakimoto, and produced by Socket under Fuji TV's supervision.

For more details, check out FOD's official page or the drama's official website.

Get ready for 'Nikotama'—a show that promises to resonate deeply with its audience as it navigates through the intricacies of love and relationships in today's world.