It was revealed on March 3rd that actor Tori Matsuzaka will star in the 2027 NHK Taiga drama "Gyakuzoku no Bakushin." Why was Matsuzaka chosen to play the lead role of the Shogunate vassal Oguri Tadamasa? Natsuko Katsuta, production manager, revealed this at a press conference held at the station in Shibuya, Tokyo on the same day.
The protagonist, Shogunate vassal Oguri Kozukenosuke Tadamasa, was said to be a rival of Katsu Kaishu. He was Japan's first envoy to the United States, experienced the civilization of a new era, and was a genius of the Edo Shogunate who designed a new shape for the country. However, he was labeled a "traitor" by the new Meiji government and buried in the darkness of history, depicting the unknown exploits of this Shogunate vassal in this thrilling, heartwarming entertainment. The script was written by Naoko Adachi, who is known for her work on the TV drama "What Did You Eat Yesterday?" and the TV drama series "Okaeri Mone."
Katsuta has worked with Matsuzaka in the TV drama series "Umechan Sensei" (2012) and the historical drama "Gunshi Kanbei" (2014), among others.
"Of course, his acting ability and personality are great, but he also accurately grasps the aim of the work, such as 'Why are you doing this?'" he says, describing Matsuzaka's appeal.
Katsuta, who says that the end of the Edo period and the present day are "similar," said, "In modern times, many values are crumbling, and war and violence are right around the corner. I thought that looking back on Oguri's life would become a very powerful memory for us living in the present. (Matsuzaka) deeply understands these feelings, so it's very reassuring to work with him."
She added, "He has the same nobility and dignity (as Oguri), and the sense of security that he's definitely not a bad person. I have high expectations for his acting ability."
