The first episode of the Nippon Television drama series "Punch-Drunk Woman: XX Days Left Until Escape" (Sundays at 10:30 PM), starring actress Shinohara Ryoko, aired on January 11th. The episode featured the death row inmate Hiroyasu Yoroizuka, former leader of the cult "Mawari no Hikari," who is currently working at Hikawa Detention Center, where female prison guard Fuyuki Kozue (played by Shinohara) works. Kawachi Yamato, who plays the role, has been gaining attention on social media.
◇The following contains spoilers.
In the first episode, Kozue, a prison guard who serves as the head of the "Women's Ward" of Hikawa Detention Center, an area where only women are held, is always disciplined, calm, collected, does not interfere with others, is not swayed by emotions, and carries out her duties honestly. All of this is to maintain order within the closed walls. She should have lived a strict life, both towards others and herself.
One day, Kusaka Reiji (Jesse) is transferred in on suspicion of murdering his own father. Kozue gasps at the familiar face. The prison guards keep a close eye on Reiji, who intimidates those around him with his sharp gaze. Kozue tries to hide her agitation and maintain a resolute attitude, but Reiji causes one problem after another, which seems to unsettle Kozue's mind... and so the story unfolds.
Reiji hears rumors about a death row inmate in the detention center from Azuki Tsutomu (Director Yasuda), a model prisoner and sanitation officer. Yoroizuka, the former leader of the cult "Mawari no Hikari," was sentenced to death for murder five years ago, when many of his followers committed mass suicide. As Yoroizuka awaits execution in a solitary confinement cell, he is under guard by prison guards and security guards, and no one can get close. Later, Reiji causes a disturbance and is put in the punishment cell. He speaks to Yoroizuka, who is in a solitary confinement cell on the floor below, through the air vent, asking, "Are you planning to escape?"
Kawachi's role as Yoroizuka, who gained attention for his eccentric performances in the TBS Sunday Theatre "VIVANT" and the film "Exit 8," became a hot topic on social media. Comments included, "He's perfect for the role of a religious leader," "He's the guy from Exit 8," "Guru Yoroizuka is so scary," "His appearance gives him an outstanding worldview," and "He's perfect for the role of a religious leader."
