The Tiger and Her Wings:Theatrical version production confirmed! Torako 'Sairi Ito is in the final case

It was revealed on January 28th that " The Tiger and Her Wings Tsubasa," the NHK Asadora drama starring Sairi Ito that will air in the first half of 2024, will be adapted into a movie. This will be the first time an NHK morning drama has been adapted into a movie in 27 years, since "Suzuran" (1999), which had a side story about her childhood, and it will be the first time in the history of Asadora that the main cast will be reprising their roles.

"The Tiger and Her Wings" is an original story based on the life of Yoshiko Mibuchi (1914-1984), Japan's first female lawyer and later a judge. It depicts the heroine Torako, played by Ito, and her companions carving out a pathless path in difficult times, rescuing lost children and desperate women. A spin-off drama, "Yamada Todoroki Law Office," featuring popular characters Yamada Yone (Shiori Doi) and Todoroki Taichi (played by Junki Tozuka), will also air in March of this year.

The film version is a completely original story, with new episodes that could not be fully depicted in the TV drama, and the story unfolds on a grand scale spanning time. Torako will also take on her "final case."

Ito burst with joy, saying, "I'm so happy to be able to live as Tora-chan again." Continuing to write the script for the drama, Erika Yoshida expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "Entertainment can be a place to be close to someone, and it can give someone the strength to speak out. I believe it can become a drop of rain that breaks down the problems that lie within society." Yoshiro Kayakawa, who served as chief director for the drama and will be the director of the film, also revealed that he and Ito have always discussed the meaning of Torako's line, "Hate," which she always utters, saying, "This word should not be used to condemn others, but should be a call to stop and think together." He added, "I hope this film will become that 'Hate' and reach everyone."

: The theatrical version of "The Tiger and Her Wings" is scheduled for release in 2027.

◇Comment from lead actress Sairi Ito

I am so happy that I will be able to live as Tora-chan again. This time it will be a completely original story, but as it will be the last case that Torako will take on, I am really looking forward to filling in the gaps that were not fully depicted in the drama.

Just like when I was filming the Asadora, I would like to carefully act in the script, which is filled with Yoshida's humor, love, sharp perspective and prayer, while discussing my interpretations and thoughts with director Kayakawa.

◇ Comment from scriptwriter Erika Yoshida

When I heard about the film adaptation, the first thing that surged within me was a heartfelt joy: "I don't have to say goodbye to Torako yet!" With the amazing cast including Ito-san and the amazing staff including Kayagawa-san and Ozaki-san, I'm thrilled to be able to weave a new story about Torako, not just as a Asadora but also as a spin-off and film... The best can be renewed in unexpected ways. All of this is thanks to everyone who enjoyed and supported the series.

In a world where life is becoming more difficult with each passing day, and peace and equality are becoming more distant, entertainment has no immediate effect, and what it can do is insignificant, close to nothing. But entertainment can become a place to be close to someone, and the strength to help someone speak up. I believe it can become a drop of rain that breaks down the problems that lie within society. The release is still a little ways off, but please look forward to "The Tiger and Her Wings Spinoff: Yamada Todoroki Law Office," scheduled to air in March, and continue to support the series! I'm sure you'll enjoy the story that follows Torako and her friends!

◇Comment from Director Yoshiro Kayakawa

We are once again embarking on a journey with Torako and her friends. This is all thanks to everyone who watched and supported the drama, and to the cast and staff who worked with us to create it. I would like to express my gratitude. Just as in the drama, we will steadily and carefully follow the joys, sorrows, anger, and happiness of Torako, her family, and friends. I am excited to see what kind of expressions we will see on these beloved characters.

While making the drama , Sairi Ito and I constantly discussed the meaning of the line Torako always utters, "Hate." This word shouldn't be used to condemn others, but rather as a call to stop and think together. I hope this film will be that kind of "Hate" and reach everyone. New cast and staff members have also come together for the film. Please support us as we embark on this new journey together.