Lee Jun-young is making waves in the entertainment industry by crossing borders from Korean dramas to Japanese cinema. The actor is set to make his entry in the Japanese entertainment industry with a pivotal role as the lead character’s first love in Tokyo Taxi, marking a significant milestone in his career and showcasing the growing cultural exchange between Korea and Japan.
Table of Contents
Tokyo Taxi Film Details
| Film Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Yoji Yamada (91st film) |
| Lead Actor | Takuya Kimura (Koji Usami) |
| Supporting Cast | Chieko Baisho, Yuu Aoi |
| Korean Star | Lee Jun-young (First Love) |
| Studio | Shochiku |
| Genre | Human Drama |
| Based On | French film “Une Belle Course” (2022) |
| Setting | Tokyo’s evolving landscape |
Lee Jun-young’s Character and Role
Playing the First Love
Lee Jun-young will appear with a pivotal role as the lead character’s first love in Tokyo Taxi, bringing emotional depth to this touching human drama. His casting was kept under wraps, with the announcement coming only after he had completed filming, creating a pleasant surprise for fans.
Career-Defining Moment
Lee Jun-young is set to make his big screen debut in Japan, representing a significant expansion of his acting portfolio. Known for his role alongside IU in the Netflix series “You Have Done Well,” this Japanese debut opens new doors for international collaboration.
The Star-Studded Cast
Takuya Kimura’s Leading Role
Koji Usami (Takuya Kimura) drives a taxi to make a living. One day, he is asked to take 85 year old Sumire Takano (Chieko Baisho) from Shibamata, Tokyo to an elderly care facility in Hayama, Kanagawa Prefecture. This journey becomes the central narrative of the film.
Veteran Ensemble
The film features legendary actress Chieko Baisho as the elderly passenger and Yuu Aoi in supporting roles, creating a multi-generational cast that spans different eras of Japanese cinema.
Director Yoji Yamada’s Vision
Master Filmmaker’s Latest Work
Actor Lee JunYoung (UKISS Jun) will make his Japanese screen debut in the 91st new film by Japanese film master director Yamada Yoji. This milestone film represents decades of cinematic excellence from one of Japan’s most respected directors.
Thematic Depth
Tokyo Taxi is a touching human drama based on the popular 2022 French film ‘Une Belle Course’. Set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s evolving landscape, it explores themes of life’s regrets, making it more than just a simple road trip story.
Cultural Bridge Between Korea and Japan
Breaking Entertainment Barriers
Lee Jun-young’s casting represents the growing collaboration between Korean and Japanese entertainment industries. His transition from K-drama star to Japanese cinema demonstrates the universal appeal of talented performers across cultural boundaries.
International Recognition
Upcoming features in the market include the latest from Sho Miyake, Yoji Yamada and Joe Odagiri, indicating that Tokyo Taxi is among the highly anticipated Japanese films in international markets.
The Story Behind Tokyo Taxi
Heartwarming Journey
On the way, Sumire Takano asks Koji Usami to make some stops and she gradually opens up to him. She starts to tell him about her past. This simple premise becomes a profound exploration of human connection and life’s precious moments.
Tokyo as a Character
Director Yoji Yamada, who has long depicted people living in Japan, tells a moving story that celebrates the joys of life in the ever-changing metropolis of Tokyo. The city itself becomes an integral part of the storytelling.
What This Means for Lee Jun-young’s Career
Strategic Career Move
This Japanese debut positions Lee Jun-young as a truly international actor, expanding his reach beyond Korean audiences. His ability to work in Japanese cinema demonstrates his versatility and ambition as a performer.
Future Opportunities
Success in Japanese cinema could open doors to other international projects, potentially making Lee Jun-young a bridge between Asian entertainment markets and global audiences.
Stay updated with the latest Korean entertainment news and international collaborations at TechnoSports for comprehensive coverage of K-drama stars and their global projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What role does Lee Jun-young play in Tokyo Taxi?
A: Lee Jun-young plays the pivotal role of the lead character’s first love in Tokyo Taxi. His casting was kept secret during filming, with the announcement coming only after he completed his scenes. This marks his Japanese cinema debut in director Yoji Yamada’s 91st film, alongside stars like Takuya Kimura and Chieko Baisho.
Q: What is Tokyo Taxi about and when will it be released?
A: Tokyo Taxi is a touching human drama based on the 2022 French film “Une Belle Course.” The story follows taxi driver Koji Usami (Takuya Kimura) who takes 85-year-old Sumire Takano (Chieko Baisho) from Tokyo to a care facility, during which she shares stories from her past. The film explores themes of life’s regrets and human connection against Tokyo’s evolving landscape, though the exact release date hasn’t been announced yet.
