Hitoshi One and Netflix: A Cinematic Partnership
Netflix, the global streaming giant, has recently deepened its ties with renowned Japanese director Hitoshi One. This collaboration was announced on Monday, indicating a five-year exclusive contract with the director. One’s latest project, “Tokyo Swindlers,” gained international acclaim during the summer. As per the contract, Netflix will have exclusive rights to produce and distribute all of One’s films and series for the next five years.
Success of “Tokyo Swindlers”
“Tokyo Swindlers” made its Netflix debut in July and quickly climbed the charts to be among the platform’s global top 10 non-English TV shows for five consecutive weeks. The series was particularly successful in Japan, a market that Netflix has been actively pursuing. It claimed the No.1 spot for all TV series in Japan for six consecutive weeks.
Hitoshi One’s Creative Genius
Kaata Sakamoto, Netflix’s head of content in Japan, praised Hitoshi One’s creative prowess. Sakamoto described “Tokyo Swindlers” as a thrilling narrative with uniquely intriguing characters, all brimming with humanity.
About “Tokyo Swindlers”
“Tokyo Swindlers” is a flamboyant heist saga that revolves around a group of real estate con artists, including stars like Go Ayano, Etsushi Toyokawa, and Kazuki Kitamura. The plot thickens as they attempt their biggest heist after discovering a lucrative property worth 10 billion yen.
Hitoshi One’s Notable Career
One made his directorial debut in 2011 with a film adaptation of the bestselling manga, “Moteki.” The film was well-received and earned him the “Most Popular Title” award at the 35th Japan Academy Awards. His career highlights also include the hit coming-of-age comedy “Bakuman,” which won the best director prize at the 39th Japan Academy Awards. On television, he won the grand prize at Japan’s 60th Galaxy Awards for the 2020 Fuji TV drama “Elpis: Hope or Disaster.”
Netflix’s Proposal to Hitoshi One
Two weeks after “Tokyo Swindlers” began streaming, One received an exclusive contract proposal from Netflix. The director was surprised by his swift response but acknowledged his interest in the distribution medium, a genre not as established as film and TV dramas.
One further shared his positive experience working with the Netflix team on “Tokyo Swindlers.” He was impressed with their high level of filmmaking awareness and the creative environment they provided, which was unlike anything he had experienced in films or TV dramas. He expressed his excitement about the upcoming projects he will create with Netflix.
Netflix’s Expansion in Japan
Over the past few years, Netflix has been steadily expanding its Japanese live-action content, moving beyond the popular anime category that initially dominated its local content in Tokyo. Alongside “Tokyo Swindlers,” other successful Netflix titles from Japan this year include action hits “City Hunter” and “House of Ninjas,” as well as the reality series “The Boyfriend.” The upcoming romance series “Beyond Goodbye,” inspired by a true story experienced by Netflix executive producer Makiko Okano, will premiere next month at the Busan International Film Festival.
Conclusion
Netflix’s exclusive contract with Hitoshi One signifies a promising future for Japanese content on the platform. With the success of “Tokyo Swindlers” and the anticipation of future projects, it’s clear that this partnership will continue to bring unique and compelling stories to global audiences.
FAQs
Who is Hitoshi One?
Hitoshi One is a renowned Japanese director known for his film adaptations of popular manga and his unique storytelling style.
What is “Tokyo Swindlers” about?
“Tokyo Swindlers” is a flamboyant heist saga revolving around a group of real estate con artists attempting their biggest heist after discovering a lucrative property.
What does the exclusive contract between Netflix and Hitoshi One entail?
The contract grants Netflix exclusive rights to produce and distribute all of Hitoshi One’s films and series for the next five years.
Credit: www.hollywoodreporter.com
