Love Not Comedy (2026) Movie Script
Easier to handle than I expected.
How about cutting off a few chunks of
flesh and naming our price?
Or should we send two or three fingers
with the ransom note?
Seiya...
You bastard!
If you wanna die, bring it on!
What a mess.
What the hell is going on?!
Are you all right?
You really came back...
Yes.
I thought we'd never see each other again.
From now on, I don't want to stand by you
as your butler...
I want to stay by your side as your lover.
That's what I truly wish for.
Cut!
OK!
No, no, no, Reiji, that was amazing!
In that kiss scene, you made it look like
no one else existed in your eyes.
All right, all right.
You really know what you're doing.
You're the Prince of Rom-Coms, after all.
The hand placement, the angle of your
face...
Absolutely flawless.
You're laying it on way too thick.
Looking forward to working with you next
time, too.
(I'm filming today. It'll be tough, but
I'll do my best!)
(I kept my lips safe and kept my promise.)
What do you mean, no kissing scenes?
With that little commitment, how can you
call yourself an actor?
Come on, she's only an idol-actor in her
second TV drama.
Anyway, your next job is...
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Another rom-com?
Yep, a rom-com.
Are you kidding me?!
Haven't I told you? I'm done with
rom-coms.
I'm turning thirty.
Do I still have to play a fresh-faced
idol?
But that just means everyone still wants
to see you in rom-coms.
Right?
Besides, the original was written by the
god of romance stories,
Ms. Kinako Hashitani.
And the producer, Ms. Asami Shuto, has
looked after you since your debut.
It's also your 23rd starring TV dramaa
milestone!
Twenty-three?
That's worth celebrating?
Ow, that hurts.
Another idol-actor...
Will this be another embarrassing
pretty-boy role for me?
Uh, if I remember correctly, last time...
(A life no one can understand)
(Noticing that secret gaze)
(A moody glass, maybe, lady)
(Just as you start to want it)
(It doesn't seem like a joke)
(Sense my presencelisten)
(It's too late to pretend not to notice)
(An emotional misstep)
(Have you noticed?)
(Love me tonight)
(Midnight, just for you)
(The moon is beautiful, you know, baby)
(I want a kiss we can't avoid)
(A love that breaks the rules)
(On this sacred night)
(Love me tonight)
(Yeah, love me tonight)
(Love me tonight)
(Oh, yeah)
(Love me tonight)
That's seriously amazing.
Good work.
But lately, Minamikaze's been focusing on
acting in TV dramas and movies.
Everyone says she's a promising young
actress.
At the end of the day, she's just trying
to land commercials by acting.
Good work.
Just appearing in a TV drama will boost
your fame.
Good work.
I want to take acting seriously and go all
the way.
Sorry, Sorry
Since we're all doing the same kind of
work
I don't want to be lumped together with
people who treat acting like a side gig.
What?
Didn't I give you that at the beginning of
the year?
My career plan as an actor from now on.
Oh, I read it.
I really did read it.
I've starred in 23 productions since my
debut.
And what do I have to show for it?
I'm a nationally acclaimed actor, yet I've
never won a single award.
I want to win an award!
So what are you going to do about it?
Well, if you want to win an award...
That face of yours is practically
cheating.
But look at this.
Japan's most dazzling facehandsome from
every angle, 360 degrees.
A huge hit!
It really is.
But all you ever praise is my face.
Listen.
Even if I keep starring in these cheap
rom-coms,
no one will ever consider me a first-rate
actor.
So this time, let me star in something
with real substance!
All right.
Yeah.
All right.
Okay, let's get tonight's show started.
Kanzaki Reiji's Saturday Night Japan.
How was everyone's week?
Let's start, as always, with our very own
Marilyn.
Good evening, Mr. Kanzaki Reiji.
Good evening.
I'm a huge fan of your romantic comedies,
Mr. Reiji.
Marilyn.
This week's episode of Butler Love was
wonderful, too.
Every week, it makes my heart race and
recharges my tired body and soul.
It gives me so much energy.
Your rom-coms are what keep me going, Mr.
Reiji.
I can't wait for next week's episode.
Thank you for always supporting me,
Marilyn.
'What keeps me going,' huh?
That's the Prince of Rom-Coms for you.
You're exaggerating.
Hey, we can air this one again, right?
Oh, it's Misato Minamikaze again.
She's really getting better and better
lately.
As an actress, I mean.
As an actress, I want to make it big
nationwide.
What kind of actress is she? She's just a
sparkly idol.
Look here, look.
In Proof of the Duel, he's playing the
lead.
Mr. Yamamura?
Yes, him.
Mr. Yamamura has also agreed to make a
special appearance.
Seriously?
This is a great chance to learn from one
of Japan's top actors.
Oh, so you're doing another rom-com?
Yeah, and Mr. Yamamura will have a special
appearance in it, too.
It's already confirmed.
Mr. Yamamura? The world-famous Yamamura?
That's right.
Look at you, kid.
Yeah, I want to learn from himnot just
acting, but how he commands a set, too.
I'll learn as much as I can.
Mr. Yamamura's really in your drama, too?
Yeah. Why?
I heard he's making a special appearance
in mine, too.
In my Sunday-night drama.
What are you doing next?
A Sunday-night drama called Proof of the
Duel.
They're remaking that?
Yeah.
Don't tell me you're the lead?
Uh, yeah, but it hasn't been officially
announced yet.
You're starring in a Sunday-night drama at
your age?
That's pretty incredible.
Is Mr. Yamamura appearing in two Sunday
dramas at once?
Wait a second. Don't tell me...
What?
Wasn't there another actor whose name was
really similar to his?
He's fairly well-known, but somehow he's
always just a little short of the mark.
What was his name again?
It's Yamamura Kenji, right?
Isn't it rude to say he's 'just a little
short of the mark'?
Not 'Kenichi'...
Don't tell me you're that
'just-short-of-the-mark' guy, too?
I've been had!
Why did it have to be Kenji?!
It's Kenji, not Kenichi!
Damn it!
Okay, okay, I get it. Just calm down.
Why? Why does that guy get to star in a
Sunday-night drama?
While I'm stuck doing rom-coms!
What's so bad about that? You're handsome
and you have work.
Hey, handsome!
Right?
Shut up!
Looks and hype alone won't get you far in
this industry!
Without honing your skills, you'll never
be a real actorjust disposable.
Reiji!
I'm off.
Please welcome Best Actor winner Sma
Fuchigami to give his speech.
Please give us your acceptance speech.
I'm a complete acting fanatic. I can't do
anything but act.
I'll devote my life to this acting career
and make sure I'm worthy of this award.
Reiji!
Wake up!
Wait, what's going on?
The lead's late to the first table read!
We're all meeting for the first time!
What's the big deal?
Showing up at the last second is what a
leading man does.
You jerk!
I'm Here, I'm Here. Got it.
Ms. Shuto, sorry I'm late.
Not a problem. Someone else is even later
than you.
I look forward to working with you.
Likewise. Let's do our best.
What a pain.
I've really been looking forward to seeing
what you can do.
Sure, sure.
Feels good, doesn't it?
It feels great.
Reiji, I've got the whole crew lined up
for you.
Same familiar faces as always.
Mr. Kanzaki, I'm Misato Minamikaze.
It's a pleasure to work with you.
Likewise.
So?
What?
Ms. Hashitani is here.
They all made their names with
Sunday-night dramas.
One after another.
Komaru, Seichan, Tomokun.
Good to see you. Thanks for your hard
work.
Now that everyone's here...
Let's begin the table read for Wall Slam!
Floor Slam! You're the One!
Thank you all for being here.
But before we begin, there's something
very important I need to tell you.
Every single line written in the script...
must remain exactly as it is. Not one word
may be changed.
Unfortunately, some actors...
Some actors change line endings or
improvise on the spot,
just doing whatever they feel like.
That's an insult to the art of
screenwriting.
Sorry, but we really can't change even a
single word?
You!
Wait a moment.
Once actors have completely immersed
themselves in a role,
some words may come naturally only in that
very moment.
Excuse me.
To write just one line of dialogue,
I refine every line daily, sometimes
pouring my life into the script.
Do you really think that compared with the
lines I've poured my heart into writing,
something you make up on the spot is more
valuable?
That's not what I meant...
Do you understand?
Actors should act according to the script,
and the crew should film according to the
script.
That's what professionals do.
If you're not a professional, leave.
There are plenty of people who can replace
you.
Um, sensei, I understand what you're
saying.
Of course the script is important.
Right, Misato-chan?
Right, Reiji-kun.
Don't drag me into this.
You're absolutely right, sensei.
Then let's start the read-through right
away.
Let's begin.
All right, let's start.
Stick to the script, okay?
Yes, we'll follow the script exactly.
I'll read it according to the stage
directions in the script.
Please do.
All right, starting with Shinichi, exactly
as written.
Okay.
Satoko, don't add anything extra, all
right?
Absolutely no improvising.
Okay.
Thank you, everyone.
When Momiji entered the living room, Akito
was standing there.
It's that suspicious guy from earlier!
Who's a suspicious guy?
Why are you here?
I'm the one who should be asking you that.
You're trespassing.
This is my house.
No, this is my grandmother's house.
Aren't you the one trespassing?
You suspicious guy.
Stop calling me that.
Have you got the wrong idea about
something?
I'm not mistaken.
This hallway still smells of wood.
That curry stain on the wall...
and that huge scorch mark to the left of
the stove.
This mark...
was left when I accidentally broke my
grandmother's most treasured vase.
That's what happened.
This place holds so many memories of my
grandmother and me.
I'm not mistaken.
This is my grandmother's house.
I never imagined you were the president of
our company.
Why hide your identity from your
employees?
I can't help it. With a face like this,
it'd be a real problem if women fell for
me.
I only inherited the company from my
father.
To put it bluntly, it's a sham company,
and there are plenty of enemies inside it.
Hey, what are you doing?
Mr. Akito, why don't you try it, too?
It feels great.
I'm not a child.
Wait.
If you have nowhere to stay, you can stay
here.
But...
Let's live together.
Okay.
But in exchange, you can forget about
paying rent.
Don't push your luck, idiot.
Okay!
That's a wrap.
All right, thank you.
Wow, that was fantastic.
Let's keep this up and work hard together
for the next four months.
That concludes today's table read.
Thank you for your hard work, everyone.
Good work, everyone.
I look forward to working with you.
You completely became Momiji just now.
Thank you very much.
This girl is something else.
She really made me see her in a new light.
I'm going to rewrite the script starting
from episode two.
What? You're going to rewrite it?
Come on, sensei, you're joking, right?
But the official shooting schedule starts
tomorrow. It's already set.
That's right. I've nearly finalized
everything on my end, too.
Beautifully done.
Mr. Kanzaki, thank you for your hard work.
Good work.
Mr. Kanzaki, that was your first time
reading the script here today, wasn't it?
Of course not.
Honestly, you were really handsome.
What?
And...
Just as I thought.
You reek of alcohol.
You weren't even planning to take the role
seriously, were you?
You're making it look like you were cast
just because of your face.
You!
That's enough.
I only really get into the role after the
table read. That's when I start for real.
Got it?
Don't think you've won.
Wait, calm down.
And that final scene...
at the pace you used just now,
it would become your scene, not mine.
Also, after this part, you paused too
long.
I was the one who was supposed to pause
there.
Listen.
I'm the lead, and Akito is the focus of
this scene.
Time's up.
What?
I have a variety show to record.
Excuse me.
Ms. Morita, let's go.
Sorry about that.
What's that guy's problem?!
Don't get so worked up.
Good work.
Misato-chan, you did great just now.
She didn't look at the script even once,
did she?
I will never lose!
LOVE COMEDY
Good morning.
The scene at the family home, where Momiji
comes through the door...
We planned to track her from behind. Could
we use a drone?
No. Renting a drone is too expensive.
Use a handheld camera, then. Make the shot
clean and sharp.
How far are you planning to cut the
budget?
Forget it, Mr. Matsuyama. Better not get
your hopes up.
This isn't a Sunday-night drama or a
streaming production.
And another thing, everyone: on this set,
'spending money' is a forbidden phrase.
Because any extra spending has to be
reported up the chain.
Exactly. No extra expenses, period.
Let's start by testing the camera
positions.
Come on, let's make the picture sparkle!
Hup, hup, hup, hup, hup, hupthere we go!
That's a wrap on the TV drama Rainbow
High!
Great work, everyone!
Good work!
Even the director's crying!
Eight years ago, I was the lead, and that
guy was only seventh in the billing.
Oh!
Reiji!
Oh!
Long time no see!
How have you been?
Pretty good.
I'm starting filming here today, too.
I know.
Hey, you start filming today, too, right?
Yeah.
By the way, what's the title...?
Hey, hey!
I have to get going.
Well, let's both do our best.
Hey, wait!
Hey!
Good morning.
Go on, introduce yourself.
Oh, right.
I'm Misato Minamikaze.
Misato-chan?
Nice to meet you.
I see you in commercials all the time.
Strawberry Revive.
Thank you.
Just you wait.
What?
Well?
How about using it as the theme song for
this drama?
No way...
I can't understand a word of what you're
singing.
What?
Who would be able to sing this at karaoke?
Huh?
It's my song.
Of course I'm the one who should sing it.
This song is supposed to be a TV drama
theme song.
It should be more emotional, catchier, and
suit the world of a rom-com.
But then it'd just turn into another
full-on idol song.
I'm almost thirty.
Excuse me.
What?
What's wrong?
Have you seen Ms. Minamikaze?
No, I haven't.
You saw her?
You haven't even looked, have you?
I've searched everywhere, but I still
can't find her.
Did you really look properly?
Yeah, I did.
Then go look again.
Why?
Oh, there she is.
She definitely wasn't here a moment ago.
All right, go look again.
Sorry about that.
Okay, okay.
Ms. Shuto, I'm sorry.
Sorry, Mr. Sekine.
All right, all right.
Why are these things arranged here?
Do they have some special meaning?
These?
Little Momiji said she wanted to buy them
on a trip,
as a souvenir for her grandmother.
Oh, Momiji loves traveling, doesn't she?
Right?
Then what does this painting mean?
Oh, you noticed that, too.
We're about to go through the next steps.
Can we talk about it later?
What's that stuck on here?
W-wait a second.
You're really going all in with the
questions on your first day, aren't you?
Mr. Sekine's about ready to get fed up
with all your questions.
Am I causing you trouble?
No, no, not at all.
To understand a role, you should study the
sets and props.
Wow. No wonder you're a first-rate actor.
You're on another level.
What?
Did you just scoff at me?
No. Think whatever you like.
Good work.
Mr. Reiji.
Hm?
I just checked the set for the next scene.
Don't you think the lighting is a little
too bright?
It's this time of day in the scene, so we
brightened it up.
But wouldn't that make it harder
to convey how down Momiji is feeling?
Well... that's what the director asked
for.
Would it be okay if I talked to Director
Nihei?
Come here for a second.
What is it?
Leave the lighting and shadows to the
lighting crew and the director.
It's not something actors should interfere
with.
Why not?
We're all working together to make the
production, aren't we?
I think we should communicate properly.
Keep this up and people will think you're
a nuisance.
Eventually, you'll stop getting work
altogether.
I just want to make this production
better.
Mr. Reiji, the director's here.
Pyon Pyon Fruits have arrived!
What is her problem?
Ugh, I just want to go home.
What's wrong?
The shooting conditions are already
shabby, and they keep slashing the budget.
And she has no idea how things work.
Can't you see that?
Yeah, Sunday-night dramas really have it
good.
They have money to burn.
Actually, watching Proof of the Duel is
what made me want to join this industry.
Seriously?
I know this might sound bad to say to you,
Mr. Reiji,
but this time, I really want to work on
that production.
Exactly.
Oh, Mr. Reiji, this is for you.
See you at eight tonight!
Oh, thank you.
Mr. Kanzaki, this is for you.
Oh, thanks.
Mr. Takei, this is for you.
Oh, thank you.
Mr. Sekine, here's one for you, too.
Here you go. One, twothank you.
Oh, Ms. Annie, here's one for you, too.
Misato-chan remembered every single crew
member's name.
She's such a good girl.
Her family must have raised her well.
Really?
Oh, Mr. Hiroi, this is for you.
Thanks.
Actually, I'm a die-hard fan of Pyon Pyon
Fruits.
My favorite is the strawberry member, Ms.
Misato Minamikaze.
I'm so happy.
Then I'll give you two.
Really?
Awesome!
Oh, Mr. Hiroi, there's something else I
wanted to ask you.
Why are we filming Scene 36 before Scene
35?
Oh, ask Mr. Takami, the scheduler, about
that.
Mr. Takami, about the next scene...
why aren't we shooting in script order?
This way is faster,
and we don't have to readjust the
lighting.
But for this particular scene, wouldn't
shooting in order
better reflect how Akito and Momiji are
feeling?
Mr. Takami?
Do you think you need to teach me that?
I'm not an amateur.
If we go overtime, the budget becomes a
problem.
So we have to compromise for the sake of
the budget?
Who do you think you are?
All right, all right, Mr. Takami.
You're just an idol. Don't act like you're
already a professional actor!
Okay, okay.
Good work.
They've decided on the theme song for Wall
Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
What?
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
That's so clich.
Keep the choreography simple, too.
Make it simple enough for kindergarteners
to sing and dance at sports day.
That's a special request from Ms. Shuto.
But seriously, is this overly obvious
style really the right choice?
Oh, right!
Ms. Minamikaze!
Her first day was incredible!
Not a single retake, and she looked
completely at ease.
But that girl really is a handful.
She's so driven that she's overdoing it a
little.
She's making it hard for the crew to keep
up, too.
Speaking of which, those variety shows
Reiji turned down to focus on filming...
she's appearing on all of them in your
place now.
She already has idol work and ten
commercials; her schedule was packed.
Now she doesn't have a free moment at all.
I feel kind of bad about it.
Let's listen to it again.
I heard your family runs a strawberry
farm.
Yes, with my mother and older brother.
I grew up with a single mom and became an
idol to make life easier for her.
I see. That's admirable.
You've started acting lately, and I hear
your drama will air soon.
Yes.
Mr. Reiji Kanzaki is the star. He plays
Akito, a capable company president.
I play Momiji, an ordinary girl who
unexpectedly ends up living with him.
And that's where the story begins.
It's a romantic comedy that will make
everyone's heart flutter.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
airs next Tuesday, the 13th, at 9 p.m.
Please be sure to watch.
Everyone, you have to watch it, too!
Hey, Mr. Konno.
This is wonderful.
Reiji-kun finally agreed to appear on
Mansei.
All right, all right.
He's the lead, of course he has to appear.
Easy for you to say.
All right, all right.
Oh, Mr. Kanzaki.
Thank you for joining us today.
Sure. Thank you for having me.
Actually, there's something very important
I want to ask both of you.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Are you serious?
Of course!
I want this move to become the drama's
official gesture and a nationwide craze.
So I'm counting on you both.
Give it everything you've got on the live
show.
Reiji: I'm afraid I can't.
Misato: Leave it to me!
Wait, really?
Misato-chan, thank you!
I'll do my best!
Yeah.
I'm not doing it.
Mm-hm.
I'm not doing it.
Nope.
Why won't you do that move from earlier?
Who could do something that embarrassing?
If it helps the production, I think we
should do it.
Why do you always push yourself so hard?
I'm the star of this drama, and I'm the
one responsible for its ratings.
I just don't want people to get the wrong
idea.
I don't want them to think that because
I'm an idol...
...acting is just something I do on the
side.
If I want to be recognized as an actor,
I think I have to put my all into
everything I can do.
Besides, my mom once told me...
Here you go.
Hm? More sweet strawberries?
This is a very special strawberry, too.
Every year, so many strawberries grow.
They may all look the same, but each
one...
...is unique and irreplaceable, born just
that once.
That's why we have to treasure them.
I think our drama is the same way.
There are so many productions in this
world,
but this one is made by usthe cast and
crewworking together.
Shouldn't we treasure it, then?
Are you even listening?
I am listening.
But don't compare a production to
strawberries.
Excuse Me.
A production or a strawberryboth deserve
to be treasured.
Sorry.
Next, let's hear a few words from our
lead, Mr. Kanzaki.
Okay.
I think this drama will remind people how
wonderful love is,
and maybe make them want to fall in love
again.
Please tune in tonight at nine.
Ready, one, two! Wall Slam! Floor Slam!
You're the One!
That's amazing!
Be sure to watch!
Please don't miss it!
Okay, okay, okay!
Thank you, everyone.
Good work.
There's no way something like that will
catch on.
You think so?
It's simple and easy to remember. Look,
people are already copying it.
What?
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
No way.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Um, would you like to exchange contact
information?
What?
I thought we could talk more about how we
understand our characters.
Ah, Okay
Okay.
Thank you.
Mm-hm.
I'll add you to the group chat right away.
What?
Add me to it?
Hm?
It's the production's group chat.
We can use it to discuss things from now
on.
When did you make this?
Ms. Shuto, Director Nihei, and Assistant
Director Hirabayashi are here.
Misato...!
Good work.
Wow, it's only a third of what the
Sunday-night drama gets.
That's a threefold difference.
Why does it have to make me feel so
miserable every time?
The budget, huh?
The ratings, huh?
Your age, huh?
What else? Your weight?
Your assets?
We're one step farther from our goal of
performing at the Budokan.
I'll have to give her a good talking-to
tomorrow.
Here it comes!
(Reiji Kanzaki's rom-com opens at 3.8%!
Viewers slam his formulaic acting.)
(The steep price of relying too heavily on
his rom-com persona.)
(After the premiere, Reiji's handsome CEO
role drew a wave of online complaints...)
(The same tired, predictable formula.)
(The exact same acting every single time.)
(View all 4,989 comments)
For the rain scene in two days, I'd like
to put chocolate in Momiji's bag.
What do you think?
The same piece she shares with Akito in
episode two.
No one will see what's inside her bag
anyway.
But I think Momiji would keep it safe.
You really have this production on your
mind all the time.
By the way, using the song Mr. Kanzaki
sings as the theme song...
...fits the drama's world so perfectly.
It's wonderful.
Thank you for giving us such a wonderful
theme song.
Could it be that clichs really are what's
best for this production?
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
(Thank you.)
President, what's going on?
I wasn't told anything.
(Your hair blowing in the wind...)
(I almost reached out to stroke it, but...)
There's nothing I need to tell you.
(...I stopped; Im not in love yet)
It was all a decision I made as president.
(This unfamiliar feeling of liking someone...)
Why?
You could at least have discussed it with
me first.
(This was supposed to be fiction, yet...)
Misato...
(I was the one who insisted it was)
(I wasnt interested from the start, but...)
(Before I knew it, I had eyes only for you)
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(Whether its okay to hold you close...)
You should start being honest with
yourself, too.
(...I still dont know, though)
(My feelings for you have grown so much)
Mr. Akito, Ms. Momiji, you're up next!
Welcome!
(Honestly, youre the only one for me)
Watch out!
Ah, I'm sorry!
Did that burn you?
No, I'm okay.
I'm fine.
I'll go change.
What's wrong?
Ms. Hanezawa, about this...
This is a one-of-a-kind costume.
What? Seriously?
I'm sorry.
Then continuity won't work for the next
scene.
This is a real problem.
Maybe we should just cut this part.
What? Seriously?
What do you mean?
For example, after this line...
...we could change it to something like,
'It's too hot. I'll take this off.'
I'll go discuss it with the director.
Got it.
I'll come, too.
That's why you're the lead.
You covered for the crew's mistake so
naturally.
You're just like you were before. That
puts me at ease.
What?
Oh, it's nothing.
Don't bring your personal feelings into
work.
You're the one who brought personal
matters into this first, President.
There's no point talking to you.
Wait, I'm not finished talking.
What else is there to say?
Wait, Akito!
You should be honest with yourself
already.
You really aren't honest, are you?
Cut!
That person is acting, too, right?
Of course!
The costume.
What's wrong?
What's wrong?
Please.
Please don't let rumors start that you're
dating your co-star.
What are you talking about?!
How could that ever happen with someone I
work with?!
We're professionals.
Great!
I recorded that, you know.
Seriously?
I can't believe I'm falling for that...
No, no, no!
When did those two get together?
(They look so good together. They seem
like a real couple.)
They don't suit each other at all!
Look, look!
No way!
No, no way!
We're counting on you two for the next
rain scene.
You know this scene determines everyone's
bento, right?
I spent a fortune on these lunches.
Nihei-chan, don't just say 'yeah,
yeah'make this scene shine!
Don't put so much pressure on me.
Got it.
Ow, ow, ow!
Speaking of the next scene...
Hey.
Your fever is really high.
I'm fine.
It's just a fever.
Are you really okay?
I heard we only got permission to shoot
the next scenes today.
We can't just skip them.
Especially the rain scene.
Don't push yourself.
Everyone's worked so hard to get ready.
I can't cause everyone trouble.
Because of that
Please let me film it.
Ready...
Misato-chan?
Yeah.
We can't let her push herself too hard,
either.
Takami-chan, can't we reschedule somehow?
Absolutely not.
We only got permission to film at this
location today.
Then what are we supposed to do?
Everyone, gather around.
Reiji-kun.
There's something I'd like to ask all of
you.
What is it?
Misato Minamikaze, who plays Momiji, has a
high fever right now.
What?
But she insists on finishing this rain
scene no matter what.
We can't talk her out of it.
She's worried that stopping the shoot
would cause trouble for everyone.
I...
...want to respect her determination.
So...
Could we finish this scene in as few takes
as possible?
I want to get her to the hospital as soon
as we can.
Please.
Forgive Me.
What?
Hey, are you serious?
Don't be ridiculous!
This is really unlike you.
What do you take us for?
All right!
Get ready right away!
Three takes!
We'll finish every shot in three takes or
less!
The lighting and sound teams will have to
work hard, but I'm counting on you all!
Light up the entire set!
Understood!
Leave it to me!
Sound is on me.
I'll capture every line, even if it kills
me.
OK!
Everyone else, I'm counting on you, too!
That's the Reiji team's strength.
Come on, lets go!
Reiji-kun has everyone wrapped around his
finger.
No, no, it's not like that.
Are you okay?
Just hang in there for three takes.
We'll take you to the hospital as soon as
we're done.
Ready.
We're ready over here, too.
All right, then...
Let's bring Momiji over!
Ms. Misato, we're counting on you.
Here, your bag is right here.
Thank you.
Hang in there!
Cut!
OK!
Good, next scene!
Akito, get ready!
Okay.
What?
What's wrong?
Okay, let's see.
OK!
Ready, and action!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
What are you doing in a place like this?
But I already...
How can I protect you if you're not by my
side?
Let's go home, Momiji.
Cut!
OK!
Cut!
Stop the rain!
Turn it off!
Are you okay?
You did really well.
Youve worked hard.
Yeah, that's right.
I understand.
All right, then, talk to you later.
Okay, thank you.
Oh, you came all this way.
Mm-hm.
How is she feeling?
Oh, her fever's gone down.
At this rate, we should be able to resume
filming as planned.
That's great.
(Kinako Hashitani)
There she goes again.
I'm on call 24/7, you know.
I'm practically living in a world made up
of nothing but my phone.
See you later. Bye.
Hello?
I'm sorry, Ms. Shuto.
I think I pushed myself too hard.
Actually...
My mother has terminal cancer. The doctor
says she doesn't have much time left.
This drama might be the last one my mother
gets to see.
My own work.
That's why I've given it my all and kept
going until now.
Mr. Kanzaki.
I'm sorry.
I... I don't know what to say.
Personal matters shouldn't get mixed up
with work.
But I was the only one rushing ahead,
and I made everyone else struggle along
with me.
I sincerely apologize.
You don't have to apologize.
The crew has seen how hard you've been
working,
so they're willing to give it their all
for you, too.
Get some rest and come back when you're
feeling better.
Everyone's waiting for you.
I'll get going, then.
Me too.
Everyone...
I'm really sorry for causing you all so
much trouble.
Misato-chan.
We're glad you're back safe and sound.
I look forward to working with you again
today.
I'm sorry for all the trouble I caused
before.
Really?
Let's do our best together again today.
Mr. Kanzaki.
Thank you for the other day.
It's only natural to work hard for your
mother,
but you can't push yourself until you
break.
Yes.
This isn't looking good.
It's really not looking good.
I've been a manager for twenty years. Let
me sound him out.
Ms. Morita, how old are you?
That's sexual harassment.
I'm sorry.
All right!
What a rough time.
I got completely soaked, didn't I?
The ratings for that rain scene were
really high, too.
Looks like your passion really reached the
audience.
It was me! It was all me!
The audience has finally recognized my
talent.
To be honest, the writer really seems to
like me.
Maybe my luck is finally about to turn.
Good morning, Mr. Ken.
Good morning, Mr. Kenji.
Morning.
I'm going to buy a pack of cigarettes.
Mr. Ken.
I look forward to working with you, too.
Likewise.
Reiji.
How are things on your end?
Still wall-slamming people every day?
What era do you think this is?
Rom-coms sure have it easy.
So carefree.
Easy?
We're the ones having a hard time.
The subject matter is heavy, and the cast
is stacked.
We can't afford to lose.
It's the same for us.
Don't make me laugh. There's no way it's
the same.
The weight of the responsibility is
completely different.
Huh?
You just throw in a bunch of simple,
over-the-top romance scenes,
make the audience swoon, and that's all
you need to do.
How easy is that?
A wall slam?
Hey, when did you become this kind of
person?
We're putting everything we've got into
making this rom-com.
You're the one person I'm not letting look
down on it!
That hurts!
Let go of me!
I'm sorry.
It's nothing.
Please, allow us to get married.
Please.
What does marriage mean to you?
It means building a happy family with Miss
Momiji.
This world is full of absurdities.
Unexpected accidents...
incurable illnesses...
Happiness can come crashing down in a
single night.
Can someone who can't even see the truth
of things
really take responsibility for my precious
daughter's life?
The old man's just talking nonsense.
Don't take it to heart.
Cut!
That was fantastic!
Thank you.
Are you okay?
That was excellent.
All right, thank you.
There's a break in the schedule, right?
See you in a bit.
This way, please.
Okay.
Get ready for the next scene.
Mr. Kenji!
That scene just now was amazing!
Are you okay?
I'm sorry.
Ah, daifuku is great, isn't it?
Easy to eat, filling, and the texture is
just right.
Here.
You're giving it to me?
I've always wanted to be a daifuku-type
actor.
That's why I've kept acting all these
years.
Daifuku?
Yeah.
Ever since I made my debut, there's been
one actor who's always stuck in my craw.
No matter what I did, I could never beat
him.
I couldn't become a high-end confection
sold in a first-class department store,
a luxury sweet.
But daifuku is something you can easily
buy at any convenience store,
and I thought maybe I could become that
kind of actor.
An actor in shows people can casually
watch on TV,
and who becomes an indispensable part of
the production through solid acting.
But the higher you climb, the harder
things get up there, too.
You're afraid of falling from the top,
and there's pressure to deliver results.
Everyone has their own hurdles to
overcome.
You do, too.
And I suppose he does, too.
Still, I'm a daifuku-type actor, while
you're the lead.
Sorry for saying something so
presumptuous.
So what kind of actor do you want to
become?
Lunch break!
What's for lunch today?
Excuse meokay.
What's going on here?
When the production gets hurt, I get hurt,
too!
What happened?
This, this.
(Pyon Pyon Fruits' star shows a new side,
leaving the crew stunned...)
What's this?
A weekly magazine making up rumors.
(Misato Minamikaze: workplace bully? Her
rude on-set behavior sparks outrage!)
Because our drama has been trending
lately.
Hello?
Why am I 'Friend B'?!
I don't even get a character name!
At least you got a role.
You're relying on that face of yours, too.
Hey, don't call me ugly!
I call it having a distinctive look.
Whatever you call it, it's a distinctive
look.
That's harsh!
By the way, is Misato-chan okay?
Oh, no, no...
Shouldn't you go check on her?
Why would I go?
Huh?
Come to think of it, Sma must've seen
that article, too.
Maybe he's already beaten you to it.
That guy really is a softie.
Oh, Mr. Kanzaki?
Um, is Ms. Minamikaze all right?
Let's give her some time alone for now.
Actually, her mother is critically ill.
What?
After filming today, she'll return to her
hometown in Fukuoka
to be with her mother.
But will she make it in time?
Misato refuses to listen and insists on
finishing today's scenes.
I think she feels she can't cause everyone
any more trouble.
I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
Thank you. I look forward to working with
you.
Go see your mother right now.
Don't worry about this.
If you don't go now, you'll regret it for
the rest of your life!
Of course I know that!
But if I abandon my work now, my mother
will really be upset.
So this is enough!
How could it possibly be enough?!
Who do you think got you this far?
Would you be okay never seeing her again?
Your one and only mother, who worked so
hard to raise you.
I'm sorry.
Sorry to spring this on everyone, but Mr.
Kenji has been taken to the hospital.
So we need to adjust the shooting schedule
for the upcoming scenes.
Ms. Momiji has no scenes scheduled for the
next three days.
Oh, I'm sorry about Mr. Kenji.
He got sick after eating oysters for
lunch.
He'll need some time to recover.
He's getting on in years, after all.
I see. If we don't have any scenes to
shoot,
there's not much point in staying here.
Then at least let's film the other scenes.
But I've already informed everyone.
Really?
Sorry.
Don't worry about me.
I'm not going to give you any special
treatment.
Since the schedule has already been
changed,
Ms. Momiji has no scenes for the next
three days.
Good work.
If it's already been decided, there's
nothing we can do.
Sorry, please excuse me.
Mr. Takami, thank you.
What a reckless lead you are.
I'm sorry.
Thank you, too, Mr. Kenji.
You have a lot of lines to cover for her.
Will you be okay?
No problem. I've memorized every line in
the script.
They don't serve persimmons in the
cafeteria here, do they?
Didn't they used to have them?
Mr. Kanzaki asked me to give this to you.
I heard Misato-chan made it in time to see
her mother one last time.
I see.
It's a wrap.
You came.
Yeah.
I thought I'd come by and see you.
Thank you.
Mom will be so happy.
Actually, she's always been a huge fan of
yours, Mr. Kanzaki.
Really?
Yeah.
Whenever she watched a drama you were in,
she'd perk up even when she was sick.
She always listened to your radio show and
sent postcards to the program, too.
That's right.
Postcards?
Her pen name was Marilyn.
What?
Marilynthat was your mother?
Yes.
Whenever you read one of her postcards,
she'd get as excited as a little girl.
I wanted Mom to be able to watch the drama
all the way to the final episode.
I really wanted her to see it through.
She did see it.
[Shoot until before Momiji appears
(page 34, line 4); other scenes revised.]
When will she be back?
I don't know.
With everything going on with her mother,
I think her schedule's been thrown off.
(She thanked the crew, then requested her
usual chocolate days later.)
It hasn't changed at all.
When I have no appetite, I eat kitsune
udon.
You do that, too?
I'm sorry about what happened before.
I went too far, too.
I'm sorry.
I pushed myself too hard because I wasn't
getting the results I wanted.
Seeing how happily you worked made me
jealous, honestly.
You were jealous of me?
Jealous?
Don't say things like that.
We're not even on the same level.
I'm the one who got left behind.
Don't be ridiculous.
I heard about Misato-chan.
If anyone can help her, it might be you.
Why me?
No, this headline...
The wording makes it way too easy to
misunderstand.
What?
What's this?
Actually, I met Misato-chan once before.
Was it Shin Gokudo High School, your first
TV drama filmed in Fukuoka?
That's right.
I heard Misato-chan was there as an extra,
too.
What?
Those are just lines for a supporting
character, right?
No, not a supporting character.
It was a very important roleas a close
friend.
This line is important for showing their
relationship.
We can't cut it.
Well, if you're saying that...
Then let's do it.
Reiji.
Thanks.
Sure, sure.
I heard Misato-chan has wanted to become
an actor like you ever since then.
She's always felt that way.
She liked you as a company president, but
she admired your acting, too.
That's why.
My acting?
There are scenes only you can bring to
life.
You've had that in you all along.
Scenes that only Reiji can act.
You changed her life.
You'd better take that responsibility
seriously.
(Reiji: You have one new message.)
You have to listen to the radio tonight.
All right, let's get tonight's show
started.
Kanzaki Reiji's Saturday Night Japan.
Wow, another week...
...has flown by in no time.
Filming Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the
One! is nearly done. It's been tough.
But now that we're close to wrapping up, I
feel a little sad to see it end.
A lot has happened with this drama from
the very beginning. Honestly...
Rom-coms are always easy for people to
look down on, aren't they?
But in reality, every shot is filled with
the hard work of so many colleagues.
To make us actors look even a little
better,
the camera crew adjusts even the tiniest
angles again and again.
The art team fills in details beyond the
script to bring the world to life.
Lighting conveys subtle emotions through
tiny changes in light.
Sound fine-tunes dialogue and audio so
every emotion comes through.
Costume and makeup work with actors to
shape roles and help them embody them.
The production team searches for the right
locations.
And countless other crew members, too.
Thanks to all of you, I can...
...truly live as an actor inside this
production.
And the person who reminded me of that was
someone I met while making this drama.
There are so many productions in this
world,
but there's only one made by this
particular cast and crew working together.
Shouldn't we treasure it, then?
That obvious, yet most important truth is
what they helped me remember.
Thanks to that person, I can now give this
production everything I've got,
and finish this drama together with
everyone.
If even one person were missing, this
production couldn't be completed,
and we wouldn't be able to bring it
to the viewers who are eagerly waiting for
it.
So...
I'll be waiting for you to come back.
All right, let's listen to a song.
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
(Your hair swaying in the breeze)
Misato Minamikaze.
How much longer are you going to rest?
Come back to work already.
(I wanted to reach out and gently wave it)
(But that would be cheating, since I haven't fallen for you yet)
How long are you going to keep us waiting?
(This unfamiliar feeling of liking someone)
It's a little lonely not having anyone
complain about the set decorations.
(This was supposed to be just a fictional story)
It's been so long since we heard Momiji's
voice.
(Yet I'm the one treating it all as fiction)
Everything's ready to turn Misato-chan
back into Momiji.
I'm already having Momiji withdrawal!
Just like Reiji-kun said, without
Momiji...
...this drama can't be completed.
(I wasnt interested from the start, but...)
Everyone's waiting for you.
(Before I knew it, I had eyes only for you)
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(Whether its okay to hold you close...)
(...I still dont know, though)
(My feelings for you have grown so much)
(Honestly, youre the only one for me)
(The ultimate I love you)
(Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
You're finally back!
I was so worried!
I'm sorry for making everyone worry.
Are you feeling better now?
Yeah.
After Mom passed away, I felt like I'd
been left all alone in the dark,
with no idea where to go.
But I still have all of you by my side.
I want to make the best rom-com ever with
all of you,
and bring smiles to even more people.
Welcome back, Momiji.
I'm home.
Could you make the emotion here a little
gentler?
Momiji might not have realized it yet.
What?
Wow, this is really bad.
Isn't this color a bit much?
Look, look!
This is incredible!
Everyone, look!
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Floor Slam! Boom, You're the One!
It's still so cheesy.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
What on earth is this?
Finished watching?
Yeah.
Let's go.
Why isn't it a happy ending?
Tomorrow, Ms. Hashitani...
Then let me talk to her directly.
No, no. That'll only make things worse.
I don't think any viewers want this kind
of ending.
Ms. Hashitani wrote this drama herself,
from beginning to end.
As its creator, her wishes deserve the
utmost respect.
That's only natural.
But we're the ones who bring the script to
life through our acting,
and present it to the audience.
Does that mean the voices of everyone
working on set can just be ignored?
I'm the producer.
I make all the decisions.
But this is everyone's production, too.
The final decision is mine.
Please leave.
All right, all right.
So that's the kind of person you are.
Have I disappointed you?
Was that going a bit too far?
Sorry.
We're filming a drama here. Thank you for
letting us use this location.
Oh, she's here.
Sensei, I'm sorry to make you come all the
way here when you're so busy.
Well?
Is everything going smoothly?
Yeah.
Good morning.
Let's run through it.
Like leaves scattering in the wind, our
love has reached its end.
Akito.
Thank you for staying by my side all this
time.
Goodbye.
Just as I thought.
Those two are best suited to a tragic
romance.
This tragic love will become an
unforgettable scene in history.
Right?
Cut!
Moving on to the next setup!
Clear the set first!
Clear the set!
That was fast.
We're just doing a run-through.
What do you want for lunch?
I've already arranged it.
I see.
Ms. Hashitani.
Thank you for writing such wonderful
scripts all the way to the final episode.
But as for the final scene...
I have no intention of changing it.
If we change it to a simple happy ending,
people will forget it in no time.
Wouldn't that be a shame for this
production?
I want this work to be remembered
throughout history.
But what about the audience, Reiji-kun?
Reiji, those postcards you asked me to
look for...
I found them.
Really?
Yeah. Luckily, they hadn't been thrown
away.
And this is the last postcard she sent.
Good evening. I'm a devoted fan of Mr.
Reiji's romantic comedies.
Marilyn.
I'm hooked on Wall Slam! Floor Slam!
You're the One!, now on TV.
Whenever I watch Mr. Reiji's rom-coms,
no matter how painful things are, I can
forget about them for a moment
and immerse myself in a happy world.
Mr. Reiji's rom-coms really are...
...what gives me the strength to keep
living.
I'll be looking forward to it right to the
very end.
Are you serious?
Please let me do it.
But I can't make that decision on my
own...
What are you doing?
I still think there's something wrong with
the final scene.
Who are television dramas really for?
Wanting to leave a mark on history is the
creator's personal desire.
Making the people who watch it feel
happy...
...isn't that what matters most?
I agree.
Ms. Shuto.
Honestly...
That stubborn, inflexible streak of
yours...
...hasn't changed since the day you
debuted.
All right.
We'll change the final scene to a happy
ending.
Huh?
Really? Are you sure?
That could put an end to your chances of
promotion.
I'm the producer.
I make all the decisions.
And I'll take responsibility for all of
it.
You only get one chance.
Yes.
Yes.
Sensei, the restroom is this way.
Please, come in.
No, no, no, I'm fine.
Just in case, you should go.
No, I can hold it.
No, no, you can't.
Please go in.
Take your time.
The two who've spent the most time with
Akito and Momiji these four months...
...are Reiji-kun and Misato-chan.
I want to trust what they feel.
It's all right.
Shuto said she'd take responsibility.
That's what she said.
Reiji-kun, Misato-chan, trust us.
Let yourselves go and give this scene
everything you've got.
We'll follow your lead.
Hey.
I look forward to working with you.
Let's see this scene through together.
Of course we're going to.
Let's do this together!
All right!
Wall slam!
Floor slam!
Boom, you're the one!
Hurry!
Quick!
Ready... and action!
Like leaves scattering in the wind...
...our love has reached its end.
Akito.
Thank you for staying by my side all this
time.
Goodbye.
Wait!
What happened?
What?
What's going on?
No matter how many seasons come and go...
...I want to stay by your side.
You realized it far too late.
You idiot.
What's wrong with being an idiot?
Cut!
What's going on?
Sensei, what is this...?
I never wrote this scene.
This is a blatant violation of the script.
Ms. Shuto, stop the filming immediately.
I'm terribly sorry.
This is all my responsibility.
Do you know who I am? I'm the god of
romance stories.
If you dare defy me, you may never...
...get another job in this industry.
Have you considered the consequences of
making such a brazen change?
Ms. Hashitani personally wrote this
production,
and every one of us knows that very well.
Then why?
Precisely because of that.
If I'm going to risk my acting career for
this production,
then I've already made peace with that.
I just want to follow Momiji's heart and
tell this story to its end.
Even if this is my last role, I won't
regret it.
Everyone here has agonized over this and
argued with one another,
all hoping that this production could make
its viewers even a little happier.
With that feeling in our hearts, we shot
it one scene at a time
and brought it all the way to this point.
Because we love this story, we want to
give it a happy ending.
Please.
Please.
Please.
This is the script for the happy ending I
wrote.
Sensei, you'd already written it?
Of course.
I've considered every possible ending.
Every one of them.
But...
Even I couldn't write a script more moving
than the scene you just performed.
So this script is scrapped.
A screenwriter puts their life into a
script.
But sometimes the atmosphere and passion
on set...
...can surpass even that.
Those two actors' performance just now...
...was truly outstanding.
Sensei...
Every one of you has poured your heart
into this production.
Thank you.
Let's use this ending!
Thank you.
Thank you.
That's wonderful!
Wonderful!
Rise.
Thank you!
Really...
I look forward to working with you from
now on, too!
You're the best director ever.
Finally, I want to say I'm lucky to have
colleagues like all of you.
From now on, I want to keep creating great
entertainment with you all,
and become an actor who brings smiles to
even more people.
Though, when all is said and done, I'm
just an actor who gets by on his looks.
Wait, your looks?
Don't tell me you think I cast you because
of your face?
Isn't that why?
Of course not.
You know, when someone acts opposite
Reiji-kun,
the actresses playing opposite him start
to shine even brighter,
as if they'd really fallen in love.
That's something only the actor Reiji
Kanzaki can do.
I'm so glad I got to play Momiji opposite
you, Mr. Kanzaki.
Me too.
I'm glad Momiji was played by Misato
Minamikaze.
I like you.
Isn't that a good thing?
As long as we don't get caught, it's fine,
right?
There's room over here, too.
This is already the fourth time, isn't it?
Ms. Morita, how old are you?
That's sexual harassment.
I'm just a mediocre actor,
but to be worthy of this award, I'll be a
full-fledged acting fanatic
and follow the path of an actor for the
rest of my life.
You say 'actor' way too many times!
By the way, why is Misato the only one who
got an award?
What about me?!
Looks good to me.
I'll do it.
Okay, thank you.
(Empress Himiko Korean TV drama,
Sun Television)
(I'm Handsome!
Tuesday Night Drama)
Our love story is just getting started!
Cut!
OK!
Moving on to this scene!
Good work.
Could someone clear away the obstacles
behind us?
Beautiful.
Hey, no one told me there'd be a back hug!
What's wrong with that? This is a rom-com.
No, no, what that scene needed was...
...a pause while the character struggles
with their feelings.
That pause was important, but you jumped
in and stole it right away.
I'm going to get changed.
Listen to me!
Say that after you've won an award.
You really said the one thing you
shouldn't have said to me.
I will never lose to you.
OCR, review, and processing by Aless &
ChatGPT. Original Author: Unknown Chinese Person.
SubtitleMan: This one took extra effort, The chinese author translated well but delibaretly traded accessiblity for visual shine using smaller font and nearly invisible outline. A Chinese Reader Might not be able to see characters from a far. In some cases your neigbor cannot read the subs. As if they are hidden a continent away. Music was also word synced frame by frame onto hard subs, whilst language was different, so they don't really add up.
How about cutting off a few chunks of
flesh and naming our price?
Or should we send two or three fingers
with the ransom note?
Seiya...
You bastard!
If you wanna die, bring it on!
What a mess.
What the hell is going on?!
Are you all right?
You really came back...
Yes.
I thought we'd never see each other again.
From now on, I don't want to stand by you
as your butler...
I want to stay by your side as your lover.
That's what I truly wish for.
Cut!
OK!
No, no, no, Reiji, that was amazing!
In that kiss scene, you made it look like
no one else existed in your eyes.
All right, all right.
You really know what you're doing.
You're the Prince of Rom-Coms, after all.
The hand placement, the angle of your
face...
Absolutely flawless.
You're laying it on way too thick.
Looking forward to working with you next
time, too.
(I'm filming today. It'll be tough, but
I'll do my best!)
(I kept my lips safe and kept my promise.)
What do you mean, no kissing scenes?
With that little commitment, how can you
call yourself an actor?
Come on, she's only an idol-actor in her
second TV drama.
Anyway, your next job is...
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Another rom-com?
Yep, a rom-com.
Are you kidding me?!
Haven't I told you? I'm done with
rom-coms.
I'm turning thirty.
Do I still have to play a fresh-faced
idol?
But that just means everyone still wants
to see you in rom-coms.
Right?
Besides, the original was written by the
god of romance stories,
Ms. Kinako Hashitani.
And the producer, Ms. Asami Shuto, has
looked after you since your debut.
It's also your 23rd starring TV dramaa
milestone!
Twenty-three?
That's worth celebrating?
Ow, that hurts.
Another idol-actor...
Will this be another embarrassing
pretty-boy role for me?
Uh, if I remember correctly, last time...
(A life no one can understand)
(Noticing that secret gaze)
(A moody glass, maybe, lady)
(Just as you start to want it)
(It doesn't seem like a joke)
(Sense my presencelisten)
(It's too late to pretend not to notice)
(An emotional misstep)
(Have you noticed?)
(Love me tonight)
(Midnight, just for you)
(The moon is beautiful, you know, baby)
(I want a kiss we can't avoid)
(A love that breaks the rules)
(On this sacred night)
(Love me tonight)
(Yeah, love me tonight)
(Love me tonight)
(Oh, yeah)
(Love me tonight)
That's seriously amazing.
Good work.
But lately, Minamikaze's been focusing on
acting in TV dramas and movies.
Everyone says she's a promising young
actress.
At the end of the day, she's just trying
to land commercials by acting.
Good work.
Just appearing in a TV drama will boost
your fame.
Good work.
I want to take acting seriously and go all
the way.
Sorry, Sorry
Since we're all doing the same kind of
work
I don't want to be lumped together with
people who treat acting like a side gig.
What?
Didn't I give you that at the beginning of
the year?
My career plan as an actor from now on.
Oh, I read it.
I really did read it.
I've starred in 23 productions since my
debut.
And what do I have to show for it?
I'm a nationally acclaimed actor, yet I've
never won a single award.
I want to win an award!
So what are you going to do about it?
Well, if you want to win an award...
That face of yours is practically
cheating.
But look at this.
Japan's most dazzling facehandsome from
every angle, 360 degrees.
A huge hit!
It really is.
But all you ever praise is my face.
Listen.
Even if I keep starring in these cheap
rom-coms,
no one will ever consider me a first-rate
actor.
So this time, let me star in something
with real substance!
All right.
Yeah.
All right.
Okay, let's get tonight's show started.
Kanzaki Reiji's Saturday Night Japan.
How was everyone's week?
Let's start, as always, with our very own
Marilyn.
Good evening, Mr. Kanzaki Reiji.
Good evening.
I'm a huge fan of your romantic comedies,
Mr. Reiji.
Marilyn.
This week's episode of Butler Love was
wonderful, too.
Every week, it makes my heart race and
recharges my tired body and soul.
It gives me so much energy.
Your rom-coms are what keep me going, Mr.
Reiji.
I can't wait for next week's episode.
Thank you for always supporting me,
Marilyn.
'What keeps me going,' huh?
That's the Prince of Rom-Coms for you.
You're exaggerating.
Hey, we can air this one again, right?
Oh, it's Misato Minamikaze again.
She's really getting better and better
lately.
As an actress, I mean.
As an actress, I want to make it big
nationwide.
What kind of actress is she? She's just a
sparkly idol.
Look here, look.
In Proof of the Duel, he's playing the
lead.
Mr. Yamamura?
Yes, him.
Mr. Yamamura has also agreed to make a
special appearance.
Seriously?
This is a great chance to learn from one
of Japan's top actors.
Oh, so you're doing another rom-com?
Yeah, and Mr. Yamamura will have a special
appearance in it, too.
It's already confirmed.
Mr. Yamamura? The world-famous Yamamura?
That's right.
Look at you, kid.
Yeah, I want to learn from himnot just
acting, but how he commands a set, too.
I'll learn as much as I can.
Mr. Yamamura's really in your drama, too?
Yeah. Why?
I heard he's making a special appearance
in mine, too.
In my Sunday-night drama.
What are you doing next?
A Sunday-night drama called Proof of the
Duel.
They're remaking that?
Yeah.
Don't tell me you're the lead?
Uh, yeah, but it hasn't been officially
announced yet.
You're starring in a Sunday-night drama at
your age?
That's pretty incredible.
Is Mr. Yamamura appearing in two Sunday
dramas at once?
Wait a second. Don't tell me...
What?
Wasn't there another actor whose name was
really similar to his?
He's fairly well-known, but somehow he's
always just a little short of the mark.
What was his name again?
It's Yamamura Kenji, right?
Isn't it rude to say he's 'just a little
short of the mark'?
Not 'Kenichi'...
Don't tell me you're that
'just-short-of-the-mark' guy, too?
I've been had!
Why did it have to be Kenji?!
It's Kenji, not Kenichi!
Damn it!
Okay, okay, I get it. Just calm down.
Why? Why does that guy get to star in a
Sunday-night drama?
While I'm stuck doing rom-coms!
What's so bad about that? You're handsome
and you have work.
Hey, handsome!
Right?
Shut up!
Looks and hype alone won't get you far in
this industry!
Without honing your skills, you'll never
be a real actorjust disposable.
Reiji!
I'm off.
Please welcome Best Actor winner Sma
Fuchigami to give his speech.
Please give us your acceptance speech.
I'm a complete acting fanatic. I can't do
anything but act.
I'll devote my life to this acting career
and make sure I'm worthy of this award.
Reiji!
Wake up!
Wait, what's going on?
The lead's late to the first table read!
We're all meeting for the first time!
What's the big deal?
Showing up at the last second is what a
leading man does.
You jerk!
I'm Here, I'm Here. Got it.
Ms. Shuto, sorry I'm late.
Not a problem. Someone else is even later
than you.
I look forward to working with you.
Likewise. Let's do our best.
What a pain.
I've really been looking forward to seeing
what you can do.
Sure, sure.
Feels good, doesn't it?
It feels great.
Reiji, I've got the whole crew lined up
for you.
Same familiar faces as always.
Mr. Kanzaki, I'm Misato Minamikaze.
It's a pleasure to work with you.
Likewise.
So?
What?
Ms. Hashitani is here.
They all made their names with
Sunday-night dramas.
One after another.
Komaru, Seichan, Tomokun.
Good to see you. Thanks for your hard
work.
Now that everyone's here...
Let's begin the table read for Wall Slam!
Floor Slam! You're the One!
Thank you all for being here.
But before we begin, there's something
very important I need to tell you.
Every single line written in the script...
must remain exactly as it is. Not one word
may be changed.
Unfortunately, some actors...
Some actors change line endings or
improvise on the spot,
just doing whatever they feel like.
That's an insult to the art of
screenwriting.
Sorry, but we really can't change even a
single word?
You!
Wait a moment.
Once actors have completely immersed
themselves in a role,
some words may come naturally only in that
very moment.
Excuse me.
To write just one line of dialogue,
I refine every line daily, sometimes
pouring my life into the script.
Do you really think that compared with the
lines I've poured my heart into writing,
something you make up on the spot is more
valuable?
That's not what I meant...
Do you understand?
Actors should act according to the script,
and the crew should film according to the
script.
That's what professionals do.
If you're not a professional, leave.
There are plenty of people who can replace
you.
Um, sensei, I understand what you're
saying.
Of course the script is important.
Right, Misato-chan?
Right, Reiji-kun.
Don't drag me into this.
You're absolutely right, sensei.
Then let's start the read-through right
away.
Let's begin.
All right, let's start.
Stick to the script, okay?
Yes, we'll follow the script exactly.
I'll read it according to the stage
directions in the script.
Please do.
All right, starting with Shinichi, exactly
as written.
Okay.
Satoko, don't add anything extra, all
right?
Absolutely no improvising.
Okay.
Thank you, everyone.
When Momiji entered the living room, Akito
was standing there.
It's that suspicious guy from earlier!
Who's a suspicious guy?
Why are you here?
I'm the one who should be asking you that.
You're trespassing.
This is my house.
No, this is my grandmother's house.
Aren't you the one trespassing?
You suspicious guy.
Stop calling me that.
Have you got the wrong idea about
something?
I'm not mistaken.
This hallway still smells of wood.
That curry stain on the wall...
and that huge scorch mark to the left of
the stove.
This mark...
was left when I accidentally broke my
grandmother's most treasured vase.
That's what happened.
This place holds so many memories of my
grandmother and me.
I'm not mistaken.
This is my grandmother's house.
I never imagined you were the president of
our company.
Why hide your identity from your
employees?
I can't help it. With a face like this,
it'd be a real problem if women fell for
me.
I only inherited the company from my
father.
To put it bluntly, it's a sham company,
and there are plenty of enemies inside it.
Hey, what are you doing?
Mr. Akito, why don't you try it, too?
It feels great.
I'm not a child.
Wait.
If you have nowhere to stay, you can stay
here.
But...
Let's live together.
Okay.
But in exchange, you can forget about
paying rent.
Don't push your luck, idiot.
Okay!
That's a wrap.
All right, thank you.
Wow, that was fantastic.
Let's keep this up and work hard together
for the next four months.
That concludes today's table read.
Thank you for your hard work, everyone.
Good work, everyone.
I look forward to working with you.
You completely became Momiji just now.
Thank you very much.
This girl is something else.
She really made me see her in a new light.
I'm going to rewrite the script starting
from episode two.
What? You're going to rewrite it?
Come on, sensei, you're joking, right?
But the official shooting schedule starts
tomorrow. It's already set.
That's right. I've nearly finalized
everything on my end, too.
Beautifully done.
Mr. Kanzaki, thank you for your hard work.
Good work.
Mr. Kanzaki, that was your first time
reading the script here today, wasn't it?
Of course not.
Honestly, you were really handsome.
What?
And...
Just as I thought.
You reek of alcohol.
You weren't even planning to take the role
seriously, were you?
You're making it look like you were cast
just because of your face.
You!
That's enough.
I only really get into the role after the
table read. That's when I start for real.
Got it?
Don't think you've won.
Wait, calm down.
And that final scene...
at the pace you used just now,
it would become your scene, not mine.
Also, after this part, you paused too
long.
I was the one who was supposed to pause
there.
Listen.
I'm the lead, and Akito is the focus of
this scene.
Time's up.
What?
I have a variety show to record.
Excuse me.
Ms. Morita, let's go.
Sorry about that.
What's that guy's problem?!
Don't get so worked up.
Good work.
Misato-chan, you did great just now.
She didn't look at the script even once,
did she?
I will never lose!
LOVE COMEDY
Good morning.
The scene at the family home, where Momiji
comes through the door...
We planned to track her from behind. Could
we use a drone?
No. Renting a drone is too expensive.
Use a handheld camera, then. Make the shot
clean and sharp.
How far are you planning to cut the
budget?
Forget it, Mr. Matsuyama. Better not get
your hopes up.
This isn't a Sunday-night drama or a
streaming production.
And another thing, everyone: on this set,
'spending money' is a forbidden phrase.
Because any extra spending has to be
reported up the chain.
Exactly. No extra expenses, period.
Let's start by testing the camera
positions.
Come on, let's make the picture sparkle!
Hup, hup, hup, hup, hup, hupthere we go!
That's a wrap on the TV drama Rainbow
High!
Great work, everyone!
Good work!
Even the director's crying!
Eight years ago, I was the lead, and that
guy was only seventh in the billing.
Oh!
Reiji!
Oh!
Long time no see!
How have you been?
Pretty good.
I'm starting filming here today, too.
I know.
Hey, you start filming today, too, right?
Yeah.
By the way, what's the title...?
Hey, hey!
I have to get going.
Well, let's both do our best.
Hey, wait!
Hey!
Good morning.
Go on, introduce yourself.
Oh, right.
I'm Misato Minamikaze.
Misato-chan?
Nice to meet you.
I see you in commercials all the time.
Strawberry Revive.
Thank you.
Just you wait.
What?
Well?
How about using it as the theme song for
this drama?
No way...
I can't understand a word of what you're
singing.
What?
Who would be able to sing this at karaoke?
Huh?
It's my song.
Of course I'm the one who should sing it.
This song is supposed to be a TV drama
theme song.
It should be more emotional, catchier, and
suit the world of a rom-com.
But then it'd just turn into another
full-on idol song.
I'm almost thirty.
Excuse me.
What?
What's wrong?
Have you seen Ms. Minamikaze?
No, I haven't.
You saw her?
You haven't even looked, have you?
I've searched everywhere, but I still
can't find her.
Did you really look properly?
Yeah, I did.
Then go look again.
Why?
Oh, there she is.
She definitely wasn't here a moment ago.
All right, go look again.
Sorry about that.
Okay, okay.
Ms. Shuto, I'm sorry.
Sorry, Mr. Sekine.
All right, all right.
Why are these things arranged here?
Do they have some special meaning?
These?
Little Momiji said she wanted to buy them
on a trip,
as a souvenir for her grandmother.
Oh, Momiji loves traveling, doesn't she?
Right?
Then what does this painting mean?
Oh, you noticed that, too.
We're about to go through the next steps.
Can we talk about it later?
What's that stuck on here?
W-wait a second.
You're really going all in with the
questions on your first day, aren't you?
Mr. Sekine's about ready to get fed up
with all your questions.
Am I causing you trouble?
No, no, not at all.
To understand a role, you should study the
sets and props.
Wow. No wonder you're a first-rate actor.
You're on another level.
What?
Did you just scoff at me?
No. Think whatever you like.
Good work.
Mr. Reiji.
Hm?
I just checked the set for the next scene.
Don't you think the lighting is a little
too bright?
It's this time of day in the scene, so we
brightened it up.
But wouldn't that make it harder
to convey how down Momiji is feeling?
Well... that's what the director asked
for.
Would it be okay if I talked to Director
Nihei?
Come here for a second.
What is it?
Leave the lighting and shadows to the
lighting crew and the director.
It's not something actors should interfere
with.
Why not?
We're all working together to make the
production, aren't we?
I think we should communicate properly.
Keep this up and people will think you're
a nuisance.
Eventually, you'll stop getting work
altogether.
I just want to make this production
better.
Mr. Reiji, the director's here.
Pyon Pyon Fruits have arrived!
What is her problem?
Ugh, I just want to go home.
What's wrong?
The shooting conditions are already
shabby, and they keep slashing the budget.
And she has no idea how things work.
Can't you see that?
Yeah, Sunday-night dramas really have it
good.
They have money to burn.
Actually, watching Proof of the Duel is
what made me want to join this industry.
Seriously?
I know this might sound bad to say to you,
Mr. Reiji,
but this time, I really want to work on
that production.
Exactly.
Oh, Mr. Reiji, this is for you.
See you at eight tonight!
Oh, thank you.
Mr. Kanzaki, this is for you.
Oh, thanks.
Mr. Takei, this is for you.
Oh, thank you.
Mr. Sekine, here's one for you, too.
Here you go. One, twothank you.
Oh, Ms. Annie, here's one for you, too.
Misato-chan remembered every single crew
member's name.
She's such a good girl.
Her family must have raised her well.
Really?
Oh, Mr. Hiroi, this is for you.
Thanks.
Actually, I'm a die-hard fan of Pyon Pyon
Fruits.
My favorite is the strawberry member, Ms.
Misato Minamikaze.
I'm so happy.
Then I'll give you two.
Really?
Awesome!
Oh, Mr. Hiroi, there's something else I
wanted to ask you.
Why are we filming Scene 36 before Scene
35?
Oh, ask Mr. Takami, the scheduler, about
that.
Mr. Takami, about the next scene...
why aren't we shooting in script order?
This way is faster,
and we don't have to readjust the
lighting.
But for this particular scene, wouldn't
shooting in order
better reflect how Akito and Momiji are
feeling?
Mr. Takami?
Do you think you need to teach me that?
I'm not an amateur.
If we go overtime, the budget becomes a
problem.
So we have to compromise for the sake of
the budget?
Who do you think you are?
All right, all right, Mr. Takami.
You're just an idol. Don't act like you're
already a professional actor!
Okay, okay.
Good work.
They've decided on the theme song for Wall
Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
What?
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
That's so clich.
Keep the choreography simple, too.
Make it simple enough for kindergarteners
to sing and dance at sports day.
That's a special request from Ms. Shuto.
But seriously, is this overly obvious
style really the right choice?
Oh, right!
Ms. Minamikaze!
Her first day was incredible!
Not a single retake, and she looked
completely at ease.
But that girl really is a handful.
She's so driven that she's overdoing it a
little.
She's making it hard for the crew to keep
up, too.
Speaking of which, those variety shows
Reiji turned down to focus on filming...
she's appearing on all of them in your
place now.
She already has idol work and ten
commercials; her schedule was packed.
Now she doesn't have a free moment at all.
I feel kind of bad about it.
Let's listen to it again.
I heard your family runs a strawberry
farm.
Yes, with my mother and older brother.
I grew up with a single mom and became an
idol to make life easier for her.
I see. That's admirable.
You've started acting lately, and I hear
your drama will air soon.
Yes.
Mr. Reiji Kanzaki is the star. He plays
Akito, a capable company president.
I play Momiji, an ordinary girl who
unexpectedly ends up living with him.
And that's where the story begins.
It's a romantic comedy that will make
everyone's heart flutter.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
airs next Tuesday, the 13th, at 9 p.m.
Please be sure to watch.
Everyone, you have to watch it, too!
Hey, Mr. Konno.
This is wonderful.
Reiji-kun finally agreed to appear on
Mansei.
All right, all right.
He's the lead, of course he has to appear.
Easy for you to say.
All right, all right.
Oh, Mr. Kanzaki.
Thank you for joining us today.
Sure. Thank you for having me.
Actually, there's something very important
I want to ask both of you.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Are you serious?
Of course!
I want this move to become the drama's
official gesture and a nationwide craze.
So I'm counting on you both.
Give it everything you've got on the live
show.
Reiji: I'm afraid I can't.
Misato: Leave it to me!
Wait, really?
Misato-chan, thank you!
I'll do my best!
Yeah.
I'm not doing it.
Mm-hm.
I'm not doing it.
Nope.
Why won't you do that move from earlier?
Who could do something that embarrassing?
If it helps the production, I think we
should do it.
Why do you always push yourself so hard?
I'm the star of this drama, and I'm the
one responsible for its ratings.
I just don't want people to get the wrong
idea.
I don't want them to think that because
I'm an idol...
...acting is just something I do on the
side.
If I want to be recognized as an actor,
I think I have to put my all into
everything I can do.
Besides, my mom once told me...
Here you go.
Hm? More sweet strawberries?
This is a very special strawberry, too.
Every year, so many strawberries grow.
They may all look the same, but each
one...
...is unique and irreplaceable, born just
that once.
That's why we have to treasure them.
I think our drama is the same way.
There are so many productions in this
world,
but this one is made by usthe cast and
crewworking together.
Shouldn't we treasure it, then?
Are you even listening?
I am listening.
But don't compare a production to
strawberries.
Excuse Me.
A production or a strawberryboth deserve
to be treasured.
Sorry.
Next, let's hear a few words from our
lead, Mr. Kanzaki.
Okay.
I think this drama will remind people how
wonderful love is,
and maybe make them want to fall in love
again.
Please tune in tonight at nine.
Ready, one, two! Wall Slam! Floor Slam!
You're the One!
That's amazing!
Be sure to watch!
Please don't miss it!
Okay, okay, okay!
Thank you, everyone.
Good work.
There's no way something like that will
catch on.
You think so?
It's simple and easy to remember. Look,
people are already copying it.
What?
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
No way.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Um, would you like to exchange contact
information?
What?
I thought we could talk more about how we
understand our characters.
Ah, Okay
Okay.
Thank you.
Mm-hm.
I'll add you to the group chat right away.
What?
Add me to it?
Hm?
It's the production's group chat.
We can use it to discuss things from now
on.
When did you make this?
Ms. Shuto, Director Nihei, and Assistant
Director Hirabayashi are here.
Misato...!
Good work.
Wow, it's only a third of what the
Sunday-night drama gets.
That's a threefold difference.
Why does it have to make me feel so
miserable every time?
The budget, huh?
The ratings, huh?
Your age, huh?
What else? Your weight?
Your assets?
We're one step farther from our goal of
performing at the Budokan.
I'll have to give her a good talking-to
tomorrow.
Here it comes!
(Reiji Kanzaki's rom-com opens at 3.8%!
Viewers slam his formulaic acting.)
(The steep price of relying too heavily on
his rom-com persona.)
(After the premiere, Reiji's handsome CEO
role drew a wave of online complaints...)
(The same tired, predictable formula.)
(The exact same acting every single time.)
(View all 4,989 comments)
For the rain scene in two days, I'd like
to put chocolate in Momiji's bag.
What do you think?
The same piece she shares with Akito in
episode two.
No one will see what's inside her bag
anyway.
But I think Momiji would keep it safe.
You really have this production on your
mind all the time.
By the way, using the song Mr. Kanzaki
sings as the theme song...
...fits the drama's world so perfectly.
It's wonderful.
Thank you for giving us such a wonderful
theme song.
Could it be that clichs really are what's
best for this production?
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
(Thank you.)
President, what's going on?
I wasn't told anything.
(Your hair blowing in the wind...)
(I almost reached out to stroke it, but...)
There's nothing I need to tell you.
(...I stopped; Im not in love yet)
It was all a decision I made as president.
(This unfamiliar feeling of liking someone...)
Why?
You could at least have discussed it with
me first.
(This was supposed to be fiction, yet...)
Misato...
(I was the one who insisted it was)
(I wasnt interested from the start, but...)
(Before I knew it, I had eyes only for you)
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(Whether its okay to hold you close...)
You should start being honest with
yourself, too.
(...I still dont know, though)
(My feelings for you have grown so much)
Mr. Akito, Ms. Momiji, you're up next!
Welcome!
(Honestly, youre the only one for me)
Watch out!
Ah, I'm sorry!
Did that burn you?
No, I'm okay.
I'm fine.
I'll go change.
What's wrong?
Ms. Hanezawa, about this...
This is a one-of-a-kind costume.
What? Seriously?
I'm sorry.
Then continuity won't work for the next
scene.
This is a real problem.
Maybe we should just cut this part.
What? Seriously?
What do you mean?
For example, after this line...
...we could change it to something like,
'It's too hot. I'll take this off.'
I'll go discuss it with the director.
Got it.
I'll come, too.
That's why you're the lead.
You covered for the crew's mistake so
naturally.
You're just like you were before. That
puts me at ease.
What?
Oh, it's nothing.
Don't bring your personal feelings into
work.
You're the one who brought personal
matters into this first, President.
There's no point talking to you.
Wait, I'm not finished talking.
What else is there to say?
Wait, Akito!
You should be honest with yourself
already.
You really aren't honest, are you?
Cut!
That person is acting, too, right?
Of course!
The costume.
What's wrong?
What's wrong?
Please.
Please don't let rumors start that you're
dating your co-star.
What are you talking about?!
How could that ever happen with someone I
work with?!
We're professionals.
Great!
I recorded that, you know.
Seriously?
I can't believe I'm falling for that...
No, no, no!
When did those two get together?
(They look so good together. They seem
like a real couple.)
They don't suit each other at all!
Look, look!
No way!
No, no way!
We're counting on you two for the next
rain scene.
You know this scene determines everyone's
bento, right?
I spent a fortune on these lunches.
Nihei-chan, don't just say 'yeah,
yeah'make this scene shine!
Don't put so much pressure on me.
Got it.
Ow, ow, ow!
Speaking of the next scene...
Hey.
Your fever is really high.
I'm fine.
It's just a fever.
Are you really okay?
I heard we only got permission to shoot
the next scenes today.
We can't just skip them.
Especially the rain scene.
Don't push yourself.
Everyone's worked so hard to get ready.
I can't cause everyone trouble.
Because of that
Please let me film it.
Ready...
Misato-chan?
Yeah.
We can't let her push herself too hard,
either.
Takami-chan, can't we reschedule somehow?
Absolutely not.
We only got permission to film at this
location today.
Then what are we supposed to do?
Everyone, gather around.
Reiji-kun.
There's something I'd like to ask all of
you.
What is it?
Misato Minamikaze, who plays Momiji, has a
high fever right now.
What?
But she insists on finishing this rain
scene no matter what.
We can't talk her out of it.
She's worried that stopping the shoot
would cause trouble for everyone.
I...
...want to respect her determination.
So...
Could we finish this scene in as few takes
as possible?
I want to get her to the hospital as soon
as we can.
Please.
Forgive Me.
What?
Hey, are you serious?
Don't be ridiculous!
This is really unlike you.
What do you take us for?
All right!
Get ready right away!
Three takes!
We'll finish every shot in three takes or
less!
The lighting and sound teams will have to
work hard, but I'm counting on you all!
Light up the entire set!
Understood!
Leave it to me!
Sound is on me.
I'll capture every line, even if it kills
me.
OK!
Everyone else, I'm counting on you, too!
That's the Reiji team's strength.
Come on, lets go!
Reiji-kun has everyone wrapped around his
finger.
No, no, it's not like that.
Are you okay?
Just hang in there for three takes.
We'll take you to the hospital as soon as
we're done.
Ready.
We're ready over here, too.
All right, then...
Let's bring Momiji over!
Ms. Misato, we're counting on you.
Here, your bag is right here.
Thank you.
Hang in there!
Cut!
OK!
Good, next scene!
Akito, get ready!
Okay.
What?
What's wrong?
Okay, let's see.
OK!
Ready, and action!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
Momiji!
What are you doing in a place like this?
But I already...
How can I protect you if you're not by my
side?
Let's go home, Momiji.
Cut!
OK!
Cut!
Stop the rain!
Turn it off!
Are you okay?
You did really well.
Youve worked hard.
Yeah, that's right.
I understand.
All right, then, talk to you later.
Okay, thank you.
Oh, you came all this way.
Mm-hm.
How is she feeling?
Oh, her fever's gone down.
At this rate, we should be able to resume
filming as planned.
That's great.
(Kinako Hashitani)
There she goes again.
I'm on call 24/7, you know.
I'm practically living in a world made up
of nothing but my phone.
See you later. Bye.
Hello?
I'm sorry, Ms. Shuto.
I think I pushed myself too hard.
Actually...
My mother has terminal cancer. The doctor
says she doesn't have much time left.
This drama might be the last one my mother
gets to see.
My own work.
That's why I've given it my all and kept
going until now.
Mr. Kanzaki.
I'm sorry.
I... I don't know what to say.
Personal matters shouldn't get mixed up
with work.
But I was the only one rushing ahead,
and I made everyone else struggle along
with me.
I sincerely apologize.
You don't have to apologize.
The crew has seen how hard you've been
working,
so they're willing to give it their all
for you, too.
Get some rest and come back when you're
feeling better.
Everyone's waiting for you.
I'll get going, then.
Me too.
Everyone...
I'm really sorry for causing you all so
much trouble.
Misato-chan.
We're glad you're back safe and sound.
I look forward to working with you again
today.
I'm sorry for all the trouble I caused
before.
Really?
Let's do our best together again today.
Mr. Kanzaki.
Thank you for the other day.
It's only natural to work hard for your
mother,
but you can't push yourself until you
break.
Yes.
This isn't looking good.
It's really not looking good.
I've been a manager for twenty years. Let
me sound him out.
Ms. Morita, how old are you?
That's sexual harassment.
I'm sorry.
All right!
What a rough time.
I got completely soaked, didn't I?
The ratings for that rain scene were
really high, too.
Looks like your passion really reached the
audience.
It was me! It was all me!
The audience has finally recognized my
talent.
To be honest, the writer really seems to
like me.
Maybe my luck is finally about to turn.
Good morning, Mr. Ken.
Good morning, Mr. Kenji.
Morning.
I'm going to buy a pack of cigarettes.
Mr. Ken.
I look forward to working with you, too.
Likewise.
Reiji.
How are things on your end?
Still wall-slamming people every day?
What era do you think this is?
Rom-coms sure have it easy.
So carefree.
Easy?
We're the ones having a hard time.
The subject matter is heavy, and the cast
is stacked.
We can't afford to lose.
It's the same for us.
Don't make me laugh. There's no way it's
the same.
The weight of the responsibility is
completely different.
Huh?
You just throw in a bunch of simple,
over-the-top romance scenes,
make the audience swoon, and that's all
you need to do.
How easy is that?
A wall slam?
Hey, when did you become this kind of
person?
We're putting everything we've got into
making this rom-com.
You're the one person I'm not letting look
down on it!
That hurts!
Let go of me!
I'm sorry.
It's nothing.
Please, allow us to get married.
Please.
What does marriage mean to you?
It means building a happy family with Miss
Momiji.
This world is full of absurdities.
Unexpected accidents...
incurable illnesses...
Happiness can come crashing down in a
single night.
Can someone who can't even see the truth
of things
really take responsibility for my precious
daughter's life?
The old man's just talking nonsense.
Don't take it to heart.
Cut!
That was fantastic!
Thank you.
Are you okay?
That was excellent.
All right, thank you.
There's a break in the schedule, right?
See you in a bit.
This way, please.
Okay.
Get ready for the next scene.
Mr. Kenji!
That scene just now was amazing!
Are you okay?
I'm sorry.
Ah, daifuku is great, isn't it?
Easy to eat, filling, and the texture is
just right.
Here.
You're giving it to me?
I've always wanted to be a daifuku-type
actor.
That's why I've kept acting all these
years.
Daifuku?
Yeah.
Ever since I made my debut, there's been
one actor who's always stuck in my craw.
No matter what I did, I could never beat
him.
I couldn't become a high-end confection
sold in a first-class department store,
a luxury sweet.
But daifuku is something you can easily
buy at any convenience store,
and I thought maybe I could become that
kind of actor.
An actor in shows people can casually
watch on TV,
and who becomes an indispensable part of
the production through solid acting.
But the higher you climb, the harder
things get up there, too.
You're afraid of falling from the top,
and there's pressure to deliver results.
Everyone has their own hurdles to
overcome.
You do, too.
And I suppose he does, too.
Still, I'm a daifuku-type actor, while
you're the lead.
Sorry for saying something so
presumptuous.
So what kind of actor do you want to
become?
Lunch break!
What's for lunch today?
Excuse meokay.
What's going on here?
When the production gets hurt, I get hurt,
too!
What happened?
This, this.
(Pyon Pyon Fruits' star shows a new side,
leaving the crew stunned...)
What's this?
A weekly magazine making up rumors.
(Misato Minamikaze: workplace bully? Her
rude on-set behavior sparks outrage!)
Because our drama has been trending
lately.
Hello?
Why am I 'Friend B'?!
I don't even get a character name!
At least you got a role.
You're relying on that face of yours, too.
Hey, don't call me ugly!
I call it having a distinctive look.
Whatever you call it, it's a distinctive
look.
That's harsh!
By the way, is Misato-chan okay?
Oh, no, no...
Shouldn't you go check on her?
Why would I go?
Huh?
Come to think of it, Sma must've seen
that article, too.
Maybe he's already beaten you to it.
That guy really is a softie.
Oh, Mr. Kanzaki?
Um, is Ms. Minamikaze all right?
Let's give her some time alone for now.
Actually, her mother is critically ill.
What?
After filming today, she'll return to her
hometown in Fukuoka
to be with her mother.
But will she make it in time?
Misato refuses to listen and insists on
finishing today's scenes.
I think she feels she can't cause everyone
any more trouble.
I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
Thank you. I look forward to working with
you.
Go see your mother right now.
Don't worry about this.
If you don't go now, you'll regret it for
the rest of your life!
Of course I know that!
But if I abandon my work now, my mother
will really be upset.
So this is enough!
How could it possibly be enough?!
Who do you think got you this far?
Would you be okay never seeing her again?
Your one and only mother, who worked so
hard to raise you.
I'm sorry.
Sorry to spring this on everyone, but Mr.
Kenji has been taken to the hospital.
So we need to adjust the shooting schedule
for the upcoming scenes.
Ms. Momiji has no scenes scheduled for the
next three days.
Oh, I'm sorry about Mr. Kenji.
He got sick after eating oysters for
lunch.
He'll need some time to recover.
He's getting on in years, after all.
I see. If we don't have any scenes to
shoot,
there's not much point in staying here.
Then at least let's film the other scenes.
But I've already informed everyone.
Really?
Sorry.
Don't worry about me.
I'm not going to give you any special
treatment.
Since the schedule has already been
changed,
Ms. Momiji has no scenes for the next
three days.
Good work.
If it's already been decided, there's
nothing we can do.
Sorry, please excuse me.
Mr. Takami, thank you.
What a reckless lead you are.
I'm sorry.
Thank you, too, Mr. Kenji.
You have a lot of lines to cover for her.
Will you be okay?
No problem. I've memorized every line in
the script.
They don't serve persimmons in the
cafeteria here, do they?
Didn't they used to have them?
Mr. Kanzaki asked me to give this to you.
I heard Misato-chan made it in time to see
her mother one last time.
I see.
It's a wrap.
You came.
Yeah.
I thought I'd come by and see you.
Thank you.
Mom will be so happy.
Actually, she's always been a huge fan of
yours, Mr. Kanzaki.
Really?
Yeah.
Whenever she watched a drama you were in,
she'd perk up even when she was sick.
She always listened to your radio show and
sent postcards to the program, too.
That's right.
Postcards?
Her pen name was Marilyn.
What?
Marilynthat was your mother?
Yes.
Whenever you read one of her postcards,
she'd get as excited as a little girl.
I wanted Mom to be able to watch the drama
all the way to the final episode.
I really wanted her to see it through.
She did see it.
[Shoot until before Momiji appears
(page 34, line 4); other scenes revised.]
When will she be back?
I don't know.
With everything going on with her mother,
I think her schedule's been thrown off.
(She thanked the crew, then requested her
usual chocolate days later.)
It hasn't changed at all.
When I have no appetite, I eat kitsune
udon.
You do that, too?
I'm sorry about what happened before.
I went too far, too.
I'm sorry.
I pushed myself too hard because I wasn't
getting the results I wanted.
Seeing how happily you worked made me
jealous, honestly.
You were jealous of me?
Jealous?
Don't say things like that.
We're not even on the same level.
I'm the one who got left behind.
Don't be ridiculous.
I heard about Misato-chan.
If anyone can help her, it might be you.
Why me?
No, this headline...
The wording makes it way too easy to
misunderstand.
What?
What's this?
Actually, I met Misato-chan once before.
Was it Shin Gokudo High School, your first
TV drama filmed in Fukuoka?
That's right.
I heard Misato-chan was there as an extra,
too.
What?
Those are just lines for a supporting
character, right?
No, not a supporting character.
It was a very important roleas a close
friend.
This line is important for showing their
relationship.
We can't cut it.
Well, if you're saying that...
Then let's do it.
Reiji.
Thanks.
Sure, sure.
I heard Misato-chan has wanted to become
an actor like you ever since then.
She's always felt that way.
She liked you as a company president, but
she admired your acting, too.
That's why.
My acting?
There are scenes only you can bring to
life.
You've had that in you all along.
Scenes that only Reiji can act.
You changed her life.
You'd better take that responsibility
seriously.
(Reiji: You have one new message.)
You have to listen to the radio tonight.
All right, let's get tonight's show
started.
Kanzaki Reiji's Saturday Night Japan.
Wow, another week...
...has flown by in no time.
Filming Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the
One! is nearly done. It's been tough.
But now that we're close to wrapping up, I
feel a little sad to see it end.
A lot has happened with this drama from
the very beginning. Honestly...
Rom-coms are always easy for people to
look down on, aren't they?
But in reality, every shot is filled with
the hard work of so many colleagues.
To make us actors look even a little
better,
the camera crew adjusts even the tiniest
angles again and again.
The art team fills in details beyond the
script to bring the world to life.
Lighting conveys subtle emotions through
tiny changes in light.
Sound fine-tunes dialogue and audio so
every emotion comes through.
Costume and makeup work with actors to
shape roles and help them embody them.
The production team searches for the right
locations.
And countless other crew members, too.
Thanks to all of you, I can...
...truly live as an actor inside this
production.
And the person who reminded me of that was
someone I met while making this drama.
There are so many productions in this
world,
but there's only one made by this
particular cast and crew working together.
Shouldn't we treasure it, then?
That obvious, yet most important truth is
what they helped me remember.
Thanks to that person, I can now give this
production everything I've got,
and finish this drama together with
everyone.
If even one person were missing, this
production couldn't be completed,
and we wouldn't be able to bring it
to the viewers who are eagerly waiting for
it.
So...
I'll be waiting for you to come back.
All right, let's listen to a song.
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(The ultimate I love you...)
(...Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
(Your hair swaying in the breeze)
Misato Minamikaze.
How much longer are you going to rest?
Come back to work already.
(I wanted to reach out and gently wave it)
(But that would be cheating, since I haven't fallen for you yet)
How long are you going to keep us waiting?
(This unfamiliar feeling of liking someone)
It's a little lonely not having anyone
complain about the set decorations.
(This was supposed to be just a fictional story)
It's been so long since we heard Momiji's
voice.
(Yet I'm the one treating it all as fiction)
Everything's ready to turn Misato-chan
back into Momiji.
I'm already having Momiji withdrawal!
Just like Reiji-kun said, without
Momiji...
...this drama can't be completed.
(I wasnt interested from the start, but...)
Everyone's waiting for you.
(Before I knew it, I had eyes only for you)
(DON DON, I fell for you more and more)
(DON DON, love began to bloom)
(Whether its okay to hold you close...)
(...I still dont know, though)
(My feelings for you have grown so much)
(Honestly, youre the only one for me)
(The ultimate I love you)
(Ill send it only to you)
(Youre my Strawberry)
You're finally back!
I was so worried!
I'm sorry for making everyone worry.
Are you feeling better now?
Yeah.
After Mom passed away, I felt like I'd
been left all alone in the dark,
with no idea where to go.
But I still have all of you by my side.
I want to make the best rom-com ever with
all of you,
and bring smiles to even more people.
Welcome back, Momiji.
I'm home.
Could you make the emotion here a little
gentler?
Momiji might not have realized it yet.
What?
Wow, this is really bad.
Isn't this color a bit much?
Look, look!
This is incredible!
Everyone, look!
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
Floor Slam! Boom, You're the One!
It's still so cheesy.
Wall Slam! Floor Slam! You're the One!
What on earth is this?
Finished watching?
Yeah.
Let's go.
Why isn't it a happy ending?
Tomorrow, Ms. Hashitani...
Then let me talk to her directly.
No, no. That'll only make things worse.
I don't think any viewers want this kind
of ending.
Ms. Hashitani wrote this drama herself,
from beginning to end.
As its creator, her wishes deserve the
utmost respect.
That's only natural.
But we're the ones who bring the script to
life through our acting,
and present it to the audience.
Does that mean the voices of everyone
working on set can just be ignored?
I'm the producer.
I make all the decisions.
But this is everyone's production, too.
The final decision is mine.
Please leave.
All right, all right.
So that's the kind of person you are.
Have I disappointed you?
Was that going a bit too far?
Sorry.
We're filming a drama here. Thank you for
letting us use this location.
Oh, she's here.
Sensei, I'm sorry to make you come all the
way here when you're so busy.
Well?
Is everything going smoothly?
Yeah.
Good morning.
Let's run through it.
Like leaves scattering in the wind, our
love has reached its end.
Akito.
Thank you for staying by my side all this
time.
Goodbye.
Just as I thought.
Those two are best suited to a tragic
romance.
This tragic love will become an
unforgettable scene in history.
Right?
Cut!
Moving on to the next setup!
Clear the set first!
Clear the set!
That was fast.
We're just doing a run-through.
What do you want for lunch?
I've already arranged it.
I see.
Ms. Hashitani.
Thank you for writing such wonderful
scripts all the way to the final episode.
But as for the final scene...
I have no intention of changing it.
If we change it to a simple happy ending,
people will forget it in no time.
Wouldn't that be a shame for this
production?
I want this work to be remembered
throughout history.
But what about the audience, Reiji-kun?
Reiji, those postcards you asked me to
look for...
I found them.
Really?
Yeah. Luckily, they hadn't been thrown
away.
And this is the last postcard she sent.
Good evening. I'm a devoted fan of Mr.
Reiji's romantic comedies.
Marilyn.
I'm hooked on Wall Slam! Floor Slam!
You're the One!, now on TV.
Whenever I watch Mr. Reiji's rom-coms,
no matter how painful things are, I can
forget about them for a moment
and immerse myself in a happy world.
Mr. Reiji's rom-coms really are...
...what gives me the strength to keep
living.
I'll be looking forward to it right to the
very end.
Are you serious?
Please let me do it.
But I can't make that decision on my
own...
What are you doing?
I still think there's something wrong with
the final scene.
Who are television dramas really for?
Wanting to leave a mark on history is the
creator's personal desire.
Making the people who watch it feel
happy...
...isn't that what matters most?
I agree.
Ms. Shuto.
Honestly...
That stubborn, inflexible streak of
yours...
...hasn't changed since the day you
debuted.
All right.
We'll change the final scene to a happy
ending.
Huh?
Really? Are you sure?
That could put an end to your chances of
promotion.
I'm the producer.
I make all the decisions.
And I'll take responsibility for all of
it.
You only get one chance.
Yes.
Yes.
Sensei, the restroom is this way.
Please, come in.
No, no, no, I'm fine.
Just in case, you should go.
No, I can hold it.
No, no, you can't.
Please go in.
Take your time.
The two who've spent the most time with
Akito and Momiji these four months...
...are Reiji-kun and Misato-chan.
I want to trust what they feel.
It's all right.
Shuto said she'd take responsibility.
That's what she said.
Reiji-kun, Misato-chan, trust us.
Let yourselves go and give this scene
everything you've got.
We'll follow your lead.
Hey.
I look forward to working with you.
Let's see this scene through together.
Of course we're going to.
Let's do this together!
All right!
Wall slam!
Floor slam!
Boom, you're the one!
Hurry!
Quick!
Ready... and action!
Like leaves scattering in the wind...
...our love has reached its end.
Akito.
Thank you for staying by my side all this
time.
Goodbye.
Wait!
What happened?
What?
What's going on?
No matter how many seasons come and go...
...I want to stay by your side.
You realized it far too late.
You idiot.
What's wrong with being an idiot?
Cut!
What's going on?
Sensei, what is this...?
I never wrote this scene.
This is a blatant violation of the script.
Ms. Shuto, stop the filming immediately.
I'm terribly sorry.
This is all my responsibility.
Do you know who I am? I'm the god of
romance stories.
If you dare defy me, you may never...
...get another job in this industry.
Have you considered the consequences of
making such a brazen change?
Ms. Hashitani personally wrote this
production,
and every one of us knows that very well.
Then why?
Precisely because of that.
If I'm going to risk my acting career for
this production,
then I've already made peace with that.
I just want to follow Momiji's heart and
tell this story to its end.
Even if this is my last role, I won't
regret it.
Everyone here has agonized over this and
argued with one another,
all hoping that this production could make
its viewers even a little happier.
With that feeling in our hearts, we shot
it one scene at a time
and brought it all the way to this point.
Because we love this story, we want to
give it a happy ending.
Please.
Please.
Please.
This is the script for the happy ending I
wrote.
Sensei, you'd already written it?
Of course.
I've considered every possible ending.
Every one of them.
But...
Even I couldn't write a script more moving
than the scene you just performed.
So this script is scrapped.
A screenwriter puts their life into a
script.
But sometimes the atmosphere and passion
on set...
...can surpass even that.
Those two actors' performance just now...
...was truly outstanding.
Sensei...
Every one of you has poured your heart
into this production.
Thank you.
Let's use this ending!
Thank you.
Thank you.
That's wonderful!
Wonderful!
Rise.
Thank you!
Really...
I look forward to working with you from
now on, too!
You're the best director ever.
Finally, I want to say I'm lucky to have
colleagues like all of you.
From now on, I want to keep creating great
entertainment with you all,
and become an actor who brings smiles to
even more people.
Though, when all is said and done, I'm
just an actor who gets by on his looks.
Wait, your looks?
Don't tell me you think I cast you because
of your face?
Isn't that why?
Of course not.
You know, when someone acts opposite
Reiji-kun,
the actresses playing opposite him start
to shine even brighter,
as if they'd really fallen in love.
That's something only the actor Reiji
Kanzaki can do.
I'm so glad I got to play Momiji opposite
you, Mr. Kanzaki.
Me too.
I'm glad Momiji was played by Misato
Minamikaze.
I like you.
Isn't that a good thing?
As long as we don't get caught, it's fine,
right?
There's room over here, too.
This is already the fourth time, isn't it?
Ms. Morita, how old are you?
That's sexual harassment.
I'm just a mediocre actor,
but to be worthy of this award, I'll be a
full-fledged acting fanatic
and follow the path of an actor for the
rest of my life.
You say 'actor' way too many times!
By the way, why is Misato the only one who
got an award?
What about me?!
Looks good to me.
I'll do it.
Okay, thank you.
(Empress Himiko Korean TV drama,
Sun Television)
(I'm Handsome!
Tuesday Night Drama)
Our love story is just getting started!
Cut!
OK!
Moving on to this scene!
Good work.
Could someone clear away the obstacles
behind us?
Beautiful.
Hey, no one told me there'd be a back hug!
What's wrong with that? This is a rom-com.
No, no, what that scene needed was...
...a pause while the character struggles
with their feelings.
That pause was important, but you jumped
in and stole it right away.
I'm going to get changed.
Listen to me!
Say that after you've won an award.
You really said the one thing you
shouldn't have said to me.
I will never lose to you.
OCR, review, and processing by Aless &
ChatGPT. Original Author: Unknown Chinese Person.
SubtitleMan: This one took extra effort, The chinese author translated well but delibaretly traded accessiblity for visual shine using smaller font and nearly invisible outline. A Chinese Reader Might not be able to see characters from a far. In some cases your neigbor cannot read the subs. As if they are hidden a continent away. Music was also word synced frame by frame onto hard subs, whilst language was different, so they don't really add up.