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The Naked Director Season 2

Starting out as a door-to-door salesperson for English reference books, Toru Muranishi revolutionizes the Japanese adult film industry by shifting the focus from superficial content to more authentic and narrative-driven experiences

Setsuko Koda is married to Kiichiro, who is significantly older than her. She becomes involved in a romantic relationship with Masahiro Sawaki. When Kiichiro gets into a serious car accident, Setsuko rushes to the hospital and unexpectedly encounters her estranged mother, Ritsuko Fujishima, whom she has a strained relationship with due to past abuse and her previous connection to Kiichiro. This storyline is adapted from the novel "Garasu no Ashi" by Sakuragi Shino.

The Yakuza have seen better days and are now just a mere shadow of their former selves. Their traditional customs appear to be outdated and their body art sets them apart from society. A young and unsuspecting student named Ryou accidentally gets involved with the Yakuza, finding himself caught up in dark schemes. He is lured by the allure of power and indulgence, descending further into a world of crime, exploitation, and brutality. Little did Ryou know that once you're part of the Yakuza, there's no turning back! (Japan Film Fest Hamburg)

Produced in Japan in 2005 and released on February 24, 2006, Maid in Akihabara is a 6-episode series set in the cyber city of Tokyo. Each episode has a duration of approximately 15 minutes. The story follows Saki, a woman seeking employment to escape a bar gang she previously had dealings with. She secures a position at a Maid cafe named Meido no myage (Maid's gift) as the third maid on staff. Along with being homeless, she resides in a 24-hour internet cafe.

Kubota Tamotsu, a struggling university student burdened with debt, finds himself in a dire situation after falling victim to a scam in an attempt to alleviate his financial troubles. Fortunately, he crosses paths with a dealer of criminal tools who offers him a way out. Together, they navigate the criminal underworld of Ikebukuro, where they encounter three dominant groups: the Jinbokai yakuza, Gozugumi yakuza, and the Taiga group specializing in bank transfer scams. Amidst these factions, a mysterious duo emerges, adding another layer of intrigue to their dangerous world.

Kitamura Kazuki and Hamada Gaku are set to star together in the upcoming BS Sky Perfect! drama series titled Hamon. The show will premiere on Fridays at 9pm starting on 9 January. Based on the award-winning novel by Kurokawa Hiroyuki, the series follows Kitamura's character, a clever and muscular gangster, who teams up with a consultant at a construction company, played by Hamada, to uncover the wrongdoings of criminals in Osaka. Kurokawa is excited about the adaptation, noting that the drama will offer a fresh perspective on the original story, thanks to the production by Sky Perfect and the creative freedom it allows.

A tantalizing thriller that explores the desires and seductions faced by four women and the objects of their affection. Now featuring English subtitles, Temptation of Eve draws inspiration from Hollywood's Basic Instinct, generating excitement and intrigue in a genre that has seldom been explored in Korean cinema.

Sato Tamio graduated from an Art University and has been employed as an art teacher at various schools. Despite never holding a permanent position, he feels disheartened by this. One day, he decides to visit a love hotel out of curiosity and meets Serika, whom he falls for instantly. The feeling is mutual, but there appears to be more to Serika than meets the eye.

Portrays the story of a former member of the yakuza who was recently released after serving a 14-year sentence. (News Yahoo)

In the midst of a scandal involving a valuable picture scroll owned by a religious group with 5 million followers, Kuwahara Yasuhiko, a former member of a criminal organization in Kobe, and Ninomiya Hiroyuki, a consultant in construction, find themselves entangled in a fierce confrontation against corrupt detectives, criminals, and an attractive owner of an art gallery. The question remains: who will come out victorious and claim the money from the affluent Buddhist priests?

Ken Kurono, a swindler known for his self-assurance, is under pressure to repay a loan from the yakuza loan shark Deebo within a week. Deebo is notorious for inflicting pain on those who fail to meet their financial obligations.

In this series, the conflict unfolds between the Kumoichi faction, led by Nizaemon Kumo, and the chief aide of the arsonist, Abe Shikibu. The elusive thief, Nizaemon, sets his sights on the concealed wealth in Ooku, with Takiyama as his target due to his significant influence in Ooku. At the same time, Shikibu delves into the mysterious secret hidden within Takiyama.

Izumi Hoshi, a high school student, experiences a sudden loss when her father passes away in an unexpected accident. One day, Sakuma, the leader of a small and struggling Yakuza group known as the Medaka Gumi in Asakusa, visits Izumi with other members of the gang. The death of their former boss has left the Medaka Gumi on the brink of falling apart. In a desperate attempt to save the gang, Sakuma asks Izumi, who is the only remaining distant relative of the former boss, to take on the role of the new leader. Initially taken aback, Izumi hesitates but eventually agrees to become the 8th leader of the Medaka Gumi. The police raise suspicions that her father's death could be a possible homicide, and a mysterious woman named Mayumi shows a keen interest in Izumi's father's photo at the funeral. Things escalate when the ruthless drug-dealing yakuza group, Hamaguchi Gumi, and a politician named Sandaiji Hajime, who is against drugs, become involved.

Takashi Hiyama is the manager of a cafe and has been raising his 4-year-old daughter alone since his wife Shoko passed away. Shoko was tragically killed by three 13-year-old boys several years ago. Despite being shielded by the Juvenile Act, the boys' actions resulted in Takashi and Shoko's mother facing intense media scrutiny. Despite the advice from Shoko's friend Kana Kurashina and cafe employee Yudai Chiba, Takashi decides to secretly search for the three boys. As the boys start to face mysterious attempts on their lives, detectives begin to suspect Takashi due to his previous threats of seeking revenge if the boys were not held accountable. In the midst of the chaos, Takashi is determined to uncover the truth about the boys' actions.

The plot of this series revolves around the novel "Bakabon no Papa yori Bakana Papa," depicting the daily lives of the writer, her father who is a manga illustrator, and other members of their family.

Having been laid off from his position at a securities firm in Tokyo, Tsunezue Riichi decides to return to his hometown to seek employment. He is able to secure a job at GALAXYZ, a company that comes highly recommended by his parents. GALAXYZ is a recently established company led by young entrepreneur Kui Yoshiaki. However, Riichi soon discovers that the company is involved in producing adult videos. Even the office ladies at GALAXYZ are aspiring adult film actresses. The entire company revolves around the adult video industry, with filming even taking place within the office. Despite this, Riichi becomes intrigued by a charming young woman named Momoko, who also dreams of becoming an adult video actress.

This series tells the story of the significant changes in society in the Northeast region from 1986 until now, focusing on the rise of organized crime in a northern city during this period. It serves as a unique tribute to the 31 years since the beginning of Reform and Opening Up, prompting deep contemplation on the successes and setbacks experienced over the past few decades. (Baidu Baike)

The series follows the conflict between the notorious thief Kumogiri Nizaemon and the outlaw Abe Shikibu

Benzo and Soji are colleagues at a delivery service that is actually a group of thieves known as Akame. They target corrupt individuals and steal their ill-gotten gains. The leader of Akame, Tatsugoro, is highly respected by both Benzo and Soji. When Tatsugoro unexpectedly passes away, he leaves a conflicting message about who should take over Akame. Despite their confusion, Benzo and Soji decide to part ways with Akame and embark on a significant mission.

Following his father's example, Takeshima Ryota is now employed as a correctional officer at Kitakanto Prison. During his time there, he has observed instances of misconduct among certain officers, including turning a blind eye to bullying and gambling. The situation takes a turn when Nakui Soichi is appointed as the new prison warden. Soichi tasks Ryota with the mission of rooting out the corruption within the prison system.

After dedicating 25 years to the Crown Hotel Group, a prominent hotel chain in Japan, Kazuma Hanazawa finally achieves his goal of becoming a manager. His excitement quickly fades as he arrives at his new assignment and is greeted by intimidating individuals and foreign employees. To his surprise, the hotel's owner, Kido Nakazo, is a powerful figure in the yakuza. The hotel primarily caters to yakuza members who are typically unwelcome at other establishments due to their tattoos. This realization dawns on Hanazawa as he discovers that the hotel is essentially managed by Nakazo's associates, serving as a haven for yakuza gatherings. The hotel has earned the nickname "Prison Hotel" due to its reputation among the public.

After graduating from a prestigious university, Makoto Kusano secured a position at a large corporation, setting sail on what appeared to be a promising career path. However, his fortunes took a sharp turn when he was laid off due to the collapse of Lehman Brothers, a mere six months into his new job. Adding to his woes, his father fell ill and required costly medical treatment not covered by insurance. Compounding matters, a bank began pressuring him to repay his student loan, plunging him into dire straits. In a stroke of desperation, Makoto Kusano spotted a job offering lucrative pay, only to find out that it entailed withdrawing funds from the bank accounts of elderly victims of voice phishing scams.

Detective Shirato Takamasa works in the Investigation Cooperation Section of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. His specialty lies in identifying wanted criminals solely based on their facial features. One day, he comes across the face of Sunami, a former senior detective who died under mysterious circumstances four years ago.

Takato Natsu, a well-known writer for the screen, resides with her spouse Shogo, who has transitioned from a television station director to her current role as manager. Natsu struggles to contain her intense sexual urges and ends up engaging in a romantic relationship with Theatre Director Shizawa. Feeling stifled by her husband's attempts to manipulate her and meddle in her professional life, Natsu decides to leave her marital home. (

Six captivating short episodes derived from well-known literary short novels by renowned authors.

Based on the book series "The Incredible Grandmother" by Mariko Hayashi.

The story follows Takano, a short man who works as a professional locksmith, and a tall woman he meets in Bangkok named Eiko Kosaka. Despite being a foot taller than him, Takano falls for Eiko but keeps his feelings hidden due to his height insecurities. Their paths cross again in Tokyo, leading to the development of mutual feelings between them. The plot is adapted from the newspaper novel "Kimi wo Miagete" by Yamada Taichi.

Tachibana Tamako, also known as Maya, is a seasoned member of the Criminal Investigation division within the Kyoto Prefectural Police. She has a reputation for being a devoted enthusiast of maps and possesses an unparalleled knowledge of every corner of Kyoto that can be depicted on a map. Her exceptional talent as a "human GPS" is utilized by the police in creating meticulous investigation maps that are capable of debunking any false alibis. Despite her invaluable skills, there are instances when Tamako is absent from a crime scene because she has stumbled upon a location that has yet to be documented on a map. Surprisingly, this marks Maya's debut in a television drama series. With the captivating setting of Kyoto, there are compelling reasons to tune in to "Sousa Chizu no Onna" this autumn.

In the novel "Akumu no Drive" by Kinoshita Hanta, a retired professional boxer and a failed comedian join forces to establish a transportation company. Initially, they acquire a vehicle and employ it to outsmart their adversaries.

Kinami has been chosen to portray the role of Hita Nanase, a housemaid who possesses the supernatural gift of telepathy, enabling her to unveil the hidden truths within the households she serves. The character was formerly portrayed by Takigawa Yumi and Hori Chiemi.

Drawing inspiration from Hideo Aiba's novel "Chi no Wadachi."

Yayoi, a licensed nurse at Hoshimigaoka Hospital, harbors a hidden past that she keeps to herself. Abandoned by her parents at a young age, she grew up in foster care, cherishing the hospital as her home. Despite her loneliness, she remains kind-hearted, avoiding conflict and immersing herself in her work. When Todo joins as the new head nurse, Yayoi initially resists her strong-willed approach but eventually finds herself drawn to Todo's presence. With Todo's influence, Yayoi is able to let go of her past and embrace a new beginning on her own terms.

Natsuko Kotani seemed destined for deceit, while Tetsuko Ishida was a distant family member known for her integrity as a lawyer. Whenever Natsuko caused problems, Tetsuko was always called upon to resolve the situations. Feeling exploited by Natsuko, Tetsuko, who led a mundane life, started to undergo a transformation.

Set in 1955, a decade after the end of World War II, the story follows government officials at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) as they work towards making Japan as prosperous as the western world. The plot centers on Kazakoshi Shingo, also known as "Mr. Ministry of International Trade and Industry", and explores the conflict between the "industry supporters" advocating for the protection of national industry, and the "trade supporters" pushing for free trade to globalize the country. The drama received accolades at the 62nd Television Drama Academy Awards, with Sakai Masato winning Best Supporting Actor and Hirano Shunichi, Oka Susumu, and Matsuda Ayato winning Best Directors. (source: d-addicts)

After her adoptive mother, Atsuta Otomi, passed away, Endo Yuriko decides to return to her family home. She is not coming back out of concern for her father, Ryohei, who has been struggling since his wife's death. Yuriko has made the difficult decision to divorce her husband, Hiroyuki. However, upon her return, a young woman named Imoto Sachie appears at the house, claiming to have been sent by Otomi to assist with household chores until the 49th day. Sachie also reveals Otomi's wish for a celebratory feast rather than a traditional Buddhist memorial service on her 49th day. Initially hesitant, father and daughter eventually warm up to the idea after discovering a recipe left behind by Otomi.

Harashima Manji holds a typical position as a section chief at a small to medium-sized business that serves as a subcontractor for a prominent electronics company. Upon stumbling upon irregularities in a string of personnel shifts, he becomes entangled in a battle against a formidable adversary.

One day, Fujimaki Daisuke, a mundane middle-aged office worker at a trading company, is instructed to temporarily join the cheering squad at Asunaro University instead of facing a layoff. The company president's alma mater's cheering squad is at risk of disbandment. During a meeting with alumni, Fujimaki is appointed as the head of the cheering squad. He is thrust into this new role, learning the traditional customs such as always wearing the school uniform, saying "Ossu" in response, and following the seniors' instructions. Under the guidance of old boy Saito Yuichi, Fujimaki becomes captivated by the profound philosophy of providing support in a tangible way.

In Kabukicho, Tokyo, a hit-and-run incident takes place. Hamamoto Junpei, a bartender who witnessed the accident, discovers that the man arrested is not the same person he saw at the scene. It appears that the true culprit is internationally renowned cellist Minato Keiji, with his brother taking the blame. Seeking a quick profit, Junpei and Tomoki, a host he considers a younger brother, decide to extort Minato. However, Minato's manager Yuko intervenes, causing Junpei to back down in the face of her authority. On the flip side, Yuko becomes intrigued by Junpei's personality. Junpei is someone universally liked and impossible to despise. Soon, a formidable adversary of Yuko's appears unexpectedly. This chance encounter between individuals from different worlds draws in those around them: Minato; Mizuki, a hostess who followed Tomoki to Tokyo; Miki, the owner of the Korean club where Junpei is employed; Kosaka, Miki's former gangster boyfriend; and Tomoka, Minato's niece who is studying art at university. An upheaval that will reverberate throughout Japan is on the horizon.

Kanoko Saho loses her job at her father's company, Fawn, despite her dedication to the manufacturing industry. The dismissal appears to be influenced by a mysterious figure known as a "headhunter". Watari Kaori, who identifies as a headhunter, approaches Saho with an opportunity. Consequently, Saho joins the headhunting firm "Forteflows" alongside Watari. Saho now faces clients directly as a dark cloud looms over Fawn.

Kano Teppei, a medical sales representative, has been leading a simple life. However, his world is turned upside down when he discovers that his wife has been concealing a 4.8 billion yen (~45.7M USD) inheritance from her grandmother that she received 24 years ago. As Teppei navigates challenges at work, he reflects on their marriage. This story is inspired by Shiraishi Kazufumi's novel with the same title.

Shimura Eriko, a successful professional, is employed by a large trading company where she holds a position equal to that of her male colleagues. Despite her beauty and impressive education, Eriko's only major concern is her lack of female friends. She finds solace in reading a popular journal written by a housewife influencer her age on social media. One day, Eriko crosses paths with Maruo Shoko, the author of the diary, who also resides nearby and shares her struggle of not having female friends. Their commonality leads to a quick and close friendship, but a certain incident causes their relationship to take an unexpected turn. (Jdramas.wordpress.com)

Kikuchi Izumi is a 38-year-old editor and food writer who is employed at a small publishing house. She has not been in contact with her long-term partner for the past 5 months, ever since lending him 2 million yen. One day, out of the blue, she receives a phone call from an elderly woman who proceeds to berate her. To Izumi's surprise, the same woman ends up sharing a cab with her, and they are both headed to the same destination. Through their conversation, Izumi discovers that the woman is Nakajima Haruko, the esteemed owner of a renowned beauty clinic in Tokyo.

Set in the Nagahara branch of Tokyo Daiichi Bank, the narrative unfolds within a small branch catering to small, medium, and micro enterprises. The team comprises Masahiro Nishiki, a demoted assistant manager, a diligent employee supporting his family, a cunning branch manager, a performance-driven assistant manager willing to resort to harassment, and a skilled operations ace, each with their own distinct personalities and challenges. When one million yen mysteriously disappears from the branch, suspicions fall on a female employee, while Nishiki, tasked with investigating the incident, unexpectedly vanishes. As the two mysteries intertwine, the truth behind the cash loss and Nishiki's disappearance gradually come to light. Discover the shocking revelations behind the "fraud" and Nishiki's enigmatic absence in this captivating tale.

The narrative of the series unfolds in two different eras, specifically in 1995 and 2005. It centers around the experiences, relationships with childhood companions, and the consequences of the choices made by a formidable and unmatched Yakuza fighter characterized by a deep commitment to justice, obligation, and compassion. This information was sourced from variety.com and is inspired by the SEGA video game series Yakuza Like a Dragon. Additionally, it is a collaborative production involving the United States.

The infamous assassin known as "Flying Dagger" begins a romantic relationship with "Wild Dog," who is not quite what he appears to be. As both individuals conceal their true selves, they find themselves irresistibly drawn to one another. However, they soon encounter peril as gangsters pursue them. Will "Flying Dagger" disclose his hidden identity? Can they navigate the challenges and preserve their love? (STRONGBERRY at Vimeo)