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The popular Japanese drama “Solitary Gourmet” is set to make its big-screen debut. The 61-year-old veteran actor Yutaka Matsushige will not only continue his role as the main character but will also take on the roles of director and screenwriter, achieving the remarkable feat of writing, directing, and starring in the film. The transition from a low-budget late-night TV drama to a full-fledged movie has fans eagerly anticipating the release. However, original author Masayuki Kusumi announced on July 12 that he would not be involved in the movie, a revelation that caused a stir online in Japan.
On July 10, Yutaka Matsushige attended a press conference for the “Solitary Gourmet” movie, officially announcing that he would not only star in the film but also serve as its director, co-writing the script with Yoshihiro Taguchi. Matsushige has been part of the series since its inception in 2012, filming 12 seasons to date. In the drama, he plays Goro Inogashira, a character who showcases his unique charm while searching for delicious food, gaining widespread popularity both domestically and internationally. At the press conference, Matsushige humorously remarked, “If this movie fails, I might not do it again.” He revealed that the film would emphasize a “dramatic movie” style, incorporating elements of romance and adventure, heightening audience expectations.
“Solitary Gourmet” is based on the manga of the same name by Masayuki Kusumi, which depicts the daily life of office worker Goro Inogashira as he searches for food. The restaurants featured in the series are real establishments, allowing viewers not only to see the food on screen but also to visit these locations themselves. While Matsushige is the series’ regular star, other actors typically make guest appearances, and each episode concludes with Kusumi himself appearing in a food segment.
Japanese netizens expressed both regret and anticipation regarding Kusumi’s announcement that he would not appear in the movie. Some felt that “Solitary Gourmet” would be missing something without him, while others hoped that he might make an appearance during promotional activities. Specific details about the movie’s content remain under wraps, with more information and plot details yet to be disclosed.