Ryoko Yonekura’s Doctor X to Boost TV Asahi’s Drama Special Series

Originally a model, Yonekura transitioned to acting in 1999. Despite appearing in numerous film and television productions, she has starred in fewer than ten movies throughout her career.

The theatrical version of TV Asahi’s leading detective drama “The Negotiator ~THE NEGOTIATOR~”, titled “The Negotiator THE MOVIE: Brain Battle at 10,000 Meters”, was released in 2010. Had it been a hit, the drama series might have continued. However, with box office earnings of 630 million yen, it struggled to expand, and no sequels were aired. For Yukura, achieving “revenge” through the theatrical version of a representative work is crucial. She is expected to approach the promotion with extraordinary determination.

Moreover, TV Asahi’s decision to launch the theatrical version of their prized series “Doctor X” this time appears driven not only by Yukura’s intentions but also by their desire to halt the “losing streak” of their popular drama series in cinemas.

“In the fall of 2020, ‘Seven Secretaries’, featuring women secretaries excelling in their roles, averaged 14.5% over 8 episodes. Riding on that momentum, they released the theatrical version ‘Seven Secretaries THE MOVIE’ in 2022, but it fell short with box office earnings of 660 million yen. Last year, they released the theatrical version of the popular drama series ‘Woman of Forensic Science’ starring Yasuko Sawaguchi (59), but it ended with box office earnings of 540 million yen.

Originally scheduled for release in June last year, ‘Emergency Interrogation Room THE FINAL’ starring Yuki Amami (56) as the conclusion of the popular series ‘Emergency Interrogation Room’, was postponed due to the arrest and prosecution of Kabuki actor Sarunaka Ichikawa (48) for aiding his parents’ suicide. It was only in June this year that the reshoot with Makiji Ishimaru (58) as Ichikawa’s substitute was decided, but the release date remains uncertain. Therefore, there is a strong desire to ensure the success of ‘Doctor X’ in theaters. They are expected to aggressively promote the film to viewers from an early stage.” (Movie Industry Insider)

Will Yukura be able to beautifully conclude her representative work?

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