Ayano Go Drives 46 Million Yen Ferrari and Delivers Intense Performance on Jimenshi-tachi Set
Even after more than a month since its release, the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
“Jimenshi-tachi” began streaming exclusively on Netflix on July 25. Directed by Hitoshi One, this adaptation of the crime novel of the same name by Ko Shinjo, which was considered difficult to visualize, features a double lead performance by Go Ayano (42) and Etsushi Toyokawa (62), along with notable performances from actors such as Pierre Taki (57) and Lily Franky (60), which have also been a topic of discussion.
“Based on the true story of the ‘Sekisui House Ground Fraud Incident’ that occurred in 2017, the drama depicts ‘ground fraudsters,’ a criminal group that perpetrates real estate scams. Upon its release on Netflix, it quickly achieved the top spot in the domestic rankings and has remained there ever since.
While the production cost for a single season of a commercial TV drama is said to be around 30 million yen, ‘The Ground Fraudsters’ had an enormous budget of 100 million yen per episode. The meticulously pursued realistic and intense visuals, combined with the remarkable performances of an all-star cast, capture the audience’s attention and hold it tightly.” (Television magazine writer)
The filming of this hot drama took place in mid-September of last year, amidst the lingering summer heat. Even after 9 p.m., the temperature in Tokyo’s Shinjuku area remained close to 30 degrees Celsius, with the filming crew gathered in the area. Leading the scene was Go Ayano, the star of the show, with actor Kaito Yoshimura (31) also visible nearby.
With nearly 30 staff members present, extensive filming preparations were underway. Soon after, shooting began with a Ferrari, specifically a F8 Spider worth an estimated 46 million yen a truly luxurious location shoot.
“On this day, an important mid-season scene was being filmed where Ayano infiltrates a host club. During breaks, Ayano relaxed by smoking with Yoshimura and resting in the agency’s shuttle car. However, when the camera was rolling, he delivered a gripping performance that impressed Director Jin. Even though the filming continued past midnight, Ayano showed no signs of fatigue and completed his scenes with determination,” said a filming staff member.
Ayano, who demonstrated his high acting skills once again in “Jimenshi-tachi,” is set to appear in two upcoming films, “Maru” and “Honshin,” this fall and winter. In his personal life, he also welcomed his first child with Yui Sakuma (29) this spring, and his progress seems poised to continue.
PHOTO: Takayuki Ogawauchi