Yuji Oda’s “Bayside Shakedown” Revival Surprises Even Those in the Industry

On December 4, it was announced on the film’s official website that actor Yuji Oda will star in the new film of the popular series “Odoru Daisousasen” (Bayside Shakedown).

Odoru–” was broadcast on Fuji Television Network in 1997 and became a big hit. The film version “Bayside Shakedown 2: Rainbow Bridge! (2003), which grossed 17.35 billion yen at the box office, is the highest grossing live-action Japanese film of all time. (2003) grossed 17.35 billion yen, which remains the highest-grossing live-action Japanese film of all time.

His new film, “Bayside Shakedown: N.E.W.” is scheduled for release in 2014. It has been 14 years since Oda starred in the film, since the theatrical version in ’12.

Detective Aoshima’s character is too strong.

In a 31-second video uploaded to the official website, the words “THE ODORU LEGEND STILL CONTINUES” appear, with Yuji Oda’s character, Toshikazu Aoshima, wearing his trademark green coat and answering a phone call with, 

“Yes, Aoshima speaking.”

As a precursor, the Odoru series saw the release of movies featuring Toshiro Yanagiba’s character, Shinji Muroi, titled Muroi Shinji: Yaburezaru Mono and Muroi Shinji: Ikitsudzukeru Mono, with the latter featuring a scene with Aoshima.

“However, many in the industry are still surprised by Oda’s return. This is partly because Aoshima’s character is so iconic, and it was rumored that Oda had been hesitant to return to the role. There were also long-standing rumors of tension between Oda and Yanagiba.” (According to entertainment industry sources)

As for the rumored discord between Oda and Yanagiba, it seems there’s little to worry about. In the past, Oda was known for voicing his opinions to directors and producers regarding the script and direction. On the other hand, Yanagiba also had a reputation for speaking up about filming schedules, sometimes requesting adjustments like, 

“We’ve already filmed something similar, so this should be fine.” 

When the two were on set together, it was inevitable that they would clash at times.

 

 

“In terms of creating a better work together, they are on the same page. They respect each other, so the ‘discord’ rumors are not true. Oda is 57 this year, and Yanagiba is 63. They’ve both mellowed out a lot (laughs). They wouldn’t waste energy on unnecessary conflicts,” said a TV station source.

Last July, Oda took on a supporting role in the TV Asahi drama Shikkou‼ Inu to Watashi to Shikkoukan, where he assisted the lead, Sayuri Ito.

Fuji Television was eagerly courting her.

 

According to those involved on set:

“There was no ‘me, me, me’ attitude from Oda, trying to overshadow the lead, Ito. He sat quietly in a corner, always smiling. He was surprisingly dark-skinned, and it was striking. There was a heartwarming moment where co-star Kenji Nakajima repeatedly interacted with Oda, telling him, ‘Indian movies are really interesting,’ to which Oda responded, ‘Okay, I’ll watch one next time.’”

On the other hand, it was shocking to see Oda step down from the lead role. According to the earlier entertainment industry source:

“People thought Oda would only take lead roles. His fee is among the highest, and given the current TV industry downturn, it made some wonder if even someone of Oda’s stature was struggling.”

Some voices pointed to Oda’s decline, but there’s no doubt that his “Odoru Daisosasen” comeback will help restore his presence.

“Apparently, Fuji really pushed hard to get him. It’s a mega-content, so a big hit is almost guaranteed,” said a reporter from a sports newspaper’s entertainment section.

Oda has also been confirmed to star in an upcoming TV Asahi special drama, where he will play a detective role. However, this character will be different from Aoshima, as he will portray someone with physical disabilities. Comparing both roles could be interesting.

“The thing is, Yuji Oda is only truly himself when he’s the lead.”

The question remains whether he can bring this energy back into a leading role.