Yuki Saitō Radiates Allure at Hosoda’s New Film Premiere With Mana Ashida

Saitō Yuki showering director Mamoru Hosoda with praise

“In the work of expression, I strongly feel the importance of striving for perfection and aiming for heights with no gaps. In that sense, as just one fan of Director Hosoda, I was deeply inspired and moved.”

So spoke actress Yuki Saitō (59), turning a passionate gaze toward director Mamoru Hosoda (58).

On November 5, at Tokyo National Museum’s Hyokeikan in Ueno, Tokyo, the Japan Premiere of Hosoda’s new anime film Endless Scarlet was held. Mana Ashida (21), who voices the protagonist Princess Scarlet, and Masaki Okada (36), who plays Sei—the kind-hearted young man who journeys with her—appeared first. They were followed shortly after by Shōta Sometani (33), Kōtarō Yoshida (66), Yutaka Matsushige (62), and other distinguished cast members. Including Hosoda, eight people appeared on stage, with only Ashida and Saitō representing the women.

“Ashida wore a sparkling white dress with stones and appeared on the balcony of Hyokeikan with Okada. It looked like a princess waving to her people—very elegant.

Saitō, on the other hand, wore a black shoulder-revealing dress with green lace—a look overflowing with seductive charm.” (Fashion magazine reporter)

The film tells the story of Scarlet, who fails to avenge her father, dies, then rises again in the “Land of the Dead” to once more pursue her enemy. Saitō plays Gertrude, the queen consort of the ruthless King Claudius.

When each performer gave opening remarks, Saitō began:

“Above all, I am truly grateful to have been involved in Director Hosoda’s world of storytelling.”

She continued, praising Hosoda’s work:

“Of course, the brilliance and beauty of the visuals are something I have always felt strongly in all of his works. But beyond that, I sensed a beautifully expressed, piercing, straightforward strength—something that breaks through and moves forward.”

Closing her greeting, she added—referring back to her opening line—

“Sorry, I talked too long. I was inspired by Yoshida (Kōtarō)’s long speeches.”

The audience burst into laughter. While much of the crowd’s attention was fixed on Ashida’s elegant beauty, many were also captivated by Saitō’s alluring presence.