Takayuki Yamada Assembles Star-Studded Panel for 14,000-Applicant Casting Call
Actor and producer Takayuki Yamada has brought together a high-profile guest panel featuring Tadanobu Asano, Akari Takaishi, and Tsuyoshi Muro for his upcoming talent audition project, according to a report published by Sports Hochi. Titled “THE OPEN CALL,” the initiative aims to discover new talent for an original feature film scheduled for release in 2027.
The ambitious casting call drew approximately 14,000 applicants ranging in age from their teens to their 80s, all vying for roles in the upcoming cinematic production. Industry veterans Yamada, Asano, Takaishi, and Muro participated directly in evaluating and interacting with the hopefuls during the rigorous screening process.
Broadening the Demographic Scope of Japanese Cinema
The casting initiative represents a unique collaborative effort spearheaded by Yamada, who has articulated a clear vision for discovering fresh faces across multiple generations. According to coverage by Sports Hochi, the project specifically seeks to unearth new stars in their 50s and 60s alongside younger performers, broadening the traditional demographic scope of Japanese cinematic auditions.
Inside the Minds of Industry Veterans
During the production, the celebrity guest judges offered candid insights into the realities of the acting profession.
When asked “What is an actor?”, Asano described the craft by stating, “I think they are strange people. Elusive people who struggle while dealing with infinite answers,” as quoted by Sports Hochi. Takaishi shared her perspective on the vocation, calling it “a dream that keeps sparkling.” Meanwhile, Muro offered a characteristically pragmatic yet enthusiastic view, describing acting as “mostly lies, but it is extremely fun and rewarding,” according to Sports Hochi.
Documenting the Journey on Lemino
Audience members and fans will be able to follow the entire journey through the video streaming service Lemino, which has slated the premiere of the audition program for October 1, as reported by Sports Hochi. The documentary-style series provides an intimate look at how established industry leaders assess raw acting talent and mentor aspirants through demanding performance trials.
The Road to the 2027 Theatrical Premiere
The behind-the-scenes reality of the selection process, the challenges faced by the 14,000 applicants, and the commentary from the celebrity judging panel will be broadcast to home audiences starting October 1 on Lemino. The streaming release serves as the primary window into Yamada’s ongoing filmmaking endeavor ahead of the feature film’s planned 2027 theatrical release.
Further updates regarding the selected cast members, production milestones, and official theatrical release dates will be announced through official project channels as production moves forward. Viewers can access the streaming episodes directly on Lemino when the series debuts.
Worth a look