"Murderous Encounter"
Nippon TV, Japan’s leading multiplatform entertainment powerhouse, is set to unveil two brand-new scripted formats for MIPCOM: "Murderous Encounter" (60 min. x 10 eps), a dark romantic mystery centered on two journalists, and "The Reluctant Preacher" (60 min. x 10 eps), a fast-paced comedy about an unmotivated high school teacher. The announcement was made today by Sayako Aoki, Head of International Sales, Content Business and Distribution at Nippon TV.
Aoki pointed out some of the key similarities between the two titles: ‘We are proud to introduce two new scripted formats that, while distinct in their tone, setting, and approach, share a powerful common thread: a female protagonist's journey to overcome personal challenges and fight against injustice and crime. With fresh perspectives and narratives that build tension towards a thrilling finale, we are confident that these stories can be successfully localized, captivating audiences in any market," expressed.
Both series have already demonstrated strong viewer appeal, with their first episodes surpassing two million total views on AVOD platforms. These results suggest that Nippon TV’s latest formats, "Murderous Encounter" and "The Reluctant Preacher," are well positioned to resonate with international audiences and expand the company’s track record of global scripted success.
"Murderous Encounter" is a romantic crime thriller that follows two journalists who fall in love while investigating a sensational murder case, until suspicion arises that he may in fact be the serial killer. Riding the wave of today’s crime suspense boom, the series distinguishes itself by putting journalists at the center of the investigation while delving into themes of media ethics, trust, and the blind spots of love. Produced by the acclaimed creators of "My Lover’s Secret" and "Your Turn to Kill," the series employs the team’s signature storytelling style: planting subtle hints early on to keep audiences guessing until a climactic reveal. This method is fully on display in "Murderous Encounter," promising a finale that is both surprising and satisfying.
By contrast, "The Reluctant Preacher" shifts into comedy with a story about an unmotivated teacher assigned to a troubled class, who unexpectedly transforms into a passionate preacher delivering bold sermons that inspire her students and shake up the entire school. While humor drives the narrative, the series also addresses serious issues such as family struggles, bullying, and the protagonist’s trauma with social media. With its combination of sharp, fast-paced dialogue and a relatable lead, the show turns pressing social themes into an engaging, entertaining story. Its success in Japan has been remarkable, ranking #1 in its time slot among children and #2 among teenagers. Moreover, Netflix has acquired global streaming rights, making the full series available worldwide.
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