First Look '5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND' Revealed, Here Are the Main Cast and Release Date!

Kapanlagi.com - The legendary anime film by Makoto Shinkai, 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND, will be coming in a live-action version and is scheduled to be released in Japanese theaters starting October 10, 2025. This adaptation marks 18 years since the release of the animated version in 2007 and will present a longer and more cinematic story, with a duration of about two hours. The film is expected to depict the emotions and dynamics of the relationship between its two main characters, Takaki and Akari, in a deeper way.

The actor playing Takaki Tono will be Hokuto Matsumura, a member of the popular boy band SixTONES. Matsumura is previously known for his role as Souta Munakata in the anime SUZUME, and this film will be his live-action debut as the lead in a feature film. Matsumura's casting has generated high enthusiasm among fans, who hope his interpretation can capture the longing and inner conflict of Takaki's character.

This adaptation project is led by director Yoshiyuki Okuyama, with the script written by Ayako Suzuki. Makoto Shinkai himself is directly involved in the production process as a creative advisor. Shinkai's presence is believed to maintain the emotional core and distinctive atmosphere of the original story, even though it is now developed with a different cinematic approach.

1. Direct Involvement of Makoto Shinkai

In this live-action adaptation project, Makoto Shinkai remains an important figure in maintaining the quality of the story. Although he was hesitant because he felt the anime version was not perfect, he was touched to see how this film is still appreciated by audiences to this day. This became a great motivation for him to be directly involved in order to preserve the emotional value in its new version.

Shinkai also revealed that the collaboration with director Yoshiyuki Okuyama and screenwriter Ayako Suzuki is a promising combination. He is optimistic that this adaptation will not only satisfy long-time fans but also reach new audiences who are not yet familiar with the story of 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND.

2. Hokuto Matsumura Cast as Takaki Tono

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Hokuto Matsumura was chosen as the main actor for this live-action after successfully attracting attention through his role as Souta Munakata in the anime SUZUME. The role of Takaki Tono poses a significant challenge for him as this character is laden with emotions, with a story that explores longing, loss, and hope from childhood to adulthood.

Makoto Shinkai himself gave his blessing for Matsumura's casting and referred to him as a "trusted actor". Many fans hope that Matsumura can convey the layers of Takaki's emotions deeply, especially in scenes that depict the emotional and physical distance between the two main characters.

3. Screenplay Written by Ayako Suzuki

The live-action screenplay for 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND was written by Ayako Suzuki, known for her emotionally charged scripts such as AI NI RANBOU and BISHU. With her experience, Suzuki is trusted to adapt the originally dense and symbolic narrative into a two-hour story without losing its original meaning.

Suzuki is said to strive to maintain the classic three-act structure found in the anime version while expanding the setting and character dynamics to feel more realistic in the live-action version. This adaptation promises to remain faithful to the original story but with a more touching and profound approach for contemporary audiences.

4. Synopsis of a Tale Full of Melancholy

5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND follows the story of Takaki Tono and Akari Shinohara, two childhood friends separated by distance. Although physically apart, they maintain their connection through letters. However, as time goes by, the emotional distance between them becomes more palpable, and fate begins to test whether they will be able to meet again.

This story is divided into three acts: middle school when Takaki tries to meet Akari during a snowstorm, high school when Takaki meets Kanae who falls in love with him, and adulthood when Takaki faces an empty life while constantly reminiscing about his past. The story explores themes of long-distance love, loss, and unexpressed longing.

(kpl/ute)