Overview of Bullet Train Explosion

Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Shinji Higuchi, known for his work on blockbusters such as Shin Godzilla and Attack on Titan, Bullet Train Explosion marks a notable addition to Netflix’s lineup of Japanese films. The production features Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, a prominent singer and actor, as one of its leads.

Plot Synopsis

Set aboard a high-speed shinkansen (bullet train) on a route to Tokyo, the film presents a gripping narrative filled with suspense as the passengers find themselves facing a bomb threat. The tension escalates when it becomes clear that the bombs will detonate if the train’s speed drops below 100 kilometers per hour, placing everyone on board in imminent danger.

This film serves as a reboot of the 1975 classic The Bullet Train, which also inspired the iconic Hollywood film Speed featuring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.

Thematic Depth

Apart from action-packed sequences, Bullet Train Explosion delves into profound moral questions regarding the value and dignity of human life. Higuchi highlights this intent in an interview with Deadline, expressing, “When we make a film, we can do many things… We have a responsibility of making those decisions.”

Personal Reflections and Inspirations

Higuchi’s reflective approach to filmmaking is rooted in his own adolescent experiences. He shares, “I hated this world… but I was interested in living ahead,” emphasizing his desire to inspire hope through storytelling.

Despite initially working in Japan’s public service sector, Higuchi’s passion for cinema ignited a quest for creative fulfillment. He revealed, “…I just gave up on those academic paths… the answer was, basically, to go into films.”

The influences of legendary filmmakers like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, alongside the iconic status of Eiji Tsuburaya in Japanese cinema, are evident in Higuchi’s ambition. He reflects, “It was very shocking to know that in America, you can make a film in your twenties.”

The Long Journey to Production

Higuchi’s dreams of bringing Bullet Train Explosion to life have spanned nearly two decades. Casting Kusanagi was particularly challenging due to his previous management hurdles, which made it difficult for the actor to be considered for film roles after departing from his former agency.

Higuchi elaborates on this challenge, stating, “When you’re making film in Japan, there are limitations and rules… production companies in Japan were afraid that they might offend” Kusanagi’s former management. The emergence of Netflix as a major player in the Japanese entertainment landscape provided the necessary opportunity to realize this project.

A Vision for Original Storytelling

As Higuchi looks to the future, he expresses a desire to focus on original screenplays while acknowledging the financial difficulties in securing funding for such projects. “What’s very challenging… is not just funding… audiences want something reassuring,” he remarks, stressing the importance of compelling narratives to attract investment.

Higuchi aspires to create unique stories that resonate deeply with audiences, identifying the narrow path that successful creators must navigate in Japan’s film industry.