I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 205: The opening theme of "Midnight Diner"! The healing power of the guitar! A farce by Tokyo TV!

When President Shimadzu's figure disappeared behind the heavy wooden door, the tension that had been stretched to its limit in the conference room finally eased with a soft "hum".

Sakata Nobuhiko, Asumi, and Takada Toshihide almost simultaneously let out a long breath, a breath that was a mixture of exhaustion as if they had survived a disaster and a shock that had completely overturned their understanding.

“Hiroshi-kun…” Asumi was the first to break the silence. He turned his head, and his usually cheerful face was now filled with indescribable complex emotions. His eyes were like looking at a monster who had just returned from another dimension: “I only knew that you were good at making TV shows, good at writing comics, and good at making movies… but I never expected that you… you even know so much about things like elections?!”

“Yes, Hiroshi.” A genuine, almost awe-inspiring admiration appeared on Takada Toshihide’s face. “That ‘information cocoon’ you just mentioned is… terrifying. It’s not just a simple propaganda strategy; it’s… a blatant conspiracy that directly targets people’s hearts. I dare say that even those old politicians who have spent half their lives in Nagata Town might not be able to come up with such a… precise and vicious method.”

Hiroshi Nohara simply smiled calmly, his humility a stark contrast to his earlier domineering and charismatic demeanor.

"You two deputy directors are too kind." His tone was as calm as if the discussion that had just concerned the fate of the nation was merely an ordinary program planning meeting: "I was just amplifying some of the little tricks we use to analyze audience psychology when producing programs. In the end, whether it's the audience or the voters, what they want is a sense of being understood and recognized, isn't it?"

These words, spoken casually, sent a chill down the spines of the three powerful figures present.

They exchanged a glance and saw the same bitter smile in each other's eyes.

Tips?
This is no little trick; it's a dragon-slaying technique powerful enough to manipulate people's hearts!
"Alright, let's not talk about this anymore." Nobuhiko Sakata waved his hand with a smile. He walked to the window and looked at the city skyline outside, which was gradually being dyed golden by the setting sun. His eyes sparkled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming new era: "In any case, President Shimazu has finally made up his mind. Our TV Tokyo has finally found a true leader."

He turned around, looked at everyone present, and a genuine smile appeared on his face.

"Everyone, starting next month, I, Nobuhiko Sakata, will officially assume the position of president. I look forward to your continued guidance and support."

"President Sakata! You're too kind!" Asumi was the first to stand up and bowed respectfully to Nobuhiko Sakata. "It's an honor for all of us at TV Tokyo to have you take over as president! We will definitely give you our full support!"

"Yes, President Sakata." Takada Toshihide hurriedly stood up as well, glanced at Asumi, and then bowed his head and said loudly, "Don't worry, our production department will definitely become the sharpest knife in your hands!"

"Congratulations, President Sakata!" Hiroshi Nohara stood up and bowed deeply.

“Alright.” Nobuhiko Sakata first glanced at Hiroshi Nohara, then looked at the two capable men in front of him who had once belonged to different factions but were now fighting side by side for the same goal. An indescribable sense of pride welled up in his heart.

He knew his time had come.

"I wouldn't presume to offer guidance," Nobuhiko Sakata said with a smile, shaking his head. He cast his expectant and trusting gaze upon everyone present. "However, we must not forget President Shimazu's kindness in recognizing our talent. In this election, TV Tokyo must give it our all! This is not only for President Shimazu himself, but also for TV Tokyo, and for our 'Greater Tokyo Faction,' to secure a chance of survival in this impending storm!"

"Hi!" everyone responded in unison.

"But speaking of which," Nobuhiko Sakata's gaze finally settled on the young man who had remained calm throughout, a shrewd glint in his eyes—"Hiroshi-kun, now that the general direction of the election campaign has been set, then... specifically regarding our television programs, what do you think we should do to perfectly integrate President Shimazu's campaign philosophy with our programming? For example... for your upcoming 'Midnight Diner'?"

“That’s easy,” Hiroshi Nohara replied quickly, almost without thinking, as if the answer had been brewing in his mind countless times.

“We can immediately cut into a special interview segment, lasting about three to five minutes, after each episode of ‘Midnight Diner’ ends.” He looked at the expectant eyes of the audience and a confident smile appeared on his lips: “This segment will be called ‘President Shimadzu’s Midnight Chat’.”

"A late-night chat by the president of Shimadzu?" Asumi's eyes lit up instantly upon hearing this.

"Yes."

Hiroshi Nohara nodded and said, “For example, in the first episode, we talked about a yakuza boss and an octopus sausage, the core of which is ‘contrast’ and ‘the softness deep in one’s heart.’ So, in the interview segment, we can ask President Shimazu to talk about his understanding of ‘the complexity of human nature.’ He can share some stories of people he encountered when he was young who seemed fierce but were actually kind-hearted. Then, we can naturally extend this topic to his governing philosophy—‘Don’t judge people by their appearance or their status, but listen attentively to the voice deep in the heart of every citizen.’”

"For example, in the second episode, we tell the story of a female singer and cat food, with 'dreams' and 'perseverance' at its core. So, in the interview segment, we can invite President Shimadzu to talk about his support for 'young people's dreams.' He can recount how he went from an unknown young man to realizing his life's ideals step by step. Then, we can extend this topic to his campaign promise—'to provide a fairer and broader stage for all young people with dreams!'"

“Most importantly,” Hiroshi Nohara’s voice deepened and became powerful, “the entire set design for the interview segment must be highly consistent with the style of ‘Midnight Diner.’ Dim lighting, a wooden bar, a glass of sake, a small dish of snacks… We want the audience to feel that President Shimazu is not a high-and-mighty politician, but a friendly neighbor who is willing to have a heart-to-heart talk with them late at night. A close friend who understands all their loneliness and confusion.”

"In this way, we can subtly transfer the warmth and healing, the emotional resonance accumulated from 'Midnight Diner,' to President Shimazu. Those viewers moved by the story will unknowingly become President Shimazu's most loyal...voters!"

"Clap! Clap! Clap!"

No sooner had Hiroshi Nohara finished speaking than Asumi couldn’t hold back any longer. He slapped his thigh and clapped excitedly!

"Perfect! Absolutely perfect!" he exclaimed. "Hiroshi-kun! How do you even think of a brain?! This... this is simply a flawless publicity plan!"

“Yes, Hiroshi-kun.” Takada Toshihide also sincerely praised, “The way you combine the program content with your campaign philosophy so cleverly and subtly is truly… amazing.”

"That's it!" Nobuhiko Sakata slammed his hand on the table, his voice filled with excitement. "This election campaign will proceed exactly as Hiroshi-kun planned! I'm going to show that Tanaka Mikami guy what a real 'war of public opinion' looks like!"

He paused, then turned his expectant and pressure-filled gaze to Hiroshi Nohara.

"However, Hiroshi-kun, all of this depends on the success of the drama 'Midnight Diner.' Tonight is its premiere. Are you... confident?"

All eyes were once again focused on the young man.

Hiroshi Nohara smiled calmly, his clear eyes sparkling with an absolute confidence that could convince anyone.

"Of course." His answer was like a thunderclap.

……

Night, like the gentlest paintbrush, paints Tokyo, this steel jungle, with a hazy, dreamlike hue.

The clock hands slowly pointed to 8:50 p.m.

The huge office area of ​​Nohara Independent Production Department was brightly lit and bustling with activity, filled with the anticipation and restlessness unique to the eve of the holiday.

"Quick, quick! The beer and fried chicken are back! Everyone come and get them!"

Kitagawa Yao was like a happy butterfly, flitting between the various workstations. She was carrying a huge cardboard box filled with various steaming bento boxes, fried chicken, French fries, as well as ice-cold beer and cola.

"Section Chief Yamamoto! Yours is teriyaki chicken rice!"

"Director Sato! Your order is pork cutlet rice with double servings of miso soup!"

"And another thing! These are the same octopus sausages from 'Midnight Diner' that I specially bought from the convenience store downstairs! Everyone come and try them!"

"oh--!"

The entire office erupted in a thunderous cheer!
Everyone put down their work and gathered around in twos and threes. Their young and energetic faces were filled with excitement at the prospect of witnessing a miracle.

"I mean, you guys are exaggerating a bit," Yamamoto Takeshi said, taking the bento box from Kitagawa Yao with a wry smile. "It's just watching the premiere, why are you making such a fuss like it's a holiday?"

"Of course!" Kitagawa Yao puffed out her chest confidently, her pride making her stand out. "This is our Nohara Independent Production Department's first TV series of the year! And it's adapted by the department head himself! Of course, we're going to celebrate its birth in the grandest way possible!"

“That’s right! That’s right!” Several young employees next to her, who were also die-hard fans of the “Midnight Diner” manga, echoed her sentiments. They looked at the huge LCD TV on the wall with eyes full of fervent admiration.

"Let me tell you, I've been following 'Midnight Diner' since the very first chapter!" A female planner with black-rimmed glasses, who looked quite refined, was now explaining to her colleagues with the air of a seasoned veteran: "You guys have no idea how much of a sensation the first chapter, 'Red Sausage and Egg Omelet,' caused in the manga world! Everyone said that Director Nohara was simply a genius! He was able to depict the deep longing for childhood in the heart of such a seemingly fierce yakuza boss so... so tenderly!"

“Yes! Yes!” Another male screenwriter, who seemed somewhat introverted, chimed in. He pushed up his glasses, and his usually calm eyes now shone with a light of “resonance.” “And that ‘Cat Meal’! I cried buckets when I watched it! That female singer, even though she had nothing, she still had dreams, and that cat who was willing to eat cat food with her! That warmth in loneliness was just… so heart-wrenching!”

“I actually prefer the ‘Tea-Soaked Rice Sisters’!” A female employee who came all the way from the Organization Department to watch the fun said excitedly, “Although they say ‘men are all big pigs,’ every time they get together, they can’t help but discuss their relationship problems! Their depressing yet realistic conversations are a true reflection of us older single women!”

"That's why I said my biggest worry about the live-action version is the cast!" A look of concern appeared on the female planner's face: "Especially the boss! He's the soul of the entire comic! If the wrong actors are chosen, the whole series will be ruined!"

"What's there to be afraid of!" Kitagawa Yao waved her hand dismissively. She looked at everyone, her bright eyes filled with unwavering trust: "Have you all forgotten who our minister is? He's that 'cultural monster' who can turn the rotten into the miraculous! I believe that the person he chooses will absolutely not be wrong!"

Amidst the murmurs of discussion, the screen on the giant LCD TV on the wall suddenly changed.

Next up was TV Tokyo's futuristic logo.

"It's about to begin! It's about to begin!"

Everyone instinctively held their breath.

The office fell into an expectant silence.

Only from the television, the melodious yet somewhat melancholic guitar sound, like the gentlest evening breeze, drifted out slowly.

The opening theme song of "Midnight Diner" started playing.

The familiar melody and the heartwarming scenes instantly transported everyone into a late-night world filled with stories and everyday life.

The guitar sound was very soft, like the silent sigh of a lonely traveler at the entrance of a midnight alley, or like a clear spring flowing over the cold concrete of the city. There was no fancy arrangement, no exciting drumbeats, only the most simple vibration of the six strings, one note per string, so clean that it seemed to wash away the fatigue of a whole day.

Immediately afterwards, a slightly hoarse male voice, full of the warmth of everyday life, began to sing, like wisps of mist rising from a clear spring.

That voice, unadorned by any artifice, was like aged whiskey—mellow, warm, and with a touch of just the right amount of melancholy. Every word seemed to tell a story long hidden in the heart.

On the television screen, the street scene of Shinjuku flowed slowly under the lens, finally settling on that deep alley, that dim yellow lantern, and that faded blue curtain.

The camera cuts into the shop, where a man in a dark blue kimono with a scar on his face is preparing ingredients in the small kitchen, his back to the camera.

Until the very last note of the opening theme, like a falling cherry blossom, it gently dissipated into the air.

The entire office remained silent.

While everyone was still immersed in that warmth and emotion that found true meaning in the ordinary, they were unable to extricate themselves for a long time.

Immediately afterwards, the boss's deep, slightly hoarse voice, like a voice-over, slowly rang out.

"When the day ends and people are rushing home, my day is just beginning."

"The menu only has these items, but you can order anything you want, as long as I can cook it. That's my business policy."

"The business hours are from midnight to around 7 a.m., and people call it the 'Midnight Diner'."

The voice acted as an anchor, instantly settling all the drifting emotions firmly in the small cafeteria.

"hiss--"

In the office, a collective gasp finally broke out, followed by a deafening murmur that seemed to have been ignited!

"Oh my god! This is it! This is it!" The female planner with black-rimmed glasses excitedly grabbed her colleague's arm, her bright eyes practically sparkling with excitement. "The boss's back view! The atmosphere of this kitchen! And that opening theme song just now! It's...it's exactly the scene I imagined in my mind when I read the comic!"

“It’s more than just identical!” The introverted male screenwriter next to her chimed in. He pushed up his glasses, and his usually calm eyes now gleamed with a kind of “fervor.” “I even think the live-action version is better than I imagined! That boss’s voice is so magnetic! It made me… a grown man like me, my heart melted!”

"That's right! That's right!" Another young employee in charge of props review said excitedly, "Did you see the kitchen set just now? It was so realistic! Those pots and pans, those seasoning jars, it was just like a real old shop that had been open for decades! I could even smell the aroma of soy sauce and cooking fumes!"

"I think the best part was the opening theme song!" A female employee who had come all the way from the editing department to watch the fun couldn't help but exclaim, "That song was so beautiful! It was warm, healing, and even carried a hint of loneliness! It was practically... a 'soothing song for the soul' tailor-made for us urbanites struggling in Tokyo!"

"Yeah! Yeah! It makes me homesick..."

At the other end of the office, on the central sofa symbolizing core power, the expressions on the faces of the main actors, including Asumi, Toshihide Takada, and Ken Minamino, were equally fascinating.

"This opening theme... it's not the first time I've heard it." Asumi's emotions were complicated. He looked at Hiroshi Nohara beside him, his eyes like he was looking at a real monster. "But listening to it now, it doesn't use any complicated instruments, not even drums. Just the simplest acoustic guitar, the most unadorned sound, yet it can instantly grab everyone's ears and pull them into the story. This ability to simplify complexity is truly... terrifying."

“Hmm.” Takada Toshihide nodded, his face showing genuine admiration: “It’s not just a song, but also the creation of an ‘atmosphere.’ In the most direct and effective way, it sets a tone of ‘warmth’ and ‘loneliness’ for the entire drama. It allows the audience to subconsciously accept the story’s premise before even watching the main episodes. This precise grasp of the audience’s psychology is truly… breathtaking.”

"It's more than just precise!" Ken Minamino, a veteran actor who has spent half his life in the Japanese entertainment industry, couldn't help but exclaim. He looked at Hiroshi Nohara with eyes full of deep respect: "Let me tell you, when I was filming on set, the director was right next to me, personally playing and singing this song on the guitar. When I heard it, I felt like I was sinking down. This song has magic."

Amidst the chorus of praises, a young employee who appeared to be from the music department, wearing headphones, suddenly took them off and spoke to the crowd with a proud and honored expression.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this opening theme song was personally composed by our Minister Nohara, and he invited an independent musician whom he greatly admires to play and sing it."

He paused, his tone becoming even more solemn, the pride of a professional making him stand out: "Moreover, the minister personally ordered that this song, 'Omoide' (Memories), will become the permanent, fixed opening theme for our 'Midnight Diner' series! No matter how many seasons we film, it will never be changed!"

"what?!"

"The minister personally composed the music?!"

"My God! He... he even understands music?!"

Another earth-shattering gasp erupted in the office!
However, this sense of amazement was quickly replaced by a composure that seemed almost "taken for granted."

"Sigh... I knew it." The female planning director sighed deeply, her voice carrying a hint of helplessness, a bitter smile, and also a deep-seated admiration: "Is there anything our minister can't do?"

“Yes.” The male screenwriter echoed, pushing up his glasses, his eyes flashing with a kind of habitual indifference: “I even think that if tomorrow’s newspaper says that the minister is actually an alien who can pilot a Gundam, I wouldn’t be surprised at all.”

"Hahahahahaha!"

A burst of unspoken laughter erupted in the office!
Everyone knows that in the face of Hiroshi Nohara, this "cultural monster," any "impossible" becomes "taken for granted."

"Shh—! Don't talk! The plot has started!" Just then, Kitagawa Yao suddenly pointed at the TV and made a "shush" gesture.

The office fell into an expectant silence once again.

All eyes turned once again to that world of light and shadow, brimming with stories and the warmth of everyday life.

They watched as the man with a scar on his face but incredibly gentle eyes calmly and slowly prepared heartwarming and comforting dishes for those equally lonely city dwellers in that small kitchen.

They watched as all sorts of guests, in the dead of night, shed all pretenses and shared their joys and sorrows.

They seemed to have become a part of this little shop as well.

Their hearts, as the story unfolds, are sometimes warmed, sometimes saddened, and sometimes... completely healed.

……

Tokyo TV Station

This newly completed modern building, constructed entirely of cold glass curtain walls and steel structures, resembles a giant steel beast with its eyes wide open in the night. In its multi-functional screening room on the top floor, a grand and boisterous opening ceremony and premiere were being held.

The crystal chandelier illuminated the entire hall as bright as day, and the light refracted into a dazzling and extravagant halo on the walls of each tulip glass filled with top-quality champagne. The air was filled with the rich aroma of fine cologne and precious perfumes, dividing this small space into two completely different worlds from the real night outside the window that belonged to ordinary people.

Tokyo Mayor Tanaka Mikami was seated in the central seat, dressed in a well-tailored dark kimono. His face, etched with the lines of time, wore a perfectly measured, gentle smile befitting a politician.

But those sharp, hawk-like eyes, like the most sophisticated searchlights, slowly swept over everyone present, taking in their expressions.

Beside him stood Sato Tokugawa, the chairman of the Kirin Group, whose massive frame resembled a small mountain. His face, glistening with alcohol, was now radiating the smugness and arrogance of a victor.

"Hahahaha! Mayor! Just you wait and see!" Sato Tokugawa raised his glass, his voice so loud it almost lifted the roof off the entire screening room: "Tonight, our film 'South Island Afu and His Beloved Dog' will definitely be a smash hit! I guarantee the ratings will absolutely crush that TV Tokyo thing... 'Midnight Diner'!"

"President Sato, watch your words, watch your words." Tanaka Mikami waved his hand with a smile, his composure befitting a person in a position of authority making him appear exceptionally dignified at this moment: "Our Tokyo City Television is a platform to serve the citizens, not to engage in those cutthroat commercial competitions. As long as we do our best to produce good works and convey the 'warmth' and 'care' we want to express to every citizen, that's enough."

His words were so eloquent and impeccable that they immediately drew a chorus of agreement from those around him.

"The mayor is right!"

"That's right! We're making art! We're making films about sentiment! Not those fast-food cultures that only know how to chase ratings!"

"Exactly! Our show is sure to become a phenomenon this year!"

The invited media reporters and film critics all raised their glasses, wearing professional smiles and offering perfectly timed compliments.

As the absolute protagonists of the evening, the three veteran directors who were poached by Sato Tokugawa with high salaries, along with a group of idol stars led by Kamiki Shunsuke, were now as if they had been injected with chicken blood, standing up straight with excitement and arrogance on their faces as if they were about to usher in a new era.

"Mayor, President Sato, and friends from the media." The director named Tanaka was the first to stand up: "As the chief director of this drama, 'South Island Afu and His Beloved Dog,' I can tell you with certainty that this drama is a work of sincerity that our team has spent half a year meticulously crafting, a work that is worthy of being recorded in the history of Japanese television dramas!"

He paused, his tone becoming even more impassioned, his professional confidence making him stand out: "In the early stages of creation, we conducted the most precise big data analysis on the entire Tokyo viewing market! We discovered that today's young viewers, especially women aged eighteen to thirty-five, have an almost instinctive preference for the three keywords 'pets,' 'protection,' and 'growth'! Therefore, the core of our drama revolves closely around these three keywords!"

“That’s right!” Director Suzuki echoed, “We’re not just telling a story; we’re creating a dreamscape tailored to our target audience, a dreamscape that will resonate deeply with them! We’re using the most beautiful cinematography to showcase the natural beauty of the southern islands, the most enchanting soundtrack to highlight the protagonist’s loneliness and struggle, and the most adorable Akita dogs to evoke the softest maternal instincts within them! Every single detail has been meticulously calculated! I dare say that any female viewer will be absolutely unable to resist the charm of our drama!”

"Both directors are absolutely right!" The last director, Watanabe, couldn't help but clap his hands in praise: "Art originates from life, but ultimately, it must serve the market! Our drama is the perfect combination of 'art' and 'commerce'! We have the most professional team, the finest production, the most accurate market positioning, and..."

His gaze slowly fell upon the young man who had maintained an elegant smile throughout.

"...And, the most dazzling star in our Japanese entertainment industry—Shunsuke Kamiki!"

"Wow——!"

All eyes instantly focused on the young man, who looked like a perfect work of art sculpted by the gods.

Kamiki Shunsuke slowly stood up from his seat. He first bowed gracefully to everyone, and then slowly swept his captivating eyes, which could make any woman fall for him, over everyone present.

"Everyone, you flatter me too much." His voice was like the finest silk, smooth and magnetic, each word seemingly possessing a soothing magic: "I was just doing what I should do as an actor."

He paused, a smile curving his lips into a captivating smile, the confidence and charm of a top idol making him radiant at that moment.

"However, I can assure you all of one thing." He looked at the crowd, his eyes filled with certainty: "My fans are the most adorable and loyal people in the world. As long as I star in a TV series, they will definitely support and protect it with all their passion. So, please look forward to tonight's ratings."

These words were spoken casually, yet they were full of power.

The subtext was clear—with me, Shunsuke Kamiki, here, this drama absolutely cannot fail!
"well said!"

"As expected of Shunsuke-kun!"

"We believe you!"

The other young artists behind him, who were also popular idols, echoed his sentiments, creating a frenzy that brought the atmosphere in the entire screening room to its peak.

In this atmosphere filled with confidence and fervor, the lights in the screening room slowly dimmed.

The giant screen lit up, and the inaugural production of "Tokyo City Television" officially began.

The opening theme is a catchy pop song full of youthful energy, sung by a popular girl idol group. Their sweet voices and dynamic melody instantly transport everyone to a world full of sunshine and dreams.

The scene depicts a vast blue sea, pristine white sand beaches, and lush coconut groves.

Shunsuke Kamiki plays the male protagonist, Afu, a fair-skinned island boy with clear eyes, who is running barefoot on the beach. His handsome face, which seems unreal, is filled with a bright smile full of boundless hope for the future.

Then, the scene shifts to bustling yet cold Tokyo.

Ah Feng, harboring a dream of becoming a top chef, came to this unfamiliar city to make his way in the world. However, reality was cruel; he faced setbacks everywhere, enduring countless scornful looks and cold treatment. In the end, he was ruthlessly kicked out of a restaurant by its owner.

At the end of the first episode, the down-on-his-luck A-Feng sits alone in the square in front of Shibuya Station. He looks at the endless stream of people around him, and for the first time, his usually clear eyes are filled with confusion and despair.

Just then, a stray Akita dog, dirty all over but with equally clear eyes, cautiously approached him and gently licked his palm with its warm tongue.

Ah Feng was slightly taken aback. He looked at the little guy in front of him, who shared the same plight as him. His heart, which had long been worn down by reality, was completely melted at this moment by an unprecedented emotion called "warmth".

He reached out and hugged the puppy tightly, his voice choked with emotion, yet filled with an indomitable fighting spirit.

"From now on, let's work hard together in Tokyo!"

The image freezes on this heartwarming moment of a person and a dog snuggling together.

The end credits roll and the lights come on.

"Clap! Clap! Clap!"

Thunderous applause instantly swept through the entire screening room!

"That's fantastic! Absolutely fantastic!"

"This plot is so touching! I...I almost cried!"

"Yes! Especially the last scene! It was simply... a stroke of genius!"

"I even feel that this drama is somewhat similar to 'Hachiko Monogatari'! They both tell the story of the bond between people and dogs, and they are both so heartwarming and so healing!"

The reporters were so excited they were almost incoherent, vying to point their microphones at the key members of the production team.

Tanaka Mikami nodded in satisfaction. He turned to look at Sato Tokugawa and Kamiki Shunsuke beside him, his eyes filled with undisguised admiration.

"Sato-kun, Shunsuke-kun, you did a great job." He said with a smile, "This drama is very well made and shows a lot of sincerity. I believe the citizens will like it."

However, amidst this atmosphere of praise and celebration, several seasoned film critics sitting in the corner all frowned in unison.

They exchanged a glance, both seeing the same helplessness and... a hint of disdain in each other's eyes.

They didn't speak, but silently stuffed the prepared press release, full of praise, into their briefcases.

Soon, the premiere ceremony ended, and amidst a cacophony of self-praise, Sato Tokugawa and Kamiki Shunsuke accompanied Tanaka Mikami to leave the screening room and head to a more private office.

Takahashi, along with several other TV station staff members, greeted the reporters and film critics with beaming smiles and escorted them to the elevator.

"Everyone, everyone, thank you all for your hard work today." As he spoke, Takahashi skillfully took a thick stack of envelopes from his secretary and stuffed them into the hands of the reporters and film critics.

"This is just a small token of our appreciation from our TV station," he said with a smile, his voice carrying a subtle implication: "On your way back, please say a few kind words to us."

"Easy to say, easy to say!"

"Mr. Takahashi, you're too kind!"

"Don't worry! We know how to write it!"

Reporters and film critics alike exchanged knowing smiles.

They weighed the rather heavy envelope in their hands, then turned and left, satisfied.

However, when several of the film critics who were on good terms met again in the underground parking lot, the professional smiles on their faces vanished instantly.

"Ugh……"

A veteran film critic named Kimura sighed deeply, opened the door of his Toyota, and waved helplessly to his two equally worried colleagues beside him.

"Come up and tell me."

The three got into the car, and Kimura took out three bottles of oolong tea from the storage compartment and handed them to the other two.

"Gudong, Gudong."

After a series of satisfying swallowing sounds, the carriage fell into a suffocating silence.

"Kimura-senpai," finally, the youngest-looking film critic broke the silence, his usually sharp face now filled with helplessness and self-deprecation: "Tell me, what exactly do we do?"

"What else can you call it?" Another bespectacled, seemingly refined middle-aged film critic gave a wry smile, shaking the bottle of oolong tea in his hand. His voice was full of world-weariness: "If you take someone's money, you have to solve their problems."

"But...but this is just too fake!" the young film critic exclaimed excitedly, his eyes blazing with anger. "What kind of garbage is that 'South Island Afeng and His Beloved Dog'?! The plot is clichéd, the logic is flawed, and apart from the Akita Inu being somewhat cute, it's utterly worthless!"

“Especially that Shunsuke Kamiki!” He got angrier and angrier, and couldn’t help but wave his fist: “He calls that acting? He’s clearly shooting a personal music video! From beginning to end, all he does is show off and pose! I even suspect that he used eye drops for his crying scenes!”

"Alright, Ono." Kimura patted him on the shoulder, his voice carrying a hint of the helplessness of someone with experience: "Is this your first day in this line of work? Haven't you seen enough of this kind of thing?"

He paused, then turned his gaze to the cold concrete jungle outside the window, shrouded in the dim lights of the parking lot, a hint of indescribable weariness flashing in his eyes.

“This drama, from the very beginning, was not made for us, the people who really know our stuff.” He spoke slowly, his voice not loud, but like the sharpest knife, precisely dissecting the core of the problem: “It was made for those fans who only need to see a pretty face and a touching story to willingly take out their wallets and contribute to the ratings…”

"It is a beautifully packaged, glamorous product. And we are nothing more than cheerleaders for this product."

"But, senpai!" Ono said, still somewhat unwilling, "Then... what about TV Tokyo's 'Midnight Diner'? I heard that show is a truly conscientious production!"

"Midnight Diner?" Upon hearing this, Kimura-senpai's face revealed a complex expression filled with anticipation and... a hint of worry.

"Yes." He let out a long breath, a breath that carried a hint of emotion, a hint of respect, and a hint of heartfelt admiration for the young man named Hiroshi Nohara.

"That young man, he is the one who truly treats television dramas as art."

"It's just a pity..." He paused, then squeezed the empty bottle of oolong tea into a ball.

"In the end, this world is still ruled by capital. We can only watch this garbage that has been promoted by capital, and we can't see the works produced by that monstrous genius."

That voice was filled with endless sorrow.

The others nodded, a hint of resentment flashing in their eyes.

(End of this chapter)