‘(LOVE SONG)’: Japan-Thailand Co-Production Starring Win Morisaki and Koji Mukai

Win Morisaki’s Comment on Playing Souta

When I was offered the role of Souta, I was initially anxious because he is the complete opposite of my own character. However, I approached the project with the determination to give it my all, believing that “this role would change my life.” As I worked through the script, my anxiety only grew. But during a costume fitting, when I read lines with Koji Mukai, who plays Kai, hearing his voice completely wiped away my worries.

The director told me that Souta’s personality is “serious and meticulous,” but when he met Kai, I could see a bit of clumsiness and imperfection in him, which made him more charming. I became convinced that Kai, with his freedom and flexibility, is the “final key” that opens up Souta’s life.

It was impressive to see the Thai team, led by the director, enjoying the filming process. Although there were cultural and language barriers with the Japanese team, we overcame them without compromising, and there were many moments where we became one. I believe those moments are reflected in the great scenes of the movie. I am really looking forward to the finished product!

Koji Mukai (Snow Man) Reflects on Playing Kai

When I was offered the chance to work in Thailand, it was a huge opportunity for me, and I was overjoyed. While there were some nerves and pressure, the excitement I felt far outweighed those feelings.

Kai, the character I portrayed, is an artistic, somewhat awkward soul who struggles to express his emotions, yet is very clear about his goals. He has a bit of a selfish side, often thinking “I want to say something, but I won’t.”

I’m deeply grateful for Souta’s sincere and honest nature, which helped me portray Kai so naturally. The director, who has a deep love for Japan, was always smiling while watching the monitor, and his warmth truly showed throughout the process.

Though I initially struggled with the difference in filming styles, I now feel proud of the amazing shots we managed to capture. I also challenged myself with Thai lines and showed a side of myself as Kai that fans don’t typically see in my Snow Man persona.
I truly hope this film becomes a standout in my career, one I can proudly share in my profile, and that it connects with audiences far and wide.

Director Weerachit Tongjirala Comments on (LOVE SONG)

(LOVE SONG) is my first film that I spent a long time crafting, and it has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. While learning about the cultural differences between Japan and Thailand, I poured my heart into creating this piece. It is a romantic story filled with the beauty of pure love and love songs, one that I hope brings happiness to anyone who watches it. I want everyone to feel the emotions of loving someone and being loved in return. I believe those who experience this film for the first time will truly feel something special.

Souta, played by Win Morisaki, is a character who delivers a straightforward performance that makes him lovable to everyone. On the other hand, Koji Mukai’s portrayal of Kai reveals a character full of passion for music and sensitivity. Koji’s sincere performance brings out the deep love within Kai’s character. The chemistry between these two actors feels so genuine, and I truly believe it has made the story shine even brighter.

As a director, it was a meaningful journey to explore the world of the film and the true meaning of the songs with them. I hope that through this film, you, too, will experience the same emotions that I felt while making it.

Producer Ryoko Nozoe (KADOKAWA) Comments

The filming in September this year was an incredibly intense month. Although I can’t say we were fully prepared, traveling to Thailand was an eye-opening experience. Shooting in a country with an unfamiliar environment was full of challenges, but I am truly grateful for the smiles and hospitality of Champ (the director) and the Thai team, as well as the mutual support from the Japanese team, which helped maintain a peaceful atmosphere on set. The ability to work together with smiles in both Thailand and Japan was a vital barometer for all of us.

Win Morisaki’s big laughter and Koji Mukai’s bright energy, always striving to entertain everyone, created a positive and uplifting atmosphere on set. I believe that both of them, with Win hailing from Myanmar and Koji having Thai roots, led the way through their excellent communication skills, even with language barriers.

On set, Win was relatively quiet, reflecting on his role, while Koji, perhaps to hide his bashfulness, kept making the staff laugh. Despite the contrast with their characters, when filming began, their performances brought out delicate and precise interactions. During our preparations, Win and Koji would rehearse together, discussing natural phrasing and even translating and suggesting things to the director. We had many moments like that.

In particular, pay attention to how their expressions and dialogue subtly differ in their scenes together compared to when they are with other cast members.

Also, look forward to the common language shared by both Thailand and Japan—music! Even without words, the incomplete love song connecting Souta and Kai will surely resonate with the feelings of longing in the hearts of the audience. I believe that the poignant melodies will link to everyone’s own emotions of missing someone.