Shizumanu Taiyo (2016 TV Series)
Shizumanu Taiyo (The Never-Setting Sun) is a 2016 Japanese television drama series broadcast by the network WOWOW. The series is based on the novel of the same name written by Toyoko Yamasaki, which was originally serialized in the weekly magazine Shukan Shincho between 1995 and 1999. The drama consists of 20 episodes, marking it as the longest series produced by WOWOW at the time of its release.
Plot
The narrative centers on Hajime Onchi, a labor union leader at the national airline NAL. Onchi and his associate, Shiro Gyoten, initially work together to advocate for improved working conditions, citing concerns over safety standards. As the conflict with management intensifies, Onchi is demoted to a remote overseas post, while Gyoten chooses to align himself with the company's management to advance his career.
The story takes a dramatic turn following a major airplane crash involving NAL. As the airline faces a crisis, the government appoints Masayuki Kunimi as the new president to restore order. Kunimi enlists Onchi to investigate systemic corruption within the organization, leading to a direct confrontation between Onchi and his former ally, Gyoten.
Production
Filming for the series commenced in late December 2015 and concluded in mid-May 2016. The production included location shooting in Africa and the Middle East to capture the international scope of the story. The series was directed by Toshiyuki Mizutani and Kosuke Suzuki, with a screenplay by Youichi Maekawa.
Cast
The series features an extensive ensemble cast, including:
- Takaya Kamikawa as Hajime Onchi
- Atsuro Watabe as Shiro Gyoten
- Yui Natsukawa as Ritsuko Onchi
- Rei Dan as Miki Mitsui
- Itsuji Itao as Tadatsugu Hachiuma
- Kotaro Koizumi as Masao Sawaizumi
- Mayumi Wakamura as Reiko Gyoten
- Ikko Furuya as Mamoru Hiyama
- Jun Kunimura as Shinsuke Domoto
- Reiko Tajima as Masae Onchi
