The event featured appearances by the star-studded cast, the theme song performer Takanori Nishikawa, and director Mitsuo Fukuda. In addition, a letter from Kenichi Suzumura (voice of Shinn Asuka), who couldn’t attend the event, was read aloud.
Now, let’s dive into the official report.
Official Report
Hoshi: “To everyone who came to the theater, and those watching via live viewing, I’m Soichiro Hoshi, the voice of Kira Yamato. Happy to be here!”
Tanaka: “I’m Rie Tanaka, the voice of Lacus Clyne. Thank you all for coming today. Please enjoy yourselves.”
Ishida: “I’m Akira Ishida, and I’ll likely appear as Athrun Zala later on. I’m really sorry for the long wait, but it’s finally here. Let’s get excited!”
Uesaka: “I’m Sumire Uesaka, and I play Ingrid Tradoll, a new character in Gundam SEED FREEDOM. It’s a short time we have today, but let’s make the most of it and have fun.”
Morisaki: “I’m Win Morisaki, and I play Griffin Arbalest. Although our time is brief, I hope you all enjoy it until the very end. This event is just before the screening, so I hope it sets the tone for the excitement ahead.”
Nishikawa: “I’m Takanori Nishikawa. I’m so happy to be here with everyone today. Even though it’s only been a few days since the release, we’ve been monitoring the feedback on FREEDOM online. The high level of respect from the fans, making sure not to spoil things on social media, is truly wonderful. I feel deeply grateful to be supported by such amazing fans. Let’s enjoy today together.”
Director Fukuda: “The film has gotten off to a great start. Honestly, I haven’t fully felt it yet, but I’ve heard the reports. This is all thanks to the fans who’ve supported us for the past 18 years. I’m truly sorry to have kept you waiting for so long. Over those 18 years, I’ve thought a lot about what would happen to the characters I’ve been so closely connected with. The joy of seeing the smiles on the faces of the audience at the theater is what makes movies special to me, and that’s been my priority throughout the process. To be honest, it’s not about the numbers; it’s about seeing everyone’s smiles. Please enjoy the film.”
At this point, a letter from Kenichi Suzumura, the voice of Shinn Asuka, who couldn’t attend the event, was read aloud:
To everyone at the theater,
Hello, this is Kenichi Suzumura, the voice of Shinn Asuka.
Thank you so much for coming to the theater today.
Among so many wonderful cast members, I’m truly grateful for this chance to share my thoughts with you. Please allow me to speak briefly (laughs).
I was already 29 years old when I first encountered the role of Shinn Asuka, which is quite late to be in the middle of one’s youthful prime. Looking back on those days, I remember being torn between youthful confusion and a hunger to grow. Like Shinn, I too was struggling but somehow kept moving forward during that time.
Shinn Asuka is a young boy who lost much due to war and was left with deep emotional scars. He’s a boy full of intense emotions who lashes out at those around him. Some may have found him selfish or frustrating. But in hindsight, I now see these were perfectly normal emotional reactions for a boy his age. If I had been able to better convey his true nature, his honesty, and brightness, perhaps I could have made Shinn a more captivating character. Of course, I did everything I could at the time, and there was a unique atmosphere that could only be captured during that period. Still, after the recording was done, I often thought to myself, “Maybe I could portray him differently now, from a new perspective.”
Now, after all this time, I get the chance to face Shinn Asuka once again. In this new movie, thanks to the guidance of the director and team, I’ve come to know a softer, more honest side of Shinn Asuka, and I’ve fallen for him all over again (laughs). I hope you will also come to appreciate this side of him through your own eyes.
This new film brings back the feeling of the SEED days. For those who experienced that time, it might even feel like those days are connected directly to the present—bringing a sense of nostalgic comfort. I believe the film will meet your expectations, so please look forward to the moment it all comes together.
Thank you again for your precious time, and please enjoy the stage greeting and the film to your heart’s content. I hope it will become an unforgettable moment for you. With all my heart!
When asked about what fans should look forward to, Tanaka emphasized themes of love and necessity: “I hope you feel the various forms of love, the bonds, and what it means to protect something.” Ishida highlighted the film’s balance between love and the harsh realities of war: “Although love is a central theme, the film also portrays war and the conflicting interests of different sides. The most painful decisions are shown—not just the happy, loving moments. The dilemmas faced by former allies like Yzak and Dearka will be key moments to watch, so don’t miss them. Athrun also has a big role this time!”
The movie features an array of musical talent, including the main theme "FREEDOM" by Takanori Nishikawa with t.komuro, the ending theme "Romantics at Departure" by See-Saw, an insert song "Nostalgia" by Mika Nakashima composed by Tetsuya Komuro, and the official supporter song "Reborn" by Nami Tamaki. Nishikawa expressed his admiration for the film's soundtrack: “While the main theme and ending theme are great, the background music is absolutely wonderful. It feels like you’re bathing in a symphonic suite along with the visuals, truly an experience unique to the theater.” Morisaki agreed, emphasizing the sensory impact of the music and sound effects: “The songs and sound effects really immerse you, pulling you in unconsciously. That’s the magic of seeing a movie in a theater, especially a Gundam movie with its signature sound effects and mecha noises.”
Gundam SEED has fans worldwide, and with the film set to release in over 56 countries and regions, Director Fukuda jokingly encouraged the cast to study English: “Everyone, we’ll have to brush up on our English skills,” he said with a laugh, before expressing his gratitude: “I’m truly thankful that this film is being shared with the world.”
Sumire Uesaka, who plays Ingrid Tradoll, a secretary in the Kingdom of Foundation, recalled watching Gundam SEED in real-time and feeling that it was an intense story. “Back then, many of my friends had their first Gundam experience with SEED. I remember thinking how tough the story was. Different scenes stick with different viewers, and it’s the kind of show that makes you want to talk about it. To take on a new character 18 years later is nerve-wracking but also exciting. Be ready—it’s a show that grabs your soul!” she warned with a smile.
Additionally, a social media campaign was held at both the stage greeting venue and live viewing venues nationwide, where fans simultaneously posted the hashtag "#FREEDOM⾏きます" (Freedom taking off) on X, aiming to get it trending. After the photo session, Hoshi's shout of "FREEDOM!" echoed through the audience, who responded with "Taking off!" as a cannon blast went off!
Amid the wave of cheers, Hoshi spoke on behalf of everyone: "Now you’ll finally get to watch the long-awaited film. I can feel the love that the staff has for Gundam SEED, and I feel the same love from all of you. This film is packed with 18 years' worth of love, so please enjoy it as many times as you'd like and continue to immerse yourselves in the world of Gundam. Thank you so much!" His heartfelt words were met with thunderous applause, bringing the commemorative stage greeting to a close.
Date: Sunday, January 28, 2024
Venue: Shinjuku Piccadilly (3-15-15 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku)
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