Prime Video today announced that the Japanese mystery series Human Specimens will premiere exclusively on December 18 worldwide with all five episodes. The series stars Japanese screen icon Hidetoshi Nishijima (Drive My Car) and rising Kabuki star Ichikawa Somegorô.
Human Specimens is directed by Ryūichi Hiroki (It’s Only Talk) and is adapted from the novel by Kanae Minato, one of Japan’s most celebrated mystery writers, known for her international bestseller, Confessions which was adapted into the acclaimed film that represented Japan at the 83rd Academy Awards.
Per Prime Video, “The dark tale follows Professor Shirô Sakaki, a butterfly researcher, who confesses to turning six young boys, including his own son Itaru, into “human specimens.””
“This series explores humanity’s obsession with beauty through the lens of a complex father-son relationship,” Ryûichi Hiroki tells Prime Video. “When I first read the original work, while overwhelmed by its profound themes, the sharp insights into human nature and the beautiful world Ms. Kanae Minato created through butterfly motifs proved deeply captivating. The series aims to carefully yet boldly portray a world where love and madness intersect, expressed through butterflies and art. The anticipation of how Prime customers will respond to this unique vision fills me with great excitement.”
“We are excited to present to our Prime customers worldwide a new series that will leave a lasting impression,” says Thomas Dubois, Head of French and Japanese Originals, Prime Video. “This dark and compelling drama series earnestly confronts the eternal questions that Kanae Minato explores with her sharp pen – the purpose of life and the nature of love. Bringing together the extraordinary talents of Hidetoshi Nishijima and Somegoro Ichikawa, masterfully directed by Ryuichi Hiroki, we have created a series that fully realizes the power of the original work while delivering an intense and unforgettable experience that transcends cultural boundaries.”
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