Gekidan Engimono

Fuji-TV reserves the late-night time period to be used for experimental projects, giving up-and-coming young screenwriters, producers and directors a place to develop their skills and televise their works. Each renzoku drama last four weeks. The cast is made up of young artistes who are either already established in the geinoukai, or are relatively unknowns looking for the chance to appear on television. The subject matters covered also cater to the younger viewing audience.

Directed by —, Gekidan Engimono leans on a strong ensemble — Sho Sakurai, Keiichiro Koyama, Aya Hirayama — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2004.