Tokyo, Japan — Neon is preparing to kick off production on “Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo,” with acclaimed director Takashi Miike at the helm. Filming is slated to commence in May and will feature a star-studded lineup, including Shun Oguri, known for “Godzilla vs. Kong,” alongside Lily James of “Pam & Tommy” fame and WWE’s Liv Morgan.
This project represents a notable collaboration between American and Japanese filmmaking, brought together through the efforts of producers Jeremy Thomas, Sam Pressman, Naoaki Kitajima, and Misako Saka. The executive producer team encompasses Tom Quinn and Yuzo Kuwahara, among others. Key negotiations for the film were handled by Neon’s Sarah Colvin, who oversees acquisitions, along with representatives from Pressman Film and Recorded Picture Company.
Neon is set to handle the film’s theatrical release in North America and is also positioning itself to oversee international sales at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival.
The screenplay, crafted by Daisuke Tengan, is based on an intellectual property first created by Edward R. Pressman. The narrative centers on a corrupt gambler in the Metropolitan Police Force, portrayed by Oguri, who finds his world turned upside down upon the arrival of an enigmatic FBI agent, played by James. As they delve into the mysterious disappearance of a politician’s daughter, depicted by Morgan, they become ensnared in a web of intrigue that includes a menacing killer linked to the yakuza.
Miike expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We have assembled an incredibly talented team in Tokyo. I aim to deliver something fresh and memorable that pushes boundaries.” He emphasized his commitment to creating an exhilarating viewing experience.
Producer Jeremy Thomas shared his excitement about revisiting this iconic story under Miike’s direction. Having produced numerous films in Japan, including the recent success “Grand Maison Paris,” which amassed over $28 million, Thomas believes this project is ripe for exploration. “This irreverent hybrid is timely and has a rich cultural context,” he noted.
Following a successful awards season highlighted by Sean Baker’s “Anora,” which secured five Oscars, Neon continues to make waves in the industry. The company will also showcase additional titles at Cannes, including works from renowned directors Joachim Trier and Julia Ducournau.
Pressman Film’s CEO Sam Pressman praised Miike’s unique vision for the “Bad Lieutenant” character, describing his adaptation as “wild and distinctive.” He reiterated that the narrative’s themes of corruption resonate universally and expressed pride in collaborating with Miike, Neon, and Thomas to realize this vision in Tokyo.
Takashi Miike, celebrated for his diverse and expansive body of work, has gained significant recognition both domestically and internationally. His films, which include cult classics such as “Audition” and “Ichi the Killer,” continue to garner a loyal following. Miike has also been acknowledged at the Cannes Film Festival, adding to his prestigious career.
Shun Oguri is one of Japan’s top actors and has gained prominence through notable roles in both television and film. He has previously collaborated with Miike on various projects, deepening their professional rapport. Oguri is currently involved in streaming series for Netflix, further expanding his portfolio.
Lily James, who rose to fame on “Downton Abbey,” has made a mark with her powerful performances across film and television, including a BAFTA-nominated role in “Pam & Tommy.” Her versatility continues to captivate audiences globally.
Liv Morgan, known for her dynamic presence in the WWE, recently appeared in high-profile events like WrestleMania. As she transitions to acting, her involvement in “Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo” marks an exciting new phase in her career, showcasing her talent beyond the wrestling ring.