On April 15, actors Issey Takahashi (44) and Marie Iitoyo (27), who announced their marriage in May last year, made their first public appearance as a married couple at the completion press event for the upcoming film Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan: At a Confessional, set to be released on May 23. The pair, whose marriage was widely referred to as the “JoJo Wedding,” shared joyful smiles as they celebrated the completion of the movie.

Spin-off from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Continues with New Film Shot Entirely in Venice

Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan is a popular spin-off from Hirohiko Araki’s manga series JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. The first TV drama season aired in December 2020, followed by a second in December 2021 and a third in December 2022. The first theatrical film, Kishibe Rohan Goes to the Louvre, was released in May 2023. Takahashi has consistently played the lead role of Rohan Kishibe, while Iitoyo portrays Kyoka Izumi, Rohan’s manga editor. In the latest installment, At a Confessional, the two return to reprise their roles.

The film was shot entirely on location in Venice last fall. Reflecting on the production, Takahashi said, “Five years have passed since we began the live-action adaptation, and finally, At a Confessional is complete. I’ve had the chance to watch it, and it truly is an incredible piece of work. Spending a full month shooting in Venice, surrounded by labyrinthine scenery that perfectly embodies the world of JoJo and Kishibe Rohan, it was a joy to see how the cast and crew brought this unique vision together into a compelling cinematic experience.”

Iitoyo nodded in agreement beside him, and when it was her turn to speak, she added, “This is the long-awaited live-action adaptation of At a Confessional, which is also the origin of the Kishibe Rohan series. It’s become a truly remarkable film, and I hope many people will come see it.”

When they first announced their marriage, the couple shared the following statement on their official website: “It all began with our participation in a single project. As we worked together, we felt a deepening connection. After a year of dating, and with warm support from everyone involved in the project, we are happy to share this day with you.”

Film Adapts the Series’ Foundational Episode in a Venetian Setting

The new film adapts the original Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan story At a Confessional, where Rohan, a manga artist, visits a church in Venice and hears a terrifying confession from a masked man. The entire story unfolds in the beautiful, mysterious atmosphere of Venice, capturing the eerie and philosophical tone that defines the series.

Teaser Trailer

A Sinister Confession and a Deadly Curse

The full trailer opens with Rohan navigating the shadowy streets of Venice, burdened by an ominous presence. While visiting a church, he enters a confessional booth, only to hear a masked man’s chilling confession. The man (Shunsuke Daito) recounts a past tragedy—accidentally killing a homeless man (Shigeyuki Totsugi)—and the curse that followed.

"At the peak of your happiness, I will make you suffer a despair greater than mine."

As a result of the vagrant’s lingering grudge, the man finds himself trapped in a paradox—every moment of happiness he experiences is a prelude to a looming disaster. Meanwhile, Rohan crosses paths with Maria (Tina Tamashiro), a mysterious and beautiful mask artisan, and Tamiya (Arata Iura), a suspicious figure who seems to shadow Rohan’s every move. Through these fateful encounters, Rohan realizes that even he is not immune to the so-called "curse of happiness." But who is the masked confessor? And what terrifying truth will Rohan uncover when his insatiable curiosity compels him to open the forbidden door?

A Suspenseful Tale of Curses Spanning Time and Space

Blending the original manga’s narrative with exclusive film-only elements, this suspenseful tale explores a curse that transcends time and space. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Venice, Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan: At a Confessional delivers a visually stunning cinematic experience unique to the series. Audiences can also look forward to hearing Rohan speak Heaven’s Door in Italian.

In Japan, the advance theater ticket design features one of the two teaser visuals recently revealed—Rohan seated in the priest’s chair within the confessional booth. His piercing gaze peeks through the partially closed door, creating a striking and powerful image. Buyers will also receive a special-edition postcard featuring an enigmatic visual: Rohan, hidden under a deep hood, set against a striking red background—perfectly encapsulating the film’s mysterious atmosphere.

Source : ORICON NEWS