Former Nogizaka46 member Kazumi Takayama's debut novel (published by KADOKAWA) has been adapted into an animated film "Trapezium," which is released today. Takayama, the author, and her former groupmate Nanase Nishino from Nogizaka46, both make their voice acting debut in this film.

The story revolves around a high school student, Yu Higashi, who dreams of becoming an idol. She sets herself strict rules: (1) not using social media, (2) not having a boyfriend, (3) remaining unnoticeable at school, and (4) befriending beautiful girls from the north, south, east, and west to achieve her dream. She attends Joushuu East High School in the "Joushuu" peninsula area and plans to make friends with cute girls attending high schools in the west, south, and north.

Takayama and Nishino play the roles of grandfathers who are part of a volunteer group that includes a foreign language interpreter played by Uchimura Teruyoshi as Hideichi Itami. Known as the "Takasemaru" duo, a nickname fondly used for the close-knit pair from the first generation of Nogizaka46, their recording session was a realization of their longstanding friendship.

It's been two years since the duo last worked together during Nogizaka46's "10th Anniversary Live." The initiative to offer Nishino the role of a grandfather came from Takayama recalling, "Back in our group days, we used to compete over who could speak like an old lady better, and Nacchan (Nishino) was really good at it."

Nishino commented, "I'm glad I could record with Kazumi. It would have been lonely by myself. It was a lot of fun to perform." Takayama also reflected, "I based my performance on an image of a grandfather I saw while writing the novel."

Kazumi Takayama's Comment

While discussing the movie production with the staff, the topic of casting for the grandfather role came up unexpectedly. I remembered that Nacchan (Nishino) was excellent at mimicking an old lady's voice. We used to say she should pursue voice acting. Since she's also been acting, I thought maybe she could do it and suggested it to the staff, who liked the idea. Moreover, there was another grandfather role, and it turned out that I would play it, but I get nervous just thinking about that scene. I tried to make my voice sound as close as possible to an old man's by leaning forward during the recording.

Nanase Nishino's Comment

I was surprised to receive the offer.
But what made me happiest was that Kazumin (Takayama) suggested it, so I gladly accepted.
It might be hard to imagine what a grandfather role entails, so I hope it'll be a fun surprise.
If I had to record alone, it would have felt daunting, but recording together made it enjoyable.

Edit By Taimu Tsuji
Source ORICON NEWS