It has been announced that a sequel to the drama series "Kenzo Kitakata's Water Margin," starring actor Yuji Oda and broadcast and streamed on WOWOW and Lemino, will be produced and broadcast and streamed in 2027. Following the announcement of the sequel, director Setsuro Wakamatsu and producer Yasuaki Ohara have provided comments.
The original work is Kenzo Kitakata's landmark historical epic novel series, "Water Margin" (19 volumes in total, Shueisha Bunko). It is a reimagining of "Water Margin," considered one of the three great classic novels of China, and has sold over 11.6 million copies in total. It is the first of a trilogy of "Great Water Margin" series, which will later be followed by "The Legend of Yang Ling" and "The Legend of Yue Fei."
The story is set in China during the late Northern Song dynasty (early 12th century). It is a tale of rebellion by "outcasts" who lament the corrupt world and strive to uphold justice even if it means defying the law. The story depicts the "will to resist unjust power" and "bonds of friendship" in a grand ensemble drama that resonates even today. In addition to Song Jiang (played by Oda), the cast includes Chao Gai (played by Takashi Sorimachi), the leader of Liangshan, Lin Chong (played by Kazuya Kamenashi), the spearman, Yang Zhi (played by Shinnosuke Mitsushima), and his wife, Jinmi (played by Haru).
Regarding the sequel, director Wakabayashi said, "New characters will appear in both the 'Ryozanpaku' and 'Shorenji' camps, and they will make a strong impression," while producer Ohara appealed, "Mr. Kitakata's original work has 19 volumes in total. The journey continues. The story will become even more dynamic and unfold at a furious pace."
The drama currently airing and streaming will conclude with its seventh episode on March 29th at 10 PM, and a Teaser trailer for a sequel will be released after the broadcast.
◇Comments from Director Setsuro Wakamatsu
Driven by the message to "forge a path to the future," Kitakata Kenzo's "Water Margin" seems to have deeply inspired many people. Perhaps they are applauding the incredible amount of effort and budget invested, the sheer passion and attention to detail. Many are likely drawn to the story of Song Jiang, a man who is not particularly strong, and how powerful figures are fatefully drawn to and gather around him one after another.
I really want people living in Japan today to watch this drama. I'm sure they will feel the meaning and value of adapting "Water Margin" into a film in this era, and that it will reach those in the depths of darkness, giving them the courage to open the door to a new world. In the sequel, new characters will appear in both the "Liangshan" and "Qinglian Temple" camps, making a powerful impression. The battle between these men who divide the country will continue to unfold with increasing suspense and excitement, and I'm sure it will be an unmissable and thrilling watch. I would appreciate your support.
◇Comment from producer Yasuaki Ohara
We are pleased to announce the production of a sequel series to "Kenzo Kitakata's Water Margin." Since its broadcast and streaming began in February, we have received a truly tremendous response. We have felt an incredible amount of energy every day. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported and watched this work. We believe that the passionate performances of the cast, the teamwork and enthusiasm of the staff, and the light emanating from the original work have led us this far.
The original manga by Kitakata-sensei consists of 19 volumes. The journey continues. The story will become even more dynamic, unfolding at a furious pace. In this sequel, you will meet new companions. There will be farewells. And we will also attempt to adapt one of the most popular scenes from the original manga into animation. We, the production team, are looking forward to the day when we can see this new landscape together with all of you who have "gathered" together.
