Haruka Ayase stars in ‘First Voice’ inspired by landmark Japanese harassment lawsuit

New behind-the-scenes images have been released for the upcoming film ‘First Voice’, starring Haruka Ayase. Directed by Tetsu Maeda, the movie is inspired by the real-life 1989 Fukuoka sexual harassment lawsuit, which was Japan’s first case of its kind and played a pivotal role in bringing the concept of harassment into public consciousness.

The story is set during the bubble economy era and follows Michiko Asahi (Ayase), a lawyer who takes on a challenging harassment case to support a woman (First Summer Uika) who was forced to leave her job due to unfair treatment. The film aims to blend social commentary with entertaining storytelling.

The released making-of shots capture the cast’s dedication, showing intense courtroom scenes and serious discussions with the director, alongside lighter moments of camaraderie and laughter among the cast members, including Honoka Matsumoto and Oji Suzuka.