Nippon TV is set to unveil two brand-new scripted formats for MIPCOM, "Murderous Encounter" (60min. x 10eps), a dark romantic mystery centered on two journalists, and "The Reluctant Preacher" (60min.x 10eps), a sharp comedy centered on an unmotivated high school teacher.
“We are proud to introduce two new scripted formats that, while distinct in their tone, setting, and approach, share a powerful common thread: a female protagonist's journey to overcome personal challenges and fight against injustice and crime. With fresh perspectives and narratives that build tension towards a thrilling finale, we are confident that these stories can be successfully localized, captivating audiences in any market,” commented Sayako Aoki, Head of International Sales, Content Business and Distribution, Nippon TV.
"Murderous Encounter," from the same producers of "My Lover’s Secret" and "Your turn to Kill", is a romantic crime thriller which focuses on two journalists who fall in love while investigating a sensational murder case until suspicion arises that he might be the serial killer. Riding the wave of today’s crime suspense boom, "Murderous Encounter" distinguishes itself by focusing on journalists at the heart of the investigation, while exploring the themes of media ethics, trust, and the blind spots of love.
"The Reluctant Preacher" follows an unmotivated teacher assigned to a troubled class, who unexpectedly transforms into a passionate preacher delivering bold sermons that inspire her students and shake up the entire school. With a relatable lead character and sharp, fast-paced dialogue, it turns serious social issues into an engaging and entertaining comedy. In its broadcast in Japan, the show ranked #1 in its time slot among children and #2 among teenagers. Netflix has acquired the global streaming rights, and the full series is now available worldwide.
The first episode of both series has surpassed 2 million total views on AVOD platforms.