On June 19th, a completion and screening ceremony of �BRAVE HEARTS Umizaru� (directed by Hasumi Eiichiro, release on July 13), the newest sequel to the popular �Umizaru� series, was held at the Tokyo International Forum. Eight cast members including Ito Hideaki (36), the star of the series, appeared at the screening.

The film is the 4th�sequel to the series; the 2nd�sequel, released in 2006, and the 3rd�sequel, released in 2010, were both popular hits that had the highest earnings for live-action Japanese movies in their respective release years. When Ito and the other cast members�appeared at the ceremony, approximately 4,000 people in attendance gave them a loud and warm welcoming.

In response, Ito stood on stage and shed tears of thanks as he said, �Sorry, I am not the kind of person [to shed tears], but it is because I am extremely touched��� He was proud as he said, �Even though there is pressure as a summer vacation movie, I have no doubt that it will succeed.�

Series regulars Kato Ai (29) and Sato Ryuta (32) also appeared deeply touched. Sato appealed to the audience with his confidence as he said, �The previous film had been billed as my last, but because of everyone�s backing, we are able to stand on this stage. We're really lucky people. We could create a piece we are satisfied with.�

Source & Image: Sanspo