The first Japanese film based on the real-life events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic is set to be released in June 2025. Titled Frontline, the movie will focus on the cruise ship Diamond Princess, which became a hotspot for the virus after arriving at Yokohama in February 2020. The movie is based on original scriptwriting and is produced by Warner Brothers Japan.
The Diamond Princess was carrying 3,711 people (2,666 guests and 1,045 crew) from 56 countries when it was hit by the first major outbreak of COVID-19 in Japan. In response, the country’s Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) was deployed to help manage the medical crisis, despite their lack of experience in handling an unknown virus.
The film stars Shun Oguri as Yūki Hideharu, the leader of the DMAT team, who is determined to save lives despite the risks. Tori Matsuzaka, Sōsuke Ikematsu, and Yōsuke Kubozuka play other key roles, including government officials and fellow medical staff. The movie highlights the emotional and physical toll of front-line workers and their sacrifices in the face of a global health emergency.
The film’s director, Kōsai Sekine, known for his acclaimed work in both advertising and film, said the project was an important opportunity for filmmakers to share a rare, moving story of heroism and compassion.
Watch the Frontline Trailer
The story focuses on the struggles of the nameless heroes who faced the large cluster, reflects the various human qualities that are highlighted by the virus, and shows the hope given to people such as compassion and goodwill, making it a deeply memorable story.
Frontline will be released nationwide in June 2025, offering audiences an emotional portrayal of the courage and resilience displayed by those who fought to save lives during the early days of the pandemic.
