Immerse yourself in the world of Kazuko Imai, a gifted Japanese thespian whose indelible influence on both the silver screen and television has left an indelible mark on the Japanese entertainment scene. In this comprehensive article, we'll delve into her illustrious filmography, exploring her groundbreaking roles that beautifully showcased her exceptional acting prowess – roles that have significantly contributed to shaping the entertainment landscape in Japan.
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Films
1. The Castle of Sand
Join two relentless detectives on their quest to unravel a gruesome murder mystery in "The Castle of Sand. " Set in the midst of bustling Tokyo, the duo delves into the dark corners of a Tokyo rail yard, where an old man lies bludgeoned to death. As they dig deeper, they discover a web of secrets, lies, and forgotten memories. Will they uncover the truth behind the crime, or will it fall into the sands of history? Get ready for an intense, gripping ride through 1970s Japan in this intriguing mystery.
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IMDb Rating: 7.3
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TMDb Rating: 7.31
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Release Date: 1974-10-19
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Runtime: 143.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
2. Story of a Prostitute
Swept into a world of military brutality as a "comfort woman, " Harumi's life takes a surprising turn when she is forced to service Lieutenant Narita. But amidst the chaos, she finds solace in the tender heart of his direct subordinate, Mikami. Director Seijun Suzuki masterfully blends a heart-wrenching love story with a daring exploration of code-breaking, military tradition, and feminine resilience, shining a light on Harumi's struggle to navigate life and honor.
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IMDb Rating: 7.3
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TMDb Rating: 6.618
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Release Date: 1965-02-27
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Runtime: 96.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
3. Cleopatra: Queen of Sex
Time-traveling trio embarks on a thrilling journey back to Ancient Egypt, befriending the enigmatic Cleopatra and her legendary Roman lovers. While unraveling an unholy plot from their future, they dive deep into the allure of Cleopatra's world, ultimately rewriting the history of power, love, and danger.
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IMDb Rating: 6.1
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TMDb Rating: 5.577
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Release Date: 1970-09-15
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Runtime: 113.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
4. Edo Porn
Dive into the world of Edo Porn, a movie that takes you on a journey with the legendary woodblock artist, Hokusai. As a widower seeking financial stability, Hokusai and his daughter Oei find themselves living in the home of Hokusai's friend, Bakin. This film brings to life the colorful and intriguing world of Edo period Japan, blending history with the bold and unconventional themes of the adult genre. Experience the richness of this bygone era as you follow Hokusai's story, filled with passion and creativity.
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IMDb Rating: 6.5
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TMDb Rating: 6.0
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Release Date: 1981-09-12
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Runtime: 119.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
5. The Yen Family
Journey back to the 1980s in Japan during the bubble era with "The Yen Family" (aka "The Murakami Family"). This enchanting home comedy takes you on a delightful, humor-filled exploration into the daily lives of an eccentric bunch. These family members join forces, accumulating a modest fortune while poking fun at the absurdities of life through a clever blend of irony and satire. Experience the charm and whimsy of this timeless tale set in the heart of Japan's rich cultural landscape.
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IMDb Rating: 6.7
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TMDb Rating: 5.9
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Release Date: 1988-05-14
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Runtime: 113.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
6. Rika: The Mixed-Blood Girl
Discover the captivating tale of Rika: The Mixed-Blood Girl, released in 1972. This gripping novel explores the life of Rika, a half-Japanese, half-American woman who faces the turbulent journey of growing up in a challenging world. Through her transformation from an ordinary girl to the fearless leader of a powerful all-girl crime gang, Rika's story unfolds. Embark on the exciting and dramatic journey of Rika in her rise to becoming an unstoppable force behind her gang. This enthralling narrative kicks off a thrilling trilogy that will leave you wanting more.
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IMDb Rating: 6.2
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TMDb Rating: 4.833
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Release Date: 1972-11-26
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Runtime: 92.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
7. Last Friends
Get ready to rewind the clock and experience the untold stories of camaraderie and courage in "Last Friends". This powerful 1995 Japanese drama, based on the lives of three college rugby players drafted to serve in the military during WWII, takes you on an emotional roller coaster. As these men face the harsh realities of war, they form an unbreakable bond, proving that love and friendship can see them through even the darkest times. With an incredible production commemorating the 50th anniversary of the end of WWII, this unforgettable tale of resilience is a must-watch.
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IMDb Rating: 5.8
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TMDb Rating: 5.0
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Release Date: 1995-06-03
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Runtime: 129.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
8. The Far Road
Take a journey to the northern part of Japan during the steam locomotive era with "The Far Road. " This sensitive film spans nearly 30 years, capturing the struggles of the wife of a railroad worker as she battles against fierce local class restrictions and her husband's education. Experience the emotional rollercoaster of love, loss, and hope during this transformative period.
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IMDb Rating: 6.2
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TMDb Rating: 7.5
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Release Date: 1977-09-11
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Runtime: 114.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
9. Kita no kuni kara '92 Sudachi Part 1
Discover the heartwarming tale of Sudachi Part 1, where a man leaves behind his busy life in Tokyo to start anew in the rural countryside of Hokkaido. Alongside his children, he faces challenges without modern conveniences like running water or electricity. As time passes, the family's struggles continue when the older son returns to the big city for school and the daughter strives to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse. Their journey is filled with hope, determination, and the power of community support.
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IMDb Rating: 8.0
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TMDb Rating: 6.0
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Release Date: 1992-05-22
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Runtime: 118.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
10. Lost Virgin
Experience the tale of a young nineteen-year-old office girl in "Lost Virgin, " released in 1968. This heartwarming and engaging film follows her journey as she navigates the path to love and self-discovery. With a runtime of just under an hour and a half, "Lost Virgin" offers a captivating story that blends humor, romance, and drama. Don't miss out on this touching and timeless classic!
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TMDb Rating: 5.0
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Release Date: 1968-11-02
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Runtime: 82.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: "JP"]
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Status: Released
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11. Tokyo Air Raid Glass Rabbit
Dive into the historical depths of "Tokyo Air Raid Glass Rabbit, " a 1979 film based on the autobiographical novel by Toshiko Takagi. Set in the tumultuous closing days of World War II, this gripping drama brings to life the untold stories of those caught in the chaos of war. Experience the raw emotions and unrelenting resilience of the characters as they navigate through the air raid-torn streets of Tokyo.
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Release Date: 1979-07-14
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Runtime: 105.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
12. A Brief Message from the Heart
A heartwarming tale, "A Brief Message from the Heart" explores the emotional turmoil of a young woman as she attempts to mend her fractured relationship with her mother. The mother, in a desperate attempt to protect and provide for the family, left them for a new life with another man. As the daughter grapples with the complexities of forgiveness and acceptance, she embarks on a journey of personal growth, learning to understand the depths of love and sacrifice.
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IMDb Rating: 6.5
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Release Date: 1995-11-23
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Runtime: 112.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
13. The Tomb & the Divorce
Get ready for a whirlwind of emotions as Yoshinori, a cemetery land salesman, battles through his stagnant marriage and the challenges of his peculiar clients. Join him on his journey to unravel the mysteries surrounding the tomb and the divorce, and discover the unexpected twists that await in this captivating film.
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Release Date: 1993-07-31
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Runtime: 107.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
14. Fighting Against The Incurable Disease Aplastic Anemia – Now You Are In The Light
Step into the light and join a heartwarming journey with "Fighting Against The Incurable Disease Aplastic Anemia – Now You Are In The Light. " Released in 1978, this inspiring film tells the story of a determined individual who takes on the challenge of battling Aplastic Anemia. Follow the extraordinary tale of hope, love, and resilience as you witness the triumph of the human spirit. Don't miss this uplifting and emotional cinematic experience.
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Release Date: 1978-10-28
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Runtime: 108.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
15. Tales of the Bizarre: 2009 Spring Special
Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience as "Tales of the Bizarre: 2009 Spring Special" captivates its audience with an intriguing plot and star-studded cast. Released in March 2009, this unique movie has a runtime of 115 minutes, leaving viewers with plenty of time to immerse themselves into the mysterious and bizarre world it brings to life. With an original language of Japanese, "Tales of the Bizarre: 2009 Spring Special" is a must-see for fans of the genre and an exciting exploration into the unknown.
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Release Date: 2009-03-30
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Runtime: 115.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
TV Shows
1. Animated Classics of Japanese Literature
Embark on a captivating journey through the world of Japanese literature with "Animated Classics of Japanese Literature", an enchanting series that brings the essence of modern masterpieces to life. The collection showcases a diverse range of authors, from Higuchi Ichiyou to Mishima Yukio, each sharing their unique stories in beautifully animated episodes. This series is not just a treat for literary enthusiasts, but also an introduction to the rich and varied tapestry of Japanese literature that has evolved over the past century. Prepare to be captivated by the spellbinding tales and enchanting animation of this captivating series.
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Original Name: 青春アニメ全集
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [30]
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Status: Ended
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Original Language: ja
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Type: Scripted
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First Air Date: 1986-04-25
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Last Air Date: 1986-12-26
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 32
2. Takeshi-kun, Hai!
Hai!, that iconic 1980s Japanese comedy series, takes us on a heartwarming and mischievous journey with the young and spirited Takeshi Kitano and his loving family living in the bustling slums of Tokyo. This delightful television show masterfully weaves humor and drama together, engrossing viewers in the charming story of the relatable and endearing Takeshi and his family as they face and overcome life's many challenges.
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Original Name: たけしくんハイ!
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TMDb Rating: 6.0
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [19]
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Status: Ended
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Origin Country: []
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Original Language: ja
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Type: Scripted
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First Air Date: 1985-07-15
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Last Air Date: 1986-10-27
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Number of Seasons: 2
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Number of Episodes: 30
3. Against The Grain
Against The Grain, known as "男たちの旅路" in its original Japanese language, is a compelling four-season series that aired from 1976 to 1979. This intriguing drama features employees of a security company, all hailing from diverse backgrounds and generations, who must collaborate to tackle various challenging issues. With 12 riveting episodes exploring their interpersonal struggles and successes, this scripted series offers an immersive journey into the lives of these fascinating characters.
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Original Name: 男たちの旅路
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TMDb Rating: 8.0
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [25]
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Status: Ended
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Original Language: ja
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Type: Scripted
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First Air Date: 1976-02-28
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Last Air Date: 1979-11-24
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Number of Seasons: 4
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Number of Episodes: 12
4. Asami Mitsuhiko Mysteries
Experience the thrilling world of crime mysteries in the iconic Japanese TV series, Asami Mitsuhiko Mysteries. Based on the captivating novels by Yasuo Uchida, this mesmerizing show from 1987 to 1990 stars the talented Yutaka Mizutani. With 8 gripping episodes, prepare to unravel the enigmatic stories that have remained one of Japan's best-kept secrets.
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Original Name: 浅見光彦ミステリー
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [110]
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Status: Ended
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Original Language: ja
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Type: Scripted
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First Air Date: 1987-09-08
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Last Air Date: 1990-07-03
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 8
