From her breakout role in Rebirth to her memorable performances in Ashita, Mama ga Inai, Konomi Watanabe has captured audiences as one of Japan's most promising child actresses. The Japan Academy Prize recognized her talent early on, naming her one of the seven Newcomers of the Year in 2011. This roundup explores the movies and TV shows that have shaped her impressive career as a youngster in the entertainment industry.
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Films
1. Rebirth
In Rebirth, a troubled mother named Kiwako takes matters into her own hands when her relationship crumbles and she abducts the baby of the man she was having an affair with. Raising the child as her own, she finds solace in their bond until authorities finally catch up with them four years later. Tension is high as the truth unfolds, revealing the lengths people are willing to go for love and a sense of belonging.
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IMDb Rating: 7.2
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TMDb Rating: 7.15
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Release Date: 2011-04-29
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Runtime: 147.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
2. Why did the girl have to lose her memory?
Scientist of the heart: Narumi Saku's challenge
In "Why did the girl have to lose her memory? ", a locked-up little girl with no memory is discovered in the suspect's house, bringing a challenging case for assistant psychology professor Narumi Saku. As he tries to counsel her and uncover her true identity, he embarks on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and personal growth, all while navigating the complex world of human memory.
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IMDb Rating: 6.8
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TMDb Rating: 9.0
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Release Date: 2014-10-01
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Runtime: 90.0 minutes
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
3. The Driver
Experience an adrenaline-pumping tale of risk and determination with "The Driver". This thrilling short film, set in the heart of Japan, follows a skilled protagonist who takes the wheel of fate in his hands. As the stakes rise and the clock ticks, you'll be on the edge of your seat, rooting for this unstoppable force.
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Release Date: 2015-10-11
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Original Language: ja
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Origin Country: ["JP"]
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Status: Released
TV Shows
1. Beppin-san
Step into the world of Beppin-san, a heartwarming and emotional journey through the early Showa period. Follow Sumire, a young girl born in the bustling uptown of Kobe, as she courageously overcomes wartime devastation and pursues her passion for creating children's clothing. Discover the triumphs and struggles of this inspiring woman as she establishes the first-ever children's goods store in Japan. Beppin-san brings you a poignant tale of resilience and hope, perfect for viewers of all ages.
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Original Name: べっぴんさん
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TMDb Rating: 4.5
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [15]
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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: 2016-10-04
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Last Air Date: 2017-04-02
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 151
2. Segodon
Tucked away in the beautiful Satsuma domain of present day Kagoshima Prefecture stands the tale of Segodon. Here, a simple yet honest man named Saigo Takamori, born into poverty, catches the eye of his charismatic feudal lord, Shimazu Nariakira. Nariakira captivates Saigo with his assertion that the love of people is what will enrich and strengthen their nation. Entranced by these words, Saigo takes on Nariakira's secret mission, embarking on a journey that sets the stage for the Meiji Restoration. What follows is an exploration of Saigo's mysterious life, full of exiles, marriages, and battles against the Tokugawa Shogunate. Though he succeeded in the restoration, Saigo ultimately loses his life in a fight with the new Meiji government. Segodon captivates us with its blend of history, mystery, and a man who will forever be a symbol of bravery and determination.
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Original Name: 西郷どん
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TMDb Rating: 8.2
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [45]
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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: 2018-01-07
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Last Air Date: 2018-11-25
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 47
3. Keiji 7-nin
Join Amagi Yu, an eccentric detective assigned to the so-called "graveyard of detectives, " where elite officers find themselves in an unusual predicament. With a keen focus on time and its importance, Amagi tackles intriguing cases alongside an oddball team of detectives. Don't miss out on this thrilling blend of suspense and mystery in Keiji 7-nin.
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Original Name: 刑事7人
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TMDb Rating: 6.8
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [60]
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Status: Returning Series
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In Production: 1
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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: 2015-07-15
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Last Air Date: 2023-08-09
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Number of Seasons: 9
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Number of Episodes: 85
4. Angel Heart
In the captivating "Angel Heart, " follow Ryo Saeba, a seasoned private detective, and City Hunter, as he rids society of evil alongside his trusted partner, Kaori Makimura. Their lives take a shocking turn when an unexpected accident leads to Kaori's tragic death, and her heart is transplanted into an enigmatic woman, Xiang-Ying. Guess who shows up right in front of Ryo? Get ready for a thrilling ride filled with twists and suspense, all taking place within the fast-paced world of crime and justice in Japan.
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Original Name: エンジェル・ハート
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TMDb Rating: 6.2
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [49]
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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: 2015-10-11
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Last Air Date: 2015-12-06
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 9
5. Osoroshi
Experience the mystical world of "Osoroshi", a captivating Japanese television series that aired in 2014 for just five episodes. This engaging show dives deep into the secrets of the Ōshima Island, where a curious young girl named Nao discovers a magical world filled with fantastical creatures and extraordinary beings. Watch as Nao's adventure unfolds, bringing joy and wonder to the island's inhabitants. Prepare to be enchanted by this captivating series that showcases the best of Japanese animation. Don't miss the chance to explore the magical realms of "Osoroshi".
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Original Name: おそろし～三島屋変調百物語
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TMDb Rating: 6.0
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [58]
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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: 2014-08-30
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Last Air Date: 2014-09-27
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 5
6. Reed of Glass
Reed of Glass, a captivating miniseries released in 2015, follows the life of Setsuko Koda, who is married to her mother's ex-lover. As her husband, Kiichiro, finds himself in a car accident, Setsuko is forced to reflect on her own past. This emotional journey takes a dramatic turn when she takes it upon herself to help a young girl facing abuse.
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Original Name: 硝子の葦
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TMDb Rating: 9.0
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [52]
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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: Miniseries
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First Air Date: 2015-02-21
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Last Air Date: 2015-03-14
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 4
7. Tomorrow, Mom Won't Be Here
Join Maki and her newfound friends in "Tomorrow, Mom Won't Be Here, " a heartwarming drama set in a safe and nurturing orphanage. With their mother in jail, Maki and her friends embark on a journey of love, friendship, and self-discovery as they navigate life in Kogamo no Ie. Discover the powerful bonds forged between these children who have experienced the unimaginable, and watch as they come together to create a brighter future for themselves. Don't miss out on this heartfelt tale of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
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Original Name: 明日、ママがいない
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TMDb Rating: 7.5
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [53]
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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: 2014-01-15
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Last Air Date: 2014-03-12
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 9
8. The Reason Mom and Papa Live
When newlywed cancer patients, Kenichi and Yoshioka, receive a shocking prognosis, their love for their two young children becomes their driving force in "The Reason Mom and Papa Live". Despite being faced with grim diagnoses, the couple stays strong and positive, ensuring that this difficult journey doesn't define them. This heart-wrenching, yet life-affirming, story unfolds through their optimism in the face of adversity, proving that love can indeed conquer all.
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Original Name: ママとパパが生きる理由。
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Languages: ["ja"]
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Episode Runtime: [50]
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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: 2014-11-20
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Last Air Date: 2014-12-18
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Number of Seasons: 1
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Number of Episodes: 5
