If you are looking for a movie that makes you think, then this production is for you. “Suspect X” is one of those stories that you try to unravel until you’re exhausted, and what makes it even more interesting is the mental struggle of its protagonists, who possess superior intelligence. Stories like this tend to captivate me, much like “Incarnation of Money,” albeit on a different level. Both feature intrigues where the goal is to see who makes the first move, outsmarting the other. This production follows the same pattern, although, in the end, it resembles nothing else.
Plot Overview of “Suspect X” (2008)
The plot revolves around a murder committed in self-defense and the intent to create an alibi to conceal the identity of the killer. The person covering the tracks possesses a superior mind, and the investigator trying to solve the case is also highly intelligent, which is why the authorities seek his assistance.
Cast of “Suspect X” (2008)
- Masaharu Fukuyama (known for Ryomaden, Galileo, Midsummer Formula) plays Manabu Yakawa, a physicist regularly consulted by the police to help solve complex cases, this murder being one of them—pointing to someone who seemingly has the perfect alibi.
- Kou Shibasaki (La Maison de Himiko, Battle Royale, Go) portrays Kaoru Utsumi, the detective in charge of the investigation, who follows her instincts and seeks Manabu’s help.
- Yasuko Matsuyuki (The Apollo King, Brain Man, Sunshine Ahead) plays Yasuko Hanaoka, a bento shop owner who, after escaping from her abusive husband, manages to settle into a quiet place with her daughter.
- Shinichi Tsutsumi (Strawberry Night, The Holy Monsters, Liar Game) is Tetsuya Ishigami, an extremely intelligent math teacher with an appreciation for beauty, who used to be friends with Manabu. Their paths cross again after many years due to the investigation.
- Kazuki Kitamura (Samurai Gangsters, Midnight Formula, Good Friends) stars as Shunpei Kusanagi, Kaoru’s partner, who always has sharp insights into the cases.
Commentary on the Film’s Development
I cannot reveal much about how the events unfold, as it is a thriller, and doing so would spoil a significant part of the movie. The story transcends mere intrigue; it includes particular details that make it extraordinarily romantic on a different level.
Inspiration and Adaptations
“Suspect X” has several adaptations, including the Korean film “Perfect Number,” as well as prequels and sequels in drama format and TV movies. The famous series “Galileo” initiates this saga, followed by the latest film “Midsummer Formula,” which, unlike all previous iterations, features a nearly entirely different cast, except for the consistent lead, Masaharu Fukuyama.