Initial D

About Initial D

Explore:

• Plot Summary
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music, Soundtrack

Plot Summary

Initial D is a 2005 television series that falls under the International Movies genre. The show follows the story of Takumi Fujiwara, a young boy who works at a gas station during the day and delivers tofu at night. Although leading a seemingly ordinary life, Takumi has gained exceptional street racing skills through years of delivering tofu on the treacherous Mt. Akina downhill route in Japan.

Initially uninterested in racing, Takumi is unexpectedly thrown into the world of street racing when he unknowingly defeats the RedSuns, a renowned street racing team from the region. As Takumi's reputation grows, he becomes a target for other rival teams, leading to intense and thrilling racing battles.

Making / Production

Initial D is based on a manga series written and illustrated by Shuichi Shigeno. The television series adaptation was created by Studio Comet and aired in 2005. The show combines traditional 2D animation with 3D CGI techniques to bring the exhilarating race scenes to life. The use of CGI allows for dynamic camera angles and realistic car movements, immersing viewers in the racing action.

Actors

• Takumi Fujiwara - Played by Jay Chou: Jay Chou portrayed the role of Takumi, capturing his reserved and introverted personality, as well as his extraordinary driving skills.
• Ryosuke Takahashi - Played by Edison Chen: Edison Chen portrayed Ryosuke, a skilled street racer who becomes Takumi's mentor and guide in the racing world.
• Natsuki Mogi - Played by Anne Suzuki: Anne Suzuki played the character of Natsuki, Takumi's love interest who becomes entangled in the street racing events.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Initial D became immensely popular in Japan, leading to the creation of multiple seasons, movies, and spin-offs.
• The show's title, Initial D, refers to the initial drift technique used in street racing, where drivers intentionally slide the rear tires to maintain control during high-speed cornering.
• Several real-life car enthusiasts were involved in the production to ensure accurate depictions of racing techniques and car customization.

Awards

Initial D received critical acclaim for its animation, storytelling, and portrayal of street racing culture. However, it did not receive any major awards during its initial release.

Quotes

• "I race to win!" - Takumi Fujiwara
• "The only tool you have in racing is your mind." - Ryosuke Takahashi
• "Don't underestimate the competition!" - Natsuki Mogi

Music, Soundtrack

The TV show Initial D features a diverse soundtrack with a mix of Eurobeat, J-pop, and rock music. The popular tracks include "Running in the 90s" by Max Coveri, "Deja Vu" by Dave Rodgers, and "Gas Gas Gas" by Manuel. The energetic and catchy music complements the intense racing scenes, enhancing the overall viewing experience.