Director Yoichi Sai's adaptation of the Sanpei Shirato manga "The Legend of Kamui" has found a new heroine. Late last year, Rinko Kikuchi was dropped from the cast after she suffered a serious injury during filming. Her character, a female ninja who clashes with the protagonist (played by Kenichi Matsuyama), is now being handled by Koyuki.

The action-packed film is said to be aiming for international release, especially in North America. In addition to Matsuyama, who has become popular around the world thanks to "Death Note," Koyuki was originally offered the part as a respected actress with some international exposure. She appeared in the 2003 film "The Last Samurai" with Tom Cruise, and she has also been cast in the upcoming "Blood: The Last Vampire" movie with Korean star Jun Ji-hyun. However, due to her schedule, Koyuki was unable to take on the role.

Filming started in November with Kikuchi, but after her injury, the project was delayed. At one point, there was even talk of the film being completely stopped. But Koyuki was offered the part again, and she agreed to come on board with some adjustments to the schedule. Koyuki begins filming her scenes this month, which include a sword fight and a horse riding scene.

The completed film is still scheduled for release in 2009.