Actor Jiro Sato, known for numerous supporting roles in television and film, finally has his first lead role in a movie. The picture is titled "Yoju: Mame Shiba" and is connected with a television drama that will air on UHF stations this winter.

The story follows a middle-aged bachelor who still relies on his parents, chronicling his growth as he goes on a journey with a newborn Shiba Inu. Filming for the drama is already under way, and scenes for the movie will start shooting next week. While the drama is set to begin in January, the film is scheduled for release in early summer.

Sato's most prominent movie role so far was second billing in "Memo," his directorial debut that was released this past March.