I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 264 The Eve of the Election! Draft Polishing! Hiroshi Nohara's Draft!

On the eve of the election debate, the temporary command center of TV Tokyo was brightly lit, and the neon lights of Tokyo's night view outside the window were flashing, but not a trace of restlessness could be seen in the room.

Yoshihiro Shimazu sat in the center of the long table, with a stack of blank manuscript paper spread out in front of him. Nobuhiko Sakata, Toshihide Takada, Asumi, Eiji Kurosawa, and others sat around him on both sides, each holding data on people's livelihood and policy points. The atmosphere was serious but not without enthusiasm.

"Hiroshi-kun, we've been waiting for you!" Nobuhiko Sakata immediately stood up to offer his seat when he saw Hiroshi Nohara enter. "Tomorrow's debate will be crucial, especially the opening speech and the free debate. Your draft must both hit the nail on the head and reassure the public."

Hiroshi Nohara nodded, placed his briefcase on the table, took out a stack of papers covered in writing, and gently pushed them in front of Yoshihiro Shimazu: "Former President Shimazu, these are my speech and debate response drafts, which I wrote overnight based on recent polls and street feedback. The opening speech will focus on the 'Three Questions on People's Livelihood,' and the free debate will be prepared with strategies to address the points that Tanaka Mikami might attack."

Yoshihiro Shimazu picked up the manuscript and began to read it word by word, his eyes growing brighter with each reading.

The opening questions of "employment," "housing," and "the future" directly address the core contradictions facing Tokyo today. There are no empty slogans between the lines; instead, they are all life scenarios that ordinary people can relate to.

“When your child graduates from university and can’t find a stable job for three months, only able to make ends meet by doing odd jobs; when your family has to empty the savings of two generations just to buy a place to live in Tokyo; when your child asks you ‘Where is the future?’ and you can only remain silent—this is not the Tokyo we want.” Yoshihiro Shimazu read these words softly, his voice tinged with emotion. “Hiroshi-kun, you wrote so well. This is exactly what I wanted to say but couldn’t express fully!”

Takada Toshihide leaned over to look at the draft, his brows gradually relaxing: "This is a good angle! Tanaka Mikami will definitely talk a lot about real estate appreciation and urban expansion. Instead of arguing with him directly, we will use the pain points of people's livelihoods to ask questions and make voters realize how many people have sacrificed behind the real estate boom."

Asumi pointed to the strategy used in the free debate and said with admiration: "You anticipated that Tanaka Mikami would attack us for 'hindering economic development,' and the arguments you prepared for 'economic diversification' were very solid—the local tourism revenue boosted by 'A Bite of China,' the increase in the output value of traditional crafts, and the cultural consumption data brought by 'Super Transformation' are all real achievements, much more powerful than empty slogans of 'transformation.'"

"And here!" Eiji Kurosawa pointed to one of the pages. "In response to concerns about 'falling housing prices,' you proposed 'affordable housing as a safety net + healthy regulation of the real estate market.' This approach neither denies the reasonable value of real estate nor fails to provide a solution that ordinary people can accept, thus winning the support of centrist voters."

Yoshihiro Shimazu put down his notes, his tone full of anticipation: "Hiroshi-kun, how do you think I should phrase my speech tomorrow? Should I be more impassioned, or more composed?"

“Composed yet resolute,” Hiroshi Nohara replied immediately. “Former Shimazu president, your strength lies in your ‘pragmatism,’ not in being a inflammatory politician. When giving a speech, you can speak a little slower, but your eyes should be firm. When you mention the pain points of people’s livelihoods, show a little empathy, and when you mention policy promises, be resolute—make voters feel that you truly understand their difficulties and that you really have the ability to solve problems.”

He paused, then picked up the manuscript paper and demonstrated:

“For example, when you read the ‘Question about Housing,’ you can pause slightly, look at the camera as if you were looking at every family troubled by high housing prices, and speak with a slightly heavy tone. But when you then mention the affordable housing policy, your tone should rise and convey hope.”

Nobuhiko Sakata added, "Hiroshi is right! Tanaka Mikami likes to exaggerate in his speeches and speaks very fast. You are the perfect contrast to him, winning trust with your composure. Tomorrow's debate will not only be a contest of policies, but also a contest of personal charisma."

"If Tanaka Mikami attacks us during the free debate by saying that 'real estate devaluation will shrink people's assets,' how should I respond?" Shimazu Yoshihiro was still a little unsure and pressed for the key question.

Hiroshi Nohara flipped to the corresponding page of the draft response and pointed to the text: "You could say this: 'Mr. Tanaka, I acknowledge that rising real estate prices have benefited some people, but we must also see how many young people have postponed marriage and childbirth because of high housing prices? How many small and medium-sized enterprises have gone bankrupt because funds have poured into real estate and they haven't received development funds? True assets are not the housing prices built on a bubble, but stable jobs, comprehensive social security, and a bright future for children—these are the kinds of wealth that will not depreciate.'"

He looked up at Yoshihiro Shimazu, his tone solemn:

"You must remember not to let Tanaka Mikami lead you astray. No matter how much he talks about the benefits of real estate, you must steer the conversation back to people's livelihoods and the real lives of ordinary people."

Takada Toshihide nodded in agreement: "Hiroshi is right! We have done public opinion analysis. Tanaka Mikami's supporters are mostly people who already own property and have substantial assets, while our supporters are the vast majority of ordinary office workers, young people, and craftsmen. As long as we speak out their voices, we can win more support."

The polishing of the debate draft continues, with everyone offering supplementary suggestions from different perspectives. Discussions in the room rise and fall, but always revolve around the core principle of "people's livelihood as the foundation".

Holding up materials he had collected while filming heartwarming movies, Asano Kita suggested, "Mr. Shimazu, you could add a specific case to your speech tomorrow. I interviewed a young man who lives in a capsule apartment. He commutes two hours to work every day, spends half his salary on rent, and even a decent barbecue feels like a luxury. Sharing this case would be more touching than any data."

Hiroshi Nohara immediately nodded: "That's a great suggestion! Data is cold, but stories are warm. I'll add this case to my speech now to make the 'housing question' more concrete and impactful."

Takashi Ashikaga also spoke up. Although he is good at period dramas, he has a clear understanding of social realities: "Mikami Tanaka might say that our economic transformation policies will affect tax revenue and lead to a reduction in public services. You can respond with the example of the cooperation between TV Tokyo and TV Kanto - 'A Bite of China' drives local economic growth. Tax revenue not only did not decrease, but it increased due to the development of small and medium-sized enterprises and the prosperity of tourism. This is the actual benefit of 'culture-driven city development'."

"That's right!"

Asumi immediately added data, "According to statistics from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, after the broadcast of 'A Bite of China,' tourism tax revenue in Ibaraki, Mie, Chiba and other places increased by 15%, and the export value of traditional handicrafts increased by 23%. These data can be used directly to refute Tanaka's doubts."

Hiroshi Nohara quickly added case studies and data to the draft, his pen scratching across the paper.

As Yoshihiro Shimazu watched his focused expression, his unease gradually dissipated, replaced by a surge of confidence.

He knew that with such a group of professional and pragmatic people supporting him, and with such a compelling draft, he would definitely perform well in tomorrow's debate.

"By the way, Mr. Shimazu, you can bring up the topic of 'future' more during tomorrow's debate."

Hiroshi Nohara put down his pen, looked up, and said, “Young people are a key group in elections; they are more concerned about future development. You can promise that if elected, you will increase support for technological innovation and cultural entrepreneurship, establish a youth entrepreneurship fund, so that young people no longer have to worry about housing and can have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”

Nobuhiko Sakata laughed and said, "Hiroshi-kun, you've thought this through too thoroughly! Young people are the easiest group to be moved, and they are also the most willing to change. As long as you capture the hearts of young people, you've already won half the battle in the election."

Yoshihiro Shimazu picked up the revised draft and began to practice quietly.

His speech gradually became steady, his gaze grew increasingly firm, and when he read about young people starting their own businesses, his tone was filled with sincere expectation; when he read about the pain points in people's lives, his tone was filled with deep empathy. Everyone else in the room listened quietly, no one spoke, but they all felt the strength in his voice.

"How was it?" After the drill, Yoshihiro Shimazu looked at everyone, his tone filled with anticipation.

"Excellent!" Kurosawa Eiji was the first to applaud. "Mr. Shimazu, you are in excellent form right now, more natural and powerful than in any previous rehearsal. Keep this up tomorrow, and you will surely impress the voters."

"There's one more detail to note."

Hiroshi Nohara cautioned, “Tomorrow’s debate will be held at Tokyo TV, and they may arrange for a reporter to be biased towards Tanaka during the Q&A session. If you encounter a tricky question, don’t panic. First, smile and thank the person who asked the question, then calmly steer the topic back to people’s livelihood policies. Remember, our core principle is ‘speaking for ordinary people.’ As long as you stick to this core principle, you won’t go wrong.”

Takada Toshihide added, “I’ve already spoken with the media reporters who support us, and they will try their best to ask questions that allow you to fully demonstrate the policy’s advantages. For example, ‘How to guarantee youth employment’ or ‘How to better preserve traditional crafts’—you can answer these questions using the content from your draft.” Asumi glanced at his watch and said solemnly, “It’s getting late, Mr. Shimazu. You should go home and rest early tonight to get some rest. We’ll meet at the Tokyo TV station entrance at nine o’clock tomorrow morning for final preparations.”

Yoshihiro Shimazu nodded, carefully placed the draft into his briefcase, stood up, and bowed deeply to everyone: "Thank you all! Especially Hiroshi-kun, without you, I really don't know how I would have handled tomorrow's debate. And thank you to Director Sakata, Director Takada, Deputy Director Asumi, and everyone else for your support, I will remember it all. Tomorrow, I will do my best and live up to everyone's expectations!"

Hiroshi Nohara also stood up, his tone calm: "Former President Shimazu, you don't need to thank us. We support you not because of personal relationships, but because we believe that your policies can make Tokyo a better place and allow more ordinary people to live a better life. Tomorrow, we will be backstage cheering you on, so you can just focus on your debate."

……

The next morning, just as dawn was breaking, a large number of reporters and voters had already gathered in front of Tokyo TV station.

Yoshihiro Shimazu, dressed in a sharp dark blue suit with his hair neatly combed, walked into the television station surrounded by a crowd, a calm smile on his face, showing no sign of nervousness.

Backstage in the preparation room, Hiroshi Nohara was giving Yoshihiro Shimazu a final review: "Former President Shimazu, let me go over the core points of the free debate with you one last time: If Mikami Tanaka mentions real estate, you talk about people's livelihood; if he mentions economic growth, you talk about sustainable development; if he mentions experience, you talk about change. Remember, don't argue with him about right or wrong, but use facts and cases to let the voters make their own judgments."

Yoshihiro Shimazu nodded, closed his eyes, and silently read the beginning of his speech. When he opened his eyes again, his gaze was full of determination: "I've got it, Hiroshi-kun. Don't worry, today I will definitely convey our ideas clearly to every voter."

Nobuhiko Sakata handed him a glass of warm water: "Mr. Shimazu, have some water to soothe your throat. The debate will last 90 minutes, with 10 minutes for the opening speech, 60 minutes for the free debate, and 20 minutes for the closing statement. Keep a good pace and don't rush. Speak slowly so that the voters can hear and understand clearly."

"Also," Takada Toshihide leaned closer and lowered his voice, "Tokyo TV's Kazuo Takahashi might tamper with the equipment. We've already arranged for our technicians to be on standby, and they'll handle any problems immediately. You don't need to worry about that; just focus on the debate."

Asumi looked at Yoshihiro Shimazu's tie and reached out to adjust it for him: "Details determine success or failure. Your image today is very composed, which fits the image of a 'pragmatic leader.' When you step onto the debate stage, remember to keep smiling, look directly at the camera, and make eye contact with the voters."

Eiji Kurosawa patted Yoshihiro Shimazu on the shoulder and said in a bold tone, "Mr. Shimazu, show the courage you'd have in a samurai film! You're not running for office, you're fighting for justice, for the happiness of ordinary people. We're all backing you, you'll definitely win!"

Looking at the expectant faces around him, Yoshihiro Shimazu felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

Today's debate is not just his battle, but a battle for all those who believe in "people's livelihood as the foundation".

He took a deep breath and said firmly, "Everyone, thank you for your trust and support. Today, I will fight to the very end for the future of Tokyo and for the happiness of every ordinary person!"

Just then, a staff member knocked on the door and entered, speaking respectfully: "Mr. Shimazu, Mr. Tanaka Mikami has arrived. The debate will begin in half an hour. Please be prepared."

Yoshihiro Shimazu nodded, straightened his suit jacket, and said to everyone, "It's my turn to go on stage."

Hiroshi Nohara watched his retreating figure and suddenly spoke: "Former president of Shimazu, remember, people's livelihood and the future are always more important than short-term real estate booms. You are not fighting for a position, but protecting the hopes of countless people."

Yoshihiro Shimazu stopped and turned back to Hiroshi Nohara, smiling with unwavering certainty in his eyes: "I'll remember that, Hiroshi-kun."

As Yoshihiro Shimazu walked out of the preparation room, the atmosphere in the room became somewhat heavy.

Nobuhiko Sakata walked to the window, looked in the direction of the debate hall, and said with emotion, "Today is the day that will determine the future of Tokyo."

Takada Toshihide nodded: "I hope Mr. Shimazu can succeed. If Tanaka Mikami continues to govern, the real estate bubble will only get bigger and bigger, and when the economy collapses, it will be ordinary people who suffer."

Asumi looked at Hiroshi Nohara, her tone full of trust: "Hiroshi-kun, your draft is very solid, and Mr. Shimazu is in good condition. I believe we can definitely win."

Hiroshi Nohara didn't speak, but just looked in the direction of the debate hall, his heart filled with anticipation.

The outcome of this debate will not only determine Yoshihiro Shimazu's election success or failure, but also the future direction of Japan's economy.

He believes that the wheels of history will eventually roll forward, the people's eyes are discerning, and they will ultimately choose leaders who truly care about them.

Half an hour later, the debate officially began.

When Yoshihiro Shimazu stepped onto the debate stage and said to the camera, "This is not the Tokyo we want," everyone backstage held their breath.

They watched as Yoshihiro Shimazu calmly delivered his speech on the screen, as he clearly and logically responded to Tanaka's questions during the free debate, and as he moved every voter in front of the screen with real-life examples and solid data.

Hiroshi Nohara smiled faintly. He knew that they had already won half the battle in this debate.

The rest is up to the voters, to time, and to history's choice.

Regardless of the outcome, they have already made their utmost efforts for their beliefs and for the happiness of ordinary people.

And this is enough.

Inside the debate hall, Yoshihiro Shimazu's voice remained firm, echoing throughout Tokyo: "I promise that if elected, I will prioritize people's livelihoods, solve employment problems, control abnormal housing prices, and develop a diversified economy, so that everyone living in Tokyo can see hope for the future—this is the Tokyo I want, and the Tokyo that we all want!"

Upon hearing this, the people backstage burst into applause, their eyes filled with excitement and anticipation.

They knew that a new era might be on the horizon.

(End of this chapter)