Mayu Matsuoka

Exclusive Interview

From “GEEKS~Weirdos on the case~”

Mayu Matsuoka

Mayu Matsuoka stars in this awaited series on Thursday nights from 10 pm. We follow a group of women working at a police station, navigating complex dynamics within the team while delving into gossip sessions that inevitably lead to solving mysterious cases! Let’s hear what she has to say!

What was your impression when you first heard the title of this work?

When I first heard the title, I also learnt from the producer about the concept behind it. The story revolves around three “geeks” who, while having casual gossip, accidentally solve crimes. Detectives from the criminal investigation department come to hear about these solutions, and the credit ultimately goes to them. The geeks don't care about getting credit or promotions, so they willingly give it away. I was really drawn to this easygoing attitude. In a world overflowing with countless shows, I personally wanted a drama that you can watch casually while having a late dinner. Since it airs at 10 pm on Thursdays, I hope that people who work weekdays with just a day more to go, can enjoy it while unwinding with a drink, reflecting on the story in a relaxed manner.

What were your thoughts after reading the script?

The drama mainly focuses on dialogues. The characters played by myself, Minami Tanaka, and Karen Takizawa, casually chat about their weekday troubles, personal thoughts, or things they notice while watching TV. Through these conversations, they unexpectedly find clues to solve cases. It's a charming and unique way the story progresses. Our first filming session involved scenes of us talking in an izakaya (Japanese pub). I met Minami for the first time, and I had only briefly worked with Karen on a variety show. When I first read the script, I wondered how we would quickly become a cohesive team. However, once we gathered around the izakaya table and started chatting, we naturally clicked. Both are genuinely sincere and pure-hearted, making it easy to be myself around them. The first scene required a certain pace, but filming went smoothly, and we quickly became good friends. During breaks, Minami shares beauty tips, and Karen shares tasty snack recommendations. Although I don't have much to offer, we exchange our favorite items. I'm the type who buys things in bulk, so I often share my bulk-purchased snacks and daily essentials with them.

How do you feel about your role?

The three characters are known as the “energy-saving trio” because they leave work on time. But I see their energy-saving approach not as laziness or lack of motivation, but as a dedication to finishing their work perfectly by 5 pm. So along with the others, my character’s policy to work efficiently and effectively, allowing her to leave on time is something of an attraction. It’s not like they simply want to get out of work early, but rather I find their commitment to meeting deadlines very endearing. At home, she has a collection of jigsaw puzzles. Additionally, thanks to the props team, she is portrayed as a fan of frog-themed items. Her desk at her workplace and also at home are filled with frog trinkets, so I hope viewers will notice this aspect of her character too.

Do you share any similarities with her?

Through my character, I've realized that when you love something, you can become completely absorbed in it. For example, I like tea and sweets, but I wouldn't call myself an otaku (geek). The difference, I think, is that otakus are so passionate that they might bewilder those around them. My character gets lost in her jigsaw puzzles, and even I can get equally engrossed when talking about my favorite idols. Each of the three characters has their own geeky traits that help in solving cases, which adds a refreshing element to the show.

If you could have one of the main characters' abilities, which would you choose?

The role played by Karen, is a geography otaku. Her knowledge is incredibly practical in everyday life. For instance, she can identify locations from small details like a sign or the shape of a shrine. I often forget the names of great restaurants, so having the ability to instantly recognize places would be very useful.

How have Minami Tanaka and Karen Takizawa inspired you?

Karen is pure-hearted and has a unique way with words. Watching her, I've realized that even if someone is speaking ill of others, it probably doesn't affect her. During filming, she's always straightforward, asking questions like, “Is this what you mean?” If for a comedy scene when asked, “Could you give a bit more reaction here?” she might respond with, “Do you mean make a funny face or something?” I think it's wonderful to approach each question thoughtfully and ask why something is the way it is. Receiving fresh words every day feels like a breath of fresh air. This was my first-time meeting Minami. The atmosphere instantly brightens up when she's around. We were filming a somewhat heavy scene early in the morning, and the whole team was in a concentrated mode. The air was tense, but not overly so. Then, she entered the scene with a cheerful “Good morning!” Her voice was like a blooming flower as she greeted everyone and even asked, “Mayu, did you not sleep well last night?” I think everyone on set has fallen for her. She's the one who brings flower aura to our set.

How has your impression of the team changed before and after working with them?

What I love most about our team is the freedom to share opinions openly. For example, when setting up a camera, there might be times when the lighting crew finds the chosen spot inconvenient. In such cases, we might have to negotiate or even contend with each other. The dynamics can vary depending on our relationships, but with this team, it's refreshingly straightforward. We simply ask, “Can we set up here?” If the response is “No,” we just move on. This clear and efficient communication is one of the things I love most about our current team.

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