TWICE's Sana to make screen debut opposite Japanese star Sato Takeru in romance film

Leading Japanese actor Sato Takeru and Sana of global idol group TWICE are set to star together in a romance film.

Production companies Cokes and NPO, along with Japanese producer JACON, announced Thursday that Sato and Sana have been cast as the leads in the Japanese film "Nyangi: Touching Your World" (working title).

The film is a romance fantasy centered on cats. Director Kwon Hyeok-chan, known for his stylish work on the drama series "Encounter" and "Goblin," will helm the project. Nam Dae-jung — director of the films "Love Reset" (2023) and "First Ride" (2025) and the drama series "Agent Kim Reactivated" — wrote the screenplay.

Sato, cast as male lead Tamaki, is one of Japan's most prominent actors, with acclaimed performances in "Rurouni Kenshin," "First Love" and the recent Netflix Japan original series "Glass Heart."

Sana will play female lead Nao in her first screen role. She is expected to bring her signature warmth and charm to the character.

"Nyangi: Touching Your World" is scheduled to begin production in Japan this fall.