Arashi Pimp Post
Notes: This pimp post was originally posted in aroma_teaparty. Because the community had been deleted, I decided to repost this to my own journal. I am still mourning over the loss of four pages of comments there... I know most of the links I posted here are broken but Arashi's streaming videos have been taken down really fast lately and I couldn't find the substitutes. Feel free to tell me if you have other links/sources to the videos. Now, I'm also a contributor at Arashidex (links below), where you can find more links and informations. Please credit me, jadeswallow and give a link back to this entry if you want to copy anything from this pimp post. Thanks!
If you’re in Asian fandom, you must have heard of Arashi, but who are they? Do you want to know more about them? Are you a newcomer in this fandom and confused about where you should start? Fear not because this pimp post will introduce you further of an idol group which is so popular in Japan that their popularity is labeled as a social phenomenon.
The facts first, Arashi (嵐) which means Storm, is a group consist of five boys men under Johnny’s Entertainment agency. They debuted in Hawaii in 1999 carrying the mission to storm the world. Well, 10 years later, they haven't been successful in storming the world yet but they surely have stormed thousands of fangirls’ hearts with their awesomeness.
They didn’t have it easy at first, they had tough experiences when they were not popular enough but they have never given up and they have never complained. They’re slow risers but now they have broken so many new records. So, what exactly makes them different? Why are they able to monopolize so many awards in Oricon Charts? Furthermore, they’re also the first artist to put 4 of their singles in Oricon Top 5, first to monopolize the top 2 single spots for two years running, first in 21 years to monopolize top 3 singles, first to monopolize Best Single, Best DVD, Best Album, and Top Sales categories in a year, and the first artist who performed for 3 days straight in Kokuritsu Olympic Stadion, with more than 76.000 audiences each day. Surprisingly, the answers are not because they’re cool, or because they’re handsome, or because they have amazing singing and dancing abilities. They are the living proof that you can become big in the entertainment business just by being yourselves.
Now...who are they? First, let me introduce you to the members. Let’s start from the oldest to the youngest, shall we?
Ohno Satoshi
Ohno was appointed as the leader (or as Japanese say it, ‘Riidaa’) when he won a rock-paper-scissors game forced on them by one of their seniors. The title is actually just a nickname since he created a new way of leading his group... by not leading them at all xD. It doesn’t mean that Ohno is useless, he’s doing his job but he doesn’t show it off to everyone. In fact, Matsujun always says how Arashi could become as they are today because Ohno never forces them to do things in his way.
Now, how do we get started to know Ohno? It’s a big wonder how someone with a personality like Ohno’s can hit big in the entertainment business. It has been getting better lately, but when you watch videos from a few years back, you’ll notice how spaced-out he was. All the time, when he talks -- and even at concerts -- you can see that his mind was wandering elsewhere. He’s the quietest member in Arashi and one time he even forgot to speak in their TV show, so now the members have to make sure that he talks during their shows and interviews. Of course, Ohno has an excuse to explain why he doesn’t talk much, which is to save his energy!
With this character, he’s supposed to be the underdog of the group but somehow it never happens since the other members love and shower him with attentions. Yes, all of them love him so much, it feels like he’s a yummy doughnut and everyone look at him with their forks ready. Who can blame them? Just look at him. Speaking of doughnut, Ohno is not picky with food. He can eat everything and will always comment with his trademark “Umai!” (delicious). Oh, by everything, I mean everything.
Ohno is one of the nicest men you’ll ever know. During these 10 years, he has never been angry. He’s also nice to fans, always tries to spot fans’ uchiwas in concerts, communicates and does things he is asked to do. He’s very close to his family, and for 28 years, he didn't buy his own clothes because his mother bought them for him. He doesn't even buy his underwear because he will receive them as presents. All the members have recognized the brand and color too well and will avoid buying it since it’s ‘Riidaa’s underwear’.
Before you think that Ohno is not a good idol, you have to know he is a man of many talents. He’s the best dancer and singer in Arashi, a great actor who has acted in many stage plays before finally acted in television dramas, as well as a true Johnny’s idol because he can do back flip and cartwheel really well. Furthermore, he’s a great artist who has held his own exhibition, FREESTYLE, where he shown many kinds of works such as graffiti, clay dolls, and drawings. When he is serious about something, he could really be excellent in that area.
While we’re on the topic of things he loves, we have to mention his obsession: fishing! He loves fishing so much that he will go every time he’s free and his record of fishing is 25-hours straight! Sadly, the higher-ups in the company don’t like it since Ohno’s skin is getting darker and darker. He was even scolded by makeup artists because they couldn’t find foundations to match his skin color. Therefore, Ohno’s resolution for 2010 is skin whitening!
Ohno is a truly simple-minded and humble person. He loves onsen, he wants to open a bakery shop, and he wants to build a house with his own hands. He may not speak much, but he always watches and takes care of his members in his own way. Ohno has a truly remarkable personality and a big heart, and as Aiba once said, he doesn’t have to change because Riidaa is the best the way he is!
Ohno doesn’t really care that I’m trying to promote him here
Videos
Rain and Take Me Faraway, Ohno’s solos, watch out for his moves
Kumori nochi Kaisei, Ohno’s solo PV
Riidaa is unbelievable, everyone complained about Ohno behind his back
The stressful life of Ohno Satoshi, an ongoing story of Ohno's wristband, Ohno's mom, and Ohno's friend, Matsujun.
Sammi, Ohno’s transexual personality when he’s drunk
Recognizing songs, Ohno’s battle to guess Arashi songs
Sakurai Sho
Sho acts as the rapper in Arashi and he’s known for his nickname ‘Keio Boy’ that he got for graduating from one of the Ivy League-universities in Japan, Keio. When Sho was a junior, he’s the representative of all the rules and even now he’s very much respected by his juniors -- who call him ‘Sakurai-sama’, while his seniors claimed than his hard working behaviors should be stopped.
Sho is famous for making three breakthroughs in Johnny’s: writing his own rap lyrics -- called Sakurap by fans, created ‘go to college’ boom within Johnny’s, and becomes a newscaster. Yes, a newscaster in a boyband. He is smart, diligent, and really organized. Sho reads three newspapers a day, and as the most well-versed member, acts as the unofficial MC of the group. Sho is also the one who has the most charisma during live performances and concerts, oh and the sexiest too.
Seems to perfect to be true? Just wait, because Sho has one weakness. He fails. A lot. This makes him entitled to another nickname: Captain Failboat. He may look as the manliest within Arashi, yet he has no athletic reflexes at all. While his brain understands, his body is so stiff that it can’t move well in any sports (expect soccer, but we don’t know if it’s true since Sho rarely plays soccer). His air muscles work for nothing as he even lost to Nino the toothpick. He’s also one of a few Johnny’s who can’t do a backflip, claiming himself as the last of the bottom in the matter of athletic abilities. His failures don’t stop there since Sho is also afraid of ghosts, heights, and well, almost everything, in which he will shout “Mecha kowai, mecha kowai!!" (Super scary, super scary!) While he considers himself as an artist, Sho sucks at drawings too. His drawing ability is the same with a kindergarten kid. Really, so bad it’s hilarious. However, don’t worry because he has his own personal battle cry to pump himself up. Say it with me, “Chesuto!”
When Sho was a junior, he’s so small he looked like a chipmunk and his seniors even went further by calling him mame (bean). He also made a mistake by thinking his name in Latin is spelled SHOW, hence become the name of his solo concert. Now. after he has grown up, he’s still being teased a lot about his slopping shoulders, wide forehead, and his horrible taste in fashion, such as wearing double hoodies and fake jeans (you know, jeans-painted pants with rubber waist?).
All of the failures above are exactly the reasons that make him more endearing. When he looks refined and old-fashioned, he’s actually not stoic and has many humorous sides, as well as 101 funny expressions. Sho also acts as the clown in Arashi. When they have rehearsals and need to be serious, he will imitate a muaythai boxer, does his famous swan impersonation or try to grab the members’ attention by stealing glances and appealing them through the mirrors. He laughs so easily at everything, claps his hands in excitement and won’t stop laughing until his stomach hurts. Sho is loved not only because of his many achievements, but also because he’s a really kind and humble man who is able to laugh at himself.
Sho thinks, “At least I don't fail to look maximum cute in this costume”
Videos
Hip Hop Boogie, Sho’s solo from AAA Kokuritsu 08
Compilation of Sakurap
Chibi Sho ‘kanchoing’ Domoto Koichi of Kinki Kids, he’s so ssmaallllll xD
Chibi Sho showing his back, and Sho’s habit to show off his butt has started since he’s young lol
Sho’s jumping rope gestures, Sho’s doing his number 1 talent!
Red’s love confession to Pink, one of Sho’s epic fails
Aiba Masaki
Aiba is a really special person. You will only have one Aiba in this world. Aiba is Arashi’s sunshine. He is always happy, high-spirited, and when the other members feel exhausted, he will motivate and cheer them up (or maybe it’s just because his tension is really contagious). Aiba is like one ball of energy, always bouncing and jumping around, and he has the wildest imagination ever. Aiba is the one who asked for Arashi's very first TV show back then and he is the brain of all Arashi’s stupid yet hilarious activities.
Examples from his experiments:
- What happens if you drink beer, water and break eggs at zero gravity?
- Can you walk on plastic wrap?
- Can you sail a giant origami boat?
- What happens if you put rose, toothpaste, egg, and noodles into liquid nitrogen?
- How many balloons will it take for a man to fly?
- Can you be invisible if you wear mirrors all over your body?
This list hasn’t included all of his food experiments, featuring especially mabo tofu and fish ice creams. What? No, no, Aiba is not stupid. He’s just a natural airhead. You know, he’s rather clumsy, tends to misheard the question, and often forgets his dance steps. But, all of his mistakes just make him more lovable because we know he tries his hardest. Aiba has the energy of a five years old and he’s always earnest in everything he does. He also has a unique nasally anime voice and the most adorable giggle I’ve ever heard. The voice will sound strange if it belongs to someone else, but his voice fits Aiba’s character perfectly!
More about Aiba: he often gets scolded since he will sing even when it's not his turn to sing in concerts; he can't help it since he loves to sing along to the entire song! He loves to read manga but is afraid of the big watery eyes in shoujo manga. He has his own search engine in his head that is called Masaki.com (btw, the 'right' pronunciation is Masaki dottu kommu). He also claims himself to be able to speak English, eeuuhh well it’s the bravery to speak that’s matters :D. He has this ‘naive but not innocent’ image because he has perverted mind that make him giggling like a little girl when he sees banana, radish, and weird shaped mushroom. He also has the habit to ask other members to take a bath with him, making us nearly lost of breath laughing when we hear about what happened inside the bathroom.
Aiba is a regular in Tensai Shimura Daibutsuen, a variety show about animals, where you can see how he interacts with animals, from a cute one like panda to the dangerous one like komodo and crocodiles. Watch him facing the animals with -ahem- unexpected manliness while still looking super adorable. His participation in that show also makes him participate more in planning Arashi’s TV shows in order to make the audiences enjoy the shows better.
Never underestimate Aiba, because he can look mature and sexy when he wants too. It also helps that he is really gorgeous and always looks good in whatever he wears. He actually has high level of self consciousness. When you read his interviews, you’ll realize he’s actually thinking about a lot of things and he is always willing to improve himself. Aiba is truly Arashi’s source of energy and ideas. After all, without Aiba, there won’t be any dorky but happy Arashi like they are now!
Aiba is too excited about this pimp post!
Videos
Aiba’s Letter, Aiba wrote and read a letter to Arashi as his way to say sorry that he has troubled them when he has to be hospitalized after he was identified with pneumothorax when he learned how to play saxophones. Pneumothorax or collapsed lungs is common disease for young, slim, and tall males.
Friendship, Aiba’s adorable solo from TIME concert
Aiba’s 5 greatest fears, a must watch! What animals almost killed Aiba?
Aiba bully tigers, tsk tsk Aiba, you’re not supposed to play tigers around like that!
Ninomiya Kazunari
First thing you should learn about Nino, don’t be fooled by his appearance. While he may look like a simple and kind boy-next-door, Nino is a complex mystery, Furthermore, he’s also a devil in disguise. And an immortal one at that, since he looks the same now and 10 years ago.
While he claims that he doesn’t like to talk, he’s really talkative and his conversation skills bring out the best of the members. Nino is Arashi’s puppet master because he controls Arashi’s conversations. It’s impossible to think of him without thinking of the word ‘brat’ since he is a prankster, who even get his own segment ‘Ni no Arashi’ in their old TV show. The word ‘personal space’ doesn’t mean anything to him since he could get really ‘touchy’ with other people. Besides that, Nino is also a cheapskate. He even states proudly that he never goes out with his juniors and when he goes out with his seniors, he will ask them to treat him and ask for taxi fares.
His 17 years old appearance and 12 years old behavior are the best camouflage to his abilities. Nino is like the guy in your class who never listens to the teachers but will still get a perfect score. He often brags while has this ‘yes I know I’m awesome’ looks but if he is praised, he will hide his face from embarrassment with his hamburger hands.
Nino is a talented actor who has got several awards, but the most notable achievements is when his acting was acknowledged by Hollywood when he acted in Clint Eastwood’s movie, Letters from Iwo Jima. He’s the only one in Arashi who can compose songs, write lyrics, and capable of playing many musical instruments such as guitar, bass, drums, piano, and harmonica. Two of his most favorite things in the world are his DS which he plays whenever he can, and magic. He is also a great magician, to the point that he could still make a living if the company goes bankrupt.
Nino is full of contradictions, whatever images you may have for him, he’ll easily dodges them all away. Despite being a brat, he is actually quite deep and will continue to surprise you in every interviews. Still, be careful because he’s most likely to do one of the things below:
1. Exaggerating his answers (ex. I listen to music 48 hours a day)
2. Lie. And you’ll never know when he does it (in fact, Nino lied to Matsujun when they first met, and Jun believed him for half a year)
3. Go with the flow (just answer the way the reporter hoped him too)
4. Contradicting his answers (‘I don’t really like singing’ while humming all the time throughout the interview)
5. Playing around with his answers
Something that was upsetting recently: My aerobic-class-going mom isn’t getting any thinner
Something that’s been on your mind recently: My aerobic-class-going mom isn’t getting any thinner
Something that you’re wondering about: When is my aerobic-class-going mom going to get any thinner?
6. When he feels like answering, he will talk continuously and distract you with his perspective of things without really answering the questions
Jun called Nino ‘a house of mirrors’, which is really true. You’ll be lost inside him and when you think you have understood him, he’ll do something new to make you more confuse. Of all things he is capable of, Nino’s most special talent is to make everyone forgive him for whatever rude behaviors he does. I dislike him at first but he’s grown on me and he’ll definitely grow on you too.
Nino knows how awesome he is
Videos
Nino’s letter, watch how the others have grown up while Nino...just stay the same xD
Baseball, Nino vs Domoto Tsuyoshi of Kinki Kids
Niji, Nino + piano = beautiful performance
Gimmick Game, Nino’s rare slutty sexy perfomance
Nada Sou Sou, Nino’s singing for grandparents in Mago-Mago Arashi show
Nino’s exclusive interview, Jounetsu Tairiku followed him during shooting, Berlin Film Festival, and concert preparation
Matsumoto Jun
Matsujun is the one who is responsible of luring large-portion of fans into Arashi, earning him the nickname Jun-Bait. This happens because Jun is famous for his roles in manga-based dramas, such as Gokusen, Kimi wa Petto, Hanadan, and Bambino. Another reason is because of his thick eyebrows ‘koi’ face -- means he has a really strong-feature face that makes him recognizable from the end of the street no matter how hard he tries to hide himself. Jun is considered as an elite in Johnny’s because he got in without having to go through an audition. Well, you can’t blame old man Johnny, Jun was such a pretty kid.
Other thing you should know about Jun is that he is fabulous! He’s considered as the most fashionable within Arashi, always spends his money to buy clothes and has a huge collection of accessories, which come in two colors, gold and silver, to match his clothes. Next, you don’t have to worry if you don’t like his current hairstyle since he changes his hairstyles really often, at least 6 times a year xD. He has a really special way of dancing too, a mollusk-like to be precise. As of his singing -ahem- let’s just say he tries his best.
Jun’s other nickname is DoS Banchou (Do: Extreme, S: Sadistic, Banchou: Leader), which means he enjoys other people’s sufferings. He often scolds his team-mates and he loves to laugh at other people’s fails. You can see that he’s having the time of his life whenever he laughs like that, and of course we can forgive him because he has the cutest widest smile ever.
However, Jun is actually not a mean person at all, because he’s a really nice person. He may look distant but he cares about Arashi the most. Deep down, he’s just a dork. He even loves to tease his team-mate by talking to them with Kansai dialect. The dialect came out so bad, but they let him to do it because he looks so happy doing it. He loves Harry Potter and mangas and he used to idolize Sho when he’s little. Furthermore, Jun is also a big fan of Michael Jackson, they even has the same initials! Aawwww...see I told you he’s a dork. He’s just too shy to show it; he often tries too hard to be cool. He had some rebellious stages in the past, but don’t worry, he just had longer and more awkward puberty than most people have. It’s all good now and you can see him all smiling and happy! Have I told you that he has the prettiest widest smile ever? Oh and he’s a total camwhore. He’ll always notices where the camera is and immediately makes love to it.
Jun is also known as a perfectionist, in whatever he does, he’ll always put his best efforts. He’s very selective in choosing his roles and he is often influenced by his characters because he gets to deep into his roles. But well, maybe it’s not always means bad because after he acted in Bambino, Jun now loves to cook pasta! Next, do you enjoy any Johnny’s concerts? Then you should thank Jun because he comes out with many ideas for concerts, including the famous Johnny’s moving stages and MJ walk -- the wire they use to lift up their bodies. Jun acts as concert leader in Arashi, and his tension is always at the fullest in concerts!
Jun may look strict but someone got to do that in Arashi, and the other members appreciate his hardworks. He doesn't talk too much about his feelings but you can see that he looks the happiest when he’s together with Arashi. After all, Jun will only be stupid when he’s with Arashi!
Jun says, “Hi…” d’aawwww
Videos
La Familia, Jun’s song for Arashi
M no Arashi, Jun was bullied by Arashi!
Arashi tricked Degawa, Jun shown us his DoS acting skill
Jun vs Jin, classic battle between these senior-junior
Jun hiding a clock in..., well you have to watch to find out!
Don’t make Jun angry, Jun with kids = adorable
Now, about the group..and the key to any pimp post, picspams and more links!
One advantage for being an Arashi fan is that they have so many activities, making us never lose a topic to talk about! They can do every aspects of entertainment business. They do acting, news casting, comedies, variety shows, radio shows, stupid experiences, and amazing concerts, all splendidly.
Each of the members actually has a really strong character and personality, but the number one reason for their popularities is their friendship. When they’re together you can see that they go along very well with each other. As long as they’re together they can do ANYTHING, even stuffs stupid people won’t do. After becoming this popular...they still doing craps!! They’re not perfect and they’re not afraid to look stupid or crazy.
They also know no shame. Air guitar impersonation, dressing as superheroes, wearing nipple t-shirt, putting stocking to their heads, creating chaos in train station...you named it, they have done it! And we can’t forget how much they love to have pink talks. After all, is there any other idols who talks about how they lend porn to one another, how curious are they about the growth of women’s breast, played boobs volleyball, and fought about who is the most perverted one among them?
They’re also the only artists who always do round-table-talk in their interviews. Because their conversations are already interesting enough, reporters usually just give the camcorder to Sho and leave them to talk about a certain topic while Ohno, who doesn’t talk much, usually is in charge to put a conclusion at the end of their interviews.
I will quote an article here, “Other idols tend to show off, but Arashi, even if they fail, just take things in their stride and laugh it off, and this make the fans think they are just being themselves.”
When someone is in a spotlight, the other members will step back and cheer for him...they support and concern about each others’ activities. Many magazines have written that each member has their own achievements so there’s no one in Arashi who become an underdog. Ohno has his art exhibition, Sho has newscasting, Aiba has Tensai Shimura Daibutsuen show, Nino has his Hollywood venture, Jun has Hanadan. But, whatever they do, they’ve never forgotten that they’re a part of Arashi.
Next, we can’t forget their disgusting amazing happy song. All of their concerts are really enjoyable, full of entertainment, and they always make sure that the audiences can see them clearly no matter where they sit. They may not have stellar voice...but there’s something addictive about their songs! They just make you feel like you can do everything in this world...that life doesn’t have to be so stressful and we have to look at it like the way they look at it...full of color and happiness.
That’s exactly what Arashi is. They are always so happy they make us feel happy too just by looking at them! Although they’re big celebrities, they always look natural, humble, and they’ve never lost a topic to talk about or things to do together. The best part of them is, you can put them in any kind of pairings and there won’t be any sense of awkwardness! Yama pair? Sakuraiba? Sakumiya? Sakumoto? Ohba? Aimiya? AiJun? Ohmiya? Matsumiya? Juntoshi? Any pairing will totally works since Arashi is a big coughorgycough group.
Videos
Aiba Sugoroku, Aiba’s boardgame with many kinds of punishment. I lost words to describe these guys LOL
Beatbox, Arashi’s sounds compilations
Are you a dog or cat person? a golden episode from Arashi no Shukudai-kun where they have to talk about a certain topic in a certain style for about 80 sec
Arashi in Haunted House part 1, see how Sho suddenly had athletic abilities when he ran away from ‘ghosts’ and left Aiba behind! part 2, Nino used doll as his talisman, Jun tried to look cool, while Riidaa shown no reaction xD
Air guitar, the legendary Arashi performance
Paper boat, the beginning of Arashi’s boat experiments and Sho as captain failboat
Arashi in blindfold, Arashi performed their debut song, A.ra.shi without ability to see and hear
Yurase Ima Wo and Troublemaker performance, watch how they include Sho who was in Canada to report Winter Olympic
Arashi waking up in Hawaii, young Jun waking up his team-mates!
Arashi Cosplay, one of their many many cosplays
Oppai Bakuhatsu Game, Ayase Haruka came to promote her movie ‘Oppai (Boobs) Volleyball’ and we know Arashi will try to mention boobies as many time as they can. One of the best episodes of their TV shows!
Sleeping Bag Race Game, one of Aiba’s game..cute Arashi looks like red caterpillars in sleeping bags!
PVs
Happiness, my favorite PV! Goofy Arashi on cracks!
We can Make it!, play this on rerun and you’ll feel you can achieve anything in life!
Kitto Daijobu, they’re dancing in rainbows! And they look totally happy doing it xD
Sakura Sake, Arashi encouraged you to study! I wish I have teachers like them
Truth, more mature side of Arashi
Believe, Best Song of 2009
Concerts
Warning: after you see their concerts in Kokuritsu, all other venues, including the famous Tokyo Dome, will suddenly look small
Love So Sweet, opening song of AAA 2008
La Tormenta 2004, Arashi’s self introduction song
Yes? No?, opening song from One Concert
Step and Go, sashay-jumping Arashi
Gorimuchuu, Arashi playing around with water poodles on stage
Still, in my opinion, the best Sakurap performance
Fight Song, Punishment Game!!!
Be with you, slow song after their speeches in TIME concert (with crying Aiba)
Carnival Night, super-festive song to pump the audiences’ spirit up!
Love Situation, moving stage and Juntoshi‘s cartwheels
Songs, their other songs are good too! (Password: b@gy0)
A.ra.shi, their debut song
Do my Best
Wish
Oh yeah!
Ichioku no Hoshi
Hanasanai
5x10, their 10th anniversary song for fans
Must-watched Arashi’s dramas/movies
If you’re a fan, of course you will religiously watch all of their dramas, but even to a non-fan, these dramas are some of really good Japanese dramas. You can find most of the links in asian_doramas or jdramas
Hana Yori Dango:
The meritorious one to pull a bunch of fangirls into Arashi. Jun acted as Domyouji, a rude and spoilt rich boy who fell in love to Tsukushi, a stubborn and poor girl played by Inoue Mao. Jun’s and Mao’s chemistry will always be in fans’ heart alongside Domyouji’s perm. To be continued to Hanadan Returns and Hanadan Final
Kimi wa Petto:
Matsujun acted as a pet of a woman who acted with Tom Cruise in Last Samurai, Koyuki. There’re cute bath scenes and hot kissing scenes which happen rarely in Japanese dramas. Need I say more?
Maou:
Japanese version of Mawang. Ohno showed us his acting skill and serious side when he played as a lawyer who wants to get revenge to a police played by Ikuta Toma
Ao no Honoo:
Nino acted as a high school boy who wants to kill his ex-stepfather. Rather creepy but really good. Anyway, who can resist naked Nino in an aquarium?
Kisarazu’s Cat Eyes:
Sho acted as Bambi, one of the members of thief group Kisarazu’s Cat Eyes led by Bussan, played by Okada Junichi. The story basically about crazy people doing crazy stuffs in crazy ways before Bussan dies from his cancer. Totally hilarious. To be continued to two movies: KCE: Nihon Series and KCE: World Series
Stand Up:
Nino, Shun Oguri, Yamapi, and Narimaya Hiroki acted as high school boys who want to lose their virginities as soon as possible. Old drama but totally a must watch because it can be considered as the starting point of all the main actors before they become popular
Marathon:
one of the Nino’s most brilliant performance in which he acted as an autistic boy who wants to participate in marathons
Yamada Taro Monogatari:
Japanese version of Poor Prince. Nino as a -cough- innocent poor high school boy and Sho acted as his classmate who silently watches and controls Nino. So totally reversed from real life and that’s why it’s awesome. Plus, Sho looks totally hot in black and oh the gay...
Letters from Iwo Jima:
Nino acted alongside Ken Watanabe in an Oscar-class movie directed by Clint Eastwood. Must. Watch.
Pikanchi and Pikanchi Double:
Arashi’s first and second movie together, full of Arashi cracks and hidden messages. -ahem- HBIC Nino, pretty Aiba and dorky Jun? Though not so much of gangster Sho and horny Ohno. Based on idea of Inocchi from V6
Useful links:
Arashidex: more complete infos of arashi, with reviews of their dramas, guides to their epic moments, tv shows list etc, with links of where you can download it.
arashi_on and a_ra_shi : main arashi communities in LJ.
arashicrackaday: your daily dose of arashi cracks, they made the fandom a lot more awesome!
PV parodies: this awesome girl screencapped and made fun of Arashi PVs, totally a must read, all of her entries are fall-off-your-chair hilarious
arashi_on have gathered some useful links including list to arashi-related communities, subbed videos, guides to their tv shows episodes, and list of their translated interviews here
You can download arashi songs here or here
If you’re interested, I also gather more links at my journal here
Sources: arashi_on, arashi-related-aday communities, jesychan, sng, arashi-related groups in crunchyroll, junonline/shobeat, arashicrackaday, arashiland pv series, theproudpenguin , mayey87, aramatheydidnt’s ffa, ninevolt_doll’s post, rei @ bump on the asphalt
Special thanks to racchhhh who helped me find some videos, elitejean who made the sparkling pimp post image at the very top, and my friend/beta, m3_ya *kidnap Toma and send him to your house*
Tell me if one of the links is not working, although Arashi’s videos are taken down from YouTube real quick (I mean it, because even as I’m working on this pimp post, some of the videos that I want to use have been taken down) and not all subbers allow reuploading links. PM me if you find uploaded video/pic/gif/link that belongs to you and want me to take it down. Although it went error every time I tried to edit it and they all look so perfect there. No?
Do you like it? Help me pimp it! It’s Arashi-approved!
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If you’re in Asian fandom, you must have heard of Arashi, but who are they? Do you want to know more about them? Are you a newcomer in this fandom and confused about where you should start? Fear not because this pimp post will introduce you further of an idol group which is so popular in Japan that their popularity is labeled as a social phenomenon.
The facts first, Arashi (嵐) which means Storm, is a group consist of five boys men under Johnny’s Entertainment agency. They debuted in Hawaii in 1999 carrying the mission to storm the world. Well, 10 years later, they haven't been successful in storming the world yet but they surely have stormed thousands of fangirls’ hearts with their awesomeness.
They didn’t have it easy at first, they had tough experiences when they were not popular enough but they have never given up and they have never complained. They’re slow risers but now they have broken so many new records. So, what exactly makes them different? Why are they able to monopolize so many awards in Oricon Charts? Furthermore, they’re also the first artist to put 4 of their singles in Oricon Top 5, first to monopolize the top 2 single spots for two years running, first in 21 years to monopolize top 3 singles, first to monopolize Best Single, Best DVD, Best Album, and Top Sales categories in a year, and the first artist who performed for 3 days straight in Kokuritsu Olympic Stadion, with more than 76.000 audiences each day. Surprisingly, the answers are not because they’re cool, or because they’re handsome, or because they have amazing singing and dancing abilities. They are the living proof that you can become big in the entertainment business just by being yourselves.
Now...who are they? First, let me introduce you to the members. Let’s start from the oldest to the youngest, shall we?
Ohno Satoshi
Ohno was appointed as the leader (or as Japanese say it, ‘Riidaa’) when he won a rock-paper-scissors game forced on them by one of their seniors. The title is actually just a nickname since he created a new way of leading his group... by not leading them at all xD. It doesn’t mean that Ohno is useless, he’s doing his job but he doesn’t show it off to everyone. In fact, Matsujun always says how Arashi could become as they are today because Ohno never forces them to do things in his way.
Now, how do we get started to know Ohno? It’s a big wonder how someone with a personality like Ohno’s can hit big in the entertainment business. It has been getting better lately, but when you watch videos from a few years back, you’ll notice how spaced-out he was. All the time, when he talks -- and even at concerts -- you can see that his mind was wandering elsewhere. He’s the quietest member in Arashi and one time he even forgot to speak in their TV show, so now the members have to make sure that he talks during their shows and interviews. Of course, Ohno has an excuse to explain why he doesn’t talk much, which is to save his energy!
With this character, he’s supposed to be the underdog of the group but somehow it never happens since the other members love and shower him with attentions. Yes, all of them love him so much, it feels like he’s a yummy doughnut and everyone look at him with their forks ready. Who can blame them? Just look at him. Speaking of doughnut, Ohno is not picky with food. He can eat everything and will always comment with his trademark “Umai!” (delicious). Oh, by everything, I mean everything.
Ohno is one of the nicest men you’ll ever know. During these 10 years, he has never been angry. He’s also nice to fans, always tries to spot fans’ uchiwas in concerts, communicates and does things he is asked to do. He’s very close to his family, and for 28 years, he didn't buy his own clothes because his mother bought them for him. He doesn't even buy his underwear because he will receive them as presents. All the members have recognized the brand and color too well and will avoid buying it since it’s ‘Riidaa’s underwear’.
Before you think that Ohno is not a good idol, you have to know he is a man of many talents. He’s the best dancer and singer in Arashi, a great actor who has acted in many stage plays before finally acted in television dramas, as well as a true Johnny’s idol because he can do back flip and cartwheel really well. Furthermore, he’s a great artist who has held his own exhibition, FREESTYLE, where he shown many kinds of works such as graffiti, clay dolls, and drawings. When he is serious about something, he could really be excellent in that area.
While we’re on the topic of things he loves, we have to mention his obsession: fishing! He loves fishing so much that he will go every time he’s free and his record of fishing is 25-hours straight! Sadly, the higher-ups in the company don’t like it since Ohno’s skin is getting darker and darker. He was even scolded by makeup artists because they couldn’t find foundations to match his skin color. Therefore, Ohno’s resolution for 2010 is skin whitening!
Ohno is a truly simple-minded and humble person. He loves onsen, he wants to open a bakery shop, and he wants to build a house with his own hands. He may not speak much, but he always watches and takes care of his members in his own way. Ohno has a truly remarkable personality and a big heart, and as Aiba once said, he doesn’t have to change because Riidaa is the best the way he is!
Ohno doesn’t really care that I’m trying to promote him here
Videos
Rain and Take Me Faraway, Ohno’s solos, watch out for his moves
Kumori nochi Kaisei, Ohno’s solo PV
Riidaa is unbelievable, everyone complained about Ohno behind his back
The stressful life of Ohno Satoshi, an ongoing story of Ohno's wristband, Ohno's mom, and Ohno's friend, Matsujun.
Sammi, Ohno’s transexual personality when he’s drunk
Recognizing songs, Ohno’s battle to guess Arashi songs
Sakurai Sho
Sho acts as the rapper in Arashi and he’s known for his nickname ‘Keio Boy’ that he got for graduating from one of the Ivy League-universities in Japan, Keio. When Sho was a junior, he’s the representative of all the rules and even now he’s very much respected by his juniors -- who call him ‘Sakurai-sama’, while his seniors claimed than his hard working behaviors should be stopped.
Sho is famous for making three breakthroughs in Johnny’s: writing his own rap lyrics -- called Sakurap by fans, created ‘go to college’ boom within Johnny’s, and becomes a newscaster. Yes, a newscaster in a boyband. He is smart, diligent, and really organized. Sho reads three newspapers a day, and as the most well-versed member, acts as the unofficial MC of the group. Sho is also the one who has the most charisma during live performances and concerts, oh and the sexiest too.
Seems to perfect to be true? Just wait, because Sho has one weakness. He fails. A lot. This makes him entitled to another nickname: Captain Failboat. He may look as the manliest within Arashi, yet he has no athletic reflexes at all. While his brain understands, his body is so stiff that it can’t move well in any sports (expect soccer, but we don’t know if it’s true since Sho rarely plays soccer). His air muscles work for nothing as he even lost to Nino the toothpick. He’s also one of a few Johnny’s who can’t do a backflip, claiming himself as the last of the bottom in the matter of athletic abilities. His failures don’t stop there since Sho is also afraid of ghosts, heights, and well, almost everything, in which he will shout “Mecha kowai, mecha kowai!!" (Super scary, super scary!) While he considers himself as an artist, Sho sucks at drawings too. His drawing ability is the same with a kindergarten kid. Really, so bad it’s hilarious. However, don’t worry because he has his own personal battle cry to pump himself up. Say it with me, “Chesuto!”
When Sho was a junior, he’s so small he looked like a chipmunk and his seniors even went further by calling him mame (bean). He also made a mistake by thinking his name in Latin is spelled SHOW, hence become the name of his solo concert. Now. after he has grown up, he’s still being teased a lot about his slopping shoulders, wide forehead, and his horrible taste in fashion, such as wearing double hoodies and fake jeans (you know, jeans-painted pants with rubber waist?).
All of the failures above are exactly the reasons that make him more endearing. When he looks refined and old-fashioned, he’s actually not stoic and has many humorous sides, as well as 101 funny expressions. Sho also acts as the clown in Arashi. When they have rehearsals and need to be serious, he will imitate a muaythai boxer, does his famous swan impersonation or try to grab the members’ attention by stealing glances and appealing them through the mirrors. He laughs so easily at everything, claps his hands in excitement and won’t stop laughing until his stomach hurts. Sho is loved not only because of his many achievements, but also because he’s a really kind and humble man who is able to laugh at himself.
Sho thinks, “At least I don't fail to look maximum cute in this costume”
Videos
Hip Hop Boogie, Sho’s solo from AAA Kokuritsu 08
Compilation of Sakurap
Chibi Sho ‘kanchoing’ Domoto Koichi of Kinki Kids, he’s so ssmaallllll xD
Chibi Sho showing his back, and Sho’s habit to show off his butt has started since he’s young lol
Sho’s jumping rope gestures, Sho’s doing his number 1 talent!
Red’s love confession to Pink, one of Sho’s epic fails
Aiba Masaki
Aiba is a really special person. You will only have one Aiba in this world. Aiba is Arashi’s sunshine. He is always happy, high-spirited, and when the other members feel exhausted, he will motivate and cheer them up (or maybe it’s just because his tension is really contagious). Aiba is like one ball of energy, always bouncing and jumping around, and he has the wildest imagination ever. Aiba is the one who asked for Arashi's very first TV show back then and he is the brain of all Arashi’s stupid yet hilarious activities.
Examples from his experiments:
- What happens if you drink beer, water and break eggs at zero gravity?
- Can you walk on plastic wrap?
- Can you sail a giant origami boat?
- What happens if you put rose, toothpaste, egg, and noodles into liquid nitrogen?
- How many balloons will it take for a man to fly?
- Can you be invisible if you wear mirrors all over your body?
This list hasn’t included all of his food experiments, featuring especially mabo tofu and fish ice creams. What? No, no, Aiba is not stupid. He’s just a natural airhead. You know, he’s rather clumsy, tends to misheard the question, and often forgets his dance steps. But, all of his mistakes just make him more lovable because we know he tries his hardest. Aiba has the energy of a five years old and he’s always earnest in everything he does. He also has a unique nasally anime voice and the most adorable giggle I’ve ever heard. The voice will sound strange if it belongs to someone else, but his voice fits Aiba’s character perfectly!
More about Aiba: he often gets scolded since he will sing even when it's not his turn to sing in concerts; he can't help it since he loves to sing along to the entire song! He loves to read manga but is afraid of the big watery eyes in shoujo manga. He has his own search engine in his head that is called Masaki.com (btw, the 'right' pronunciation is Masaki dottu kommu). He also claims himself to be able to speak English, eeuuhh well it’s the bravery to speak that’s matters :D. He has this ‘naive but not innocent’ image because he has perverted mind that make him giggling like a little girl when he sees banana, radish, and weird shaped mushroom. He also has the habit to ask other members to take a bath with him, making us nearly lost of breath laughing when we hear about what happened inside the bathroom.
Aiba is a regular in Tensai Shimura Daibutsuen, a variety show about animals, where you can see how he interacts with animals, from a cute one like panda to the dangerous one like komodo and crocodiles. Watch him facing the animals with -ahem- unexpected manliness while still looking super adorable. His participation in that show also makes him participate more in planning Arashi’s TV shows in order to make the audiences enjoy the shows better.
Never underestimate Aiba, because he can look mature and sexy when he wants too. It also helps that he is really gorgeous and always looks good in whatever he wears. He actually has high level of self consciousness. When you read his interviews, you’ll realize he’s actually thinking about a lot of things and he is always willing to improve himself. Aiba is truly Arashi’s source of energy and ideas. After all, without Aiba, there won’t be any dorky but happy Arashi like they are now!
Aiba is too excited about this pimp post!
Videos
Aiba’s Letter, Aiba wrote and read a letter to Arashi as his way to say sorry that he has troubled them when he has to be hospitalized after he was identified with pneumothorax when he learned how to play saxophones. Pneumothorax or collapsed lungs is common disease for young, slim, and tall males.
Friendship, Aiba’s adorable solo from TIME concert
Aiba’s 5 greatest fears, a must watch! What animals almost killed Aiba?
Aiba bully tigers, tsk tsk Aiba, you’re not supposed to play tigers around like that!
Ninomiya Kazunari
First thing you should learn about Nino, don’t be fooled by his appearance. While he may look like a simple and kind boy-next-door, Nino is a complex mystery, Furthermore, he’s also a devil in disguise. And an immortal one at that, since he looks the same now and 10 years ago.
While he claims that he doesn’t like to talk, he’s really talkative and his conversation skills bring out the best of the members. Nino is Arashi’s puppet master because he controls Arashi’s conversations. It’s impossible to think of him without thinking of the word ‘brat’ since he is a prankster, who even get his own segment ‘Ni no Arashi’ in their old TV show. The word ‘personal space’ doesn’t mean anything to him since he could get really ‘touchy’ with other people. Besides that, Nino is also a cheapskate. He even states proudly that he never goes out with his juniors and when he goes out with his seniors, he will ask them to treat him and ask for taxi fares.
His 17 years old appearance and 12 years old behavior are the best camouflage to his abilities. Nino is like the guy in your class who never listens to the teachers but will still get a perfect score. He often brags while has this ‘yes I know I’m awesome’ looks but if he is praised, he will hide his face from embarrassment with his hamburger hands.
Nino is a talented actor who has got several awards, but the most notable achievements is when his acting was acknowledged by Hollywood when he acted in Clint Eastwood’s movie, Letters from Iwo Jima. He’s the only one in Arashi who can compose songs, write lyrics, and capable of playing many musical instruments such as guitar, bass, drums, piano, and harmonica. Two of his most favorite things in the world are his DS which he plays whenever he can, and magic. He is also a great magician, to the point that he could still make a living if the company goes bankrupt.
Nino is full of contradictions, whatever images you may have for him, he’ll easily dodges them all away. Despite being a brat, he is actually quite deep and will continue to surprise you in every interviews. Still, be careful because he’s most likely to do one of the things below:
1. Exaggerating his answers (ex. I listen to music 48 hours a day)
2. Lie. And you’ll never know when he does it (in fact, Nino lied to Matsujun when they first met, and Jun believed him for half a year)
3. Go with the flow (just answer the way the reporter hoped him too)
4. Contradicting his answers (‘I don’t really like singing’ while humming all the time throughout the interview)
5. Playing around with his answers
Something that was upsetting recently: My aerobic-class-going mom isn’t getting any thinner
Something that’s been on your mind recently: My aerobic-class-going mom isn’t getting any thinner
Something that you’re wondering about: When is my aerobic-class-going mom going to get any thinner?
6. When he feels like answering, he will talk continuously and distract you with his perspective of things without really answering the questions
Jun called Nino ‘a house of mirrors’, which is really true. You’ll be lost inside him and when you think you have understood him, he’ll do something new to make you more confuse. Of all things he is capable of, Nino’s most special talent is to make everyone forgive him for whatever rude behaviors he does. I dislike him at first but he’s grown on me and he’ll definitely grow on you too.
Nino knows how awesome he is
Videos
Nino’s letter, watch how the others have grown up while Nino...just stay the same xD
Baseball, Nino vs Domoto Tsuyoshi of Kinki Kids
Niji, Nino + piano = beautiful performance
Gimmick Game, Nino’s rare slutty sexy perfomance
Nada Sou Sou, Nino’s singing for grandparents in Mago-Mago Arashi show
Nino’s exclusive interview, Jounetsu Tairiku followed him during shooting, Berlin Film Festival, and concert preparation
Matsumoto Jun
Matsujun is the one who is responsible of luring large-portion of fans into Arashi, earning him the nickname Jun-Bait. This happens because Jun is famous for his roles in manga-based dramas, such as Gokusen, Kimi wa Petto, Hanadan, and Bambino. Another reason is because of his thick eyebrows ‘koi’ face -- means he has a really strong-feature face that makes him recognizable from the end of the street no matter how hard he tries to hide himself. Jun is considered as an elite in Johnny’s because he got in without having to go through an audition. Well, you can’t blame old man Johnny, Jun was such a pretty kid.
Other thing you should know about Jun is that he is fabulous! He’s considered as the most fashionable within Arashi, always spends his money to buy clothes and has a huge collection of accessories, which come in two colors, gold and silver, to match his clothes. Next, you don’t have to worry if you don’t like his current hairstyle since he changes his hairstyles really often, at least 6 times a year xD. He has a really special way of dancing too, a mollusk-like to be precise. As of his singing -ahem- let’s just say he tries his best.
Jun’s other nickname is DoS Banchou (Do: Extreme, S: Sadistic, Banchou: Leader), which means he enjoys other people’s sufferings. He often scolds his team-mates and he loves to laugh at other people’s fails. You can see that he’s having the time of his life whenever he laughs like that, and of course we can forgive him because he has the cutest widest smile ever.
However, Jun is actually not a mean person at all, because he’s a really nice person. He may look distant but he cares about Arashi the most. Deep down, he’s just a dork. He even loves to tease his team-mate by talking to them with Kansai dialect. The dialect came out so bad, but they let him to do it because he looks so happy doing it. He loves Harry Potter and mangas and he used to idolize Sho when he’s little. Furthermore, Jun is also a big fan of Michael Jackson, they even has the same initials! Aawwww...see I told you he’s a dork. He’s just too shy to show it; he often tries too hard to be cool. He had some rebellious stages in the past, but don’t worry, he just had longer and more awkward puberty than most people have. It’s all good now and you can see him all smiling and happy! Have I told you that he has the prettiest widest smile ever? Oh and he’s a total camwhore. He’ll always notices where the camera is and immediately makes love to it.
Jun is also known as a perfectionist, in whatever he does, he’ll always put his best efforts. He’s very selective in choosing his roles and he is often influenced by his characters because he gets to deep into his roles. But well, maybe it’s not always means bad because after he acted in Bambino, Jun now loves to cook pasta! Next, do you enjoy any Johnny’s concerts? Then you should thank Jun because he comes out with many ideas for concerts, including the famous Johnny’s moving stages and MJ walk -- the wire they use to lift up their bodies. Jun acts as concert leader in Arashi, and his tension is always at the fullest in concerts!
Jun may look strict but someone got to do that in Arashi, and the other members appreciate his hardworks. He doesn't talk too much about his feelings but you can see that he looks the happiest when he’s together with Arashi. After all, Jun will only be stupid when he’s with Arashi!
Jun says, “Hi…” d’aawwww
Videos
La Familia, Jun’s song for Arashi
M no Arashi, Jun was bullied by Arashi!
Arashi tricked Degawa, Jun shown us his DoS acting skill
Jun vs Jin, classic battle between these senior-junior
Jun hiding a clock in..., well you have to watch to find out!
Don’t make Jun angry, Jun with kids = adorable
Now, about the group..and the key to any pimp post, picspams and more links!
One advantage for being an Arashi fan is that they have so many activities, making us never lose a topic to talk about! They can do every aspects of entertainment business. They do acting, news casting, comedies, variety shows, radio shows, stupid experiences, and amazing concerts, all splendidly.
Each of the members actually has a really strong character and personality, but the number one reason for their popularities is their friendship. When they’re together you can see that they go along very well with each other. As long as they’re together they can do ANYTHING, even stuffs stupid people won’t do. After becoming this popular...they still doing craps!! They’re not perfect and they’re not afraid to look stupid or crazy.
They also know no shame. Air guitar impersonation, dressing as superheroes, wearing nipple t-shirt, putting stocking to their heads, creating chaos in train station...you named it, they have done it! And we can’t forget how much they love to have pink talks. After all, is there any other idols who talks about how they lend porn to one another, how curious are they about the growth of women’s breast, played boobs volleyball, and fought about who is the most perverted one among them?
They’re also the only artists who always do round-table-talk in their interviews. Because their conversations are already interesting enough, reporters usually just give the camcorder to Sho and leave them to talk about a certain topic while Ohno, who doesn’t talk much, usually is in charge to put a conclusion at the end of their interviews.
I will quote an article here, “Other idols tend to show off, but Arashi, even if they fail, just take things in their stride and laugh it off, and this make the fans think they are just being themselves.”
When someone is in a spotlight, the other members will step back and cheer for him...they support and concern about each others’ activities. Many magazines have written that each member has their own achievements so there’s no one in Arashi who become an underdog. Ohno has his art exhibition, Sho has newscasting, Aiba has Tensai Shimura Daibutsuen show, Nino has his Hollywood venture, Jun has Hanadan. But, whatever they do, they’ve never forgotten that they’re a part of Arashi.
Next, we can’t forget their disgusting amazing happy song. All of their concerts are really enjoyable, full of entertainment, and they always make sure that the audiences can see them clearly no matter where they sit. They may not have stellar voice...but there’s something addictive about their songs! They just make you feel like you can do everything in this world...that life doesn’t have to be so stressful and we have to look at it like the way they look at it...full of color and happiness.
That’s exactly what Arashi is. They are always so happy they make us feel happy too just by looking at them! Although they’re big celebrities, they always look natural, humble, and they’ve never lost a topic to talk about or things to do together. The best part of them is, you can put them in any kind of pairings and there won’t be any sense of awkwardness! Yama pair? Sakuraiba? Sakumiya? Sakumoto? Ohba? Aimiya? AiJun? Ohmiya? Matsumiya? Juntoshi? Any pairing will totally works since Arashi is a big coughorgycough group.
Videos
Aiba Sugoroku, Aiba’s boardgame with many kinds of punishment. I lost words to describe these guys LOL
Beatbox, Arashi’s sounds compilations
Are you a dog or cat person? a golden episode from Arashi no Shukudai-kun where they have to talk about a certain topic in a certain style for about 80 sec
Arashi in Haunted House part 1, see how Sho suddenly had athletic abilities when he ran away from ‘ghosts’ and left Aiba behind! part 2, Nino used doll as his talisman, Jun tried to look cool, while Riidaa shown no reaction xD
Air guitar, the legendary Arashi performance
Paper boat, the beginning of Arashi’s boat experiments and Sho as captain failboat
Arashi in blindfold, Arashi performed their debut song, A.ra.shi without ability to see and hear
Yurase Ima Wo and Troublemaker performance, watch how they include Sho who was in Canada to report Winter Olympic
Arashi waking up in Hawaii, young Jun waking up his team-mates!
Arashi Cosplay, one of their many many cosplays
Oppai Bakuhatsu Game, Ayase Haruka came to promote her movie ‘Oppai (Boobs) Volleyball’ and we know Arashi will try to mention boobies as many time as they can. One of the best episodes of their TV shows!
Sleeping Bag Race Game, one of Aiba’s game..cute Arashi looks like red caterpillars in sleeping bags!
PVs
Happiness, my favorite PV! Goofy Arashi on cracks!
We can Make it!, play this on rerun and you’ll feel you can achieve anything in life!
Kitto Daijobu, they’re dancing in rainbows! And they look totally happy doing it xD
Sakura Sake, Arashi encouraged you to study! I wish I have teachers like them
Truth, more mature side of Arashi
Believe, Best Song of 2009
Concerts
Warning: after you see their concerts in Kokuritsu, all other venues, including the famous Tokyo Dome, will suddenly look small
Love So Sweet, opening song of AAA 2008
La Tormenta 2004, Arashi’s self introduction song
Yes? No?, opening song from One Concert
Step and Go, sashay-jumping Arashi
Gorimuchuu, Arashi playing around with water poodles on stage
Still, in my opinion, the best Sakurap performance
Fight Song, Punishment Game!!!
Be with you, slow song after their speeches in TIME concert (with crying Aiba)
Carnival Night, super-festive song to pump the audiences’ spirit up!
Love Situation, moving stage and Juntoshi‘s cartwheels
Songs, their other songs are good too! (Password: b@gy0)
A.ra.shi, their debut song
Do my Best
Wish
Oh yeah!
Ichioku no Hoshi
Hanasanai
5x10, their 10th anniversary song for fans
Must-watched Arashi’s dramas/movies
If you’re a fan, of course you will religiously watch all of their dramas, but even to a non-fan, these dramas are some of really good Japanese dramas. You can find most of the links in asian_doramas or jdramas
Hana Yori Dango:
The meritorious one to pull a bunch of fangirls into Arashi. Jun acted as Domyouji, a rude and spoilt rich boy who fell in love to Tsukushi, a stubborn and poor girl played by Inoue Mao. Jun’s and Mao’s chemistry will always be in fans’ heart alongside Domyouji’s perm. To be continued to Hanadan Returns and Hanadan Final
Kimi wa Petto:
Matsujun acted as a pet of a woman who acted with Tom Cruise in Last Samurai, Koyuki. There’re cute bath scenes and hot kissing scenes which happen rarely in Japanese dramas. Need I say more?
Maou:
Japanese version of Mawang. Ohno showed us his acting skill and serious side when he played as a lawyer who wants to get revenge to a police played by Ikuta Toma
Ao no Honoo:
Nino acted as a high school boy who wants to kill his ex-stepfather. Rather creepy but really good. Anyway, who can resist naked Nino in an aquarium?
Kisarazu’s Cat Eyes:
Sho acted as Bambi, one of the members of thief group Kisarazu’s Cat Eyes led by Bussan, played by Okada Junichi. The story basically about crazy people doing crazy stuffs in crazy ways before Bussan dies from his cancer. Totally hilarious. To be continued to two movies: KCE: Nihon Series and KCE: World Series
Stand Up:
Nino, Shun Oguri, Yamapi, and Narimaya Hiroki acted as high school boys who want to lose their virginities as soon as possible. Old drama but totally a must watch because it can be considered as the starting point of all the main actors before they become popular
Marathon:
one of the Nino’s most brilliant performance in which he acted as an autistic boy who wants to participate in marathons
Yamada Taro Monogatari:
Japanese version of Poor Prince. Nino as a -cough- innocent poor high school boy and Sho acted as his classmate who silently watches and controls Nino. So totally reversed from real life and that’s why it’s awesome. Plus, Sho looks totally hot in black and oh the gay...
Letters from Iwo Jima:
Nino acted alongside Ken Watanabe in an Oscar-class movie directed by Clint Eastwood. Must. Watch.
Pikanchi and Pikanchi Double:
Arashi’s first and second movie together, full of Arashi cracks and hidden messages. -ahem- HBIC Nino, pretty Aiba and dorky Jun? Though not so much of gangster Sho and horny Ohno. Based on idea of Inocchi from V6
Useful links:
Arashidex: more complete infos of arashi, with reviews of their dramas, guides to their epic moments, tv shows list etc, with links of where you can download it.
arashi_on and a_ra_shi : main arashi communities in LJ.
arashicrackaday: your daily dose of arashi cracks, they made the fandom a lot more awesome!
PV parodies: this awesome girl screencapped and made fun of Arashi PVs, totally a must read, all of her entries are fall-off-your-chair hilarious
arashi_on have gathered some useful links including list to arashi-related communities, subbed videos, guides to their tv shows episodes, and list of their translated interviews here
You can download arashi songs here or here
If you’re interested, I also gather more links at my journal here
Sources: arashi_on, arashi-related-aday communities, jesychan, sng, arashi-related groups in crunchyroll, junonline/shobeat, arashicrackaday, arashiland pv series, theproudpenguin , mayey87, aramatheydidnt’s ffa, ninevolt_doll’s post, rei @ bump on the asphalt
Special thanks to racchhhh who helped me find some videos, elitejean who made the sparkling pimp post image at the very top, and my friend/beta, m3_ya *kidnap Toma and send him to your house*
Tell me if one of the links is not working, although Arashi’s videos are taken down from YouTube real quick (I mean it, because even as I’m working on this pimp post, some of the videos that I want to use have been taken down) and not all subbers allow reuploading links. PM me if you find uploaded video/pic/gif/link that belongs to you and want me to take it down. Although it went error every time I tried to edit it and they all look so perfect there. No?
Do you like it? Help me pimp it! It’s Arashi-approved!
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