Cue Rio Tokyo Supported CNA Insight Production in Japan
I, Rio from Cue Rio Tokyo, worked as the Fixer in Japan for an episode of Channel NewsAsia’s current affairs programme Insight, which explored how the Trump administration’s policies are reshaping the regional balance and contributing to what some analysts describe as a “new world order” in East Asia.
Please watch it here.
The year 2026 has already been marked by rapid geopolitical developments. Following U.S. military actions against Venezuela and Iran, political tensions have intensified globally. In Japan, the February general election resulted in a major victory for the Liberal Democratic Party led by Sanae Takaichi, signaling a new phase in the country’s domestic and foreign policy direction.
Interviewing Experts to Explain Japan’s Position
To help international audiences understand Japan’s position within this evolving global landscape, we conducted interviews with two respected experts:
Tomohiko Taniguchi of the International Security Industry Council
Taisaku Ikeshima, Waseda University
Both provided clear and insightful commentary in English on Japan’s security environment and political trajectory, which was invaluable for a programme aimed at viewers across Asia and beyond.
Voices from Politics, Civil Society, and Industry
In addition to expert analysis, the programme also featured perspectives from individuals directly affected by current political and economic shifts in Japan:
Kana Shindo, a Minato Ward assembly member who holds strong expectations for Prime Minister Takaichi’s leadership
Masashi Ieshima, a hibakusha representing a survivors’ group, who expressed deep concern over discussions surrounding Japan’s potential nuclear armament
Yasuhiro Yamazaki, president of seafood wholesaler Yamaharu, who discussed the impact of Chinese import restrictions on Japan’s fisheries sector
Their contributions helped ground the story in the perspectives of people living and working in Japan today.
Remote Filming in Japan: Acting as Both Fixer and Field Producer
For this production, the CNA producer did not travel to Japan. Instead, filming was conducted locally by me together with a Japanese technical crew from 104 Production, and all footage was delivered remotely to the broadcaster.
In this case, my role extended beyond that of a traditional Fixer. I was responsible not only for research, access, and coordination, but also for:
- preparing and securing interviewees
- conducting interviews on behalf of the overseas production team
- directing B-roll filming on location
In effect, I worked in a hybrid capacity as both Fixer and field producer — an increasingly common model for international productions that cannot send full crews to Japan.
Reliable Remote Production Support in Tokyo
This project demonstrated how remote filming in Japan can be successfully managed with a trusted local Fixer and an experienced technical crew.
The Tokyo-based team at 104 Production provided excellent camera and sound work throughout the shoot, ensuring broadcast-quality footage despite the absence of an on-site international producer.
If you are planning a documentary, news segment, or current affairs programme in Japan but are unable to travel with your full crew, Cue Rio Tokyo can provide complete local production support — from research and access to filming and delivery.
