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Kore-eda Hirokazu returns with “Asura”: A new family drama for Netflix
Japanese film director Kore-eda Hirokazu, renowned for his nuanced storytelling, is nearing the completion of his latest project, “Asura.” This family drama series marks his second collaboration with the global streaming platform, Netflix.
The modern retelling of “Like Asura”
“Asura,” set to premiere on January 9, 2025, reimagines the classic 1979 family drama series ”Like Asura.” Originally based on Mukoda Kuniko’s novel, the series left an indelible mark on Japanese television, airing on the public broadcaster NHK and inspiring a feature film adaptation in 2003.
Plot details and themes
Set in 1979, “Asura” centers on the tumultuous lives of four sisters: Tsunako, Makiko, Takiko, and Sakiko. Their world is turned upside down upon discovering their aging father’s affair. Much like the asura (demigods in Buddhist cosmology), these women embody a tempest of emotions. Their interactions are fraught with conflict but also touched by heartfelt moments of connection. The series delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the complex dynamics that bind these sisters together.
Kore-eda’s unique vision
Kore-eda, integrating his profound respect for Mukoda’s influence on his career, brings a distinct perspective to “Asura.” His approach emphasizes the independence and complexity of women, echoing through every emotional beat and interaction in the series. Netflix notes that Kore-eda’s vision showcases the resilience and multifaceted nature of its female characters.
“What makes Kuniko Mukoda’s dramas so rich are the superficial poison exchanged in conversation and the love hidden behind those cruel words,” Kore-eda notes. This intricate understanding is evidently brought to life by the talented cast, including Miyazawa Rie, Ono Machiko, Aoi Yu, and Hirose Suzu as the four sisters.
A celebrated filmmaker’s latest endeavor
Kore-eda is celebrated for his mastery in family dramas, proven by his Palme d’Or-winning film “Shoplifters,” and other well-regarded works like “Like Father, Like Son,” “Nobody Knows,” and “Our Little Sister.” His previous Netflix project, “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House”, released in 2023, received critical acclaim.
“Asura” aims to resonate with audiences worldwide by capturing universal family dynamics. It presents a slice of life reflecting cross-cultural themes of familial connection, conflict, and growth, set against the backdrop of 1970s Japan.
Production insights
Yagi Yasuo, who has previously worked with Mukoda, oversaw the development and production of “Asura.” Reflecting on the project, Yagi shared, “Before the 40th year since [Mukoda’s] passing, I revisited her works and realized that ‘Like Asura’ was central to her legacy. We focused on casting the best actors for the sisters, and with Kore-eda as director, I believe we’ve created a quintessential drama.”
Technical crew
The series boasts an impressive team behind the camera:
- Producers: Fukuma Miyuki, Kitahara Eiji, Taguchi Hijiri
- Production companies: Bunbuku, Netflix
- Music: fox capture plan
- Cinematography: Takimoto Mikiya
- Lighting: Fujii Norikiyo
- Sound: Tomita Kazuhiko
- Production design: Mitsumatsu Keiko, Nunobe Masato
- Set decoration: Tatsuta Tetsuji, Haba Shiori
- Costume design: Ito Sacico
- Hair and make-up: Sakai Mutsuki
- Sound effects: Okase Akihiko, Hasegawa Go
- Assistant director: Matsuo Takashi
- Script supervision: Oshida Tomoko
- Production lead: Goto Ichiro
- Line production: Kikuchi Masaaki
Official synopsis
Netflix’s official synopsis provides a glimpse into the storyline: “One winter day, the four Takezawa sisters — ikebana teacher Tsunako (Miyazawa), housewife Makiko (Ono), librarian Takiko (Aoi), and waitress Sakiko (Hirose) — reunite after a long time. Takiko suspects that their elderly father, Kotaro, has a lover and possibly a child. While the other sisters find this hard to believe, they agree to keep this secret from their mother, Fuji. This revelation triggers various conflicts and secrets to surface within the women’s lives.”
For cinephiles and drama enthusiasts alike, “Asura” promises to be a compelling exploration of familial ties and the emotional depths they encompass. Follow us for more updates on upcoming films and series, and share this with friends eager to catch the premiere on January 9, 2025.
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