Asura: A Modern Take on Japanese Family Drama Premiering January 9 on Netflix

Revisit the essence of Japanese family drama with Asura, a series reimagining Kuniko Mukoda’s classic Like Asura. Premiering January 9 on Netflix, the story, directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, delves into timeless family dynamics and self-discovery.

A Timeless Family Story Revitalized

Netflix’s upcoming drama series Asura, premiering on January 9, brings a fresh perspective to the cherished Japanese family drama Like Asura. Helmed by the renowned filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, this adaptation stars celebrated actors Rie Miyazawa, Machiko Ono, Yu Aoi, and Suzu Hirose. Together, they delve into a universal portrayal of family complexities, delivering a narrative that transcends cultural boundaries.

Modern Direction for a Classic Narrative

Esteemed director Hirokazu Kore-eda, known for his work on Shoplifters and Our Little Sister, brings his unique vision to Asura, incorporating subtle realism to honor Kuniko Mukoda’s storytelling legacy. In collaboration with producer Yasuo Yagi, Kore-eda presents a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s 1970s, preserving the emotional depth of the original work. Mukoda’s tale, rooted in her hallmark style of intertwining candid conversations and concealed affection, remains intact, offering a blend of poignant and sometimes sharp exchanges.

Exploring Complex Family Ties and Inner Strength

The original Like Asura, set in 1979, follows the lives of the four Takezawa sisters—Tsunako, Makiko, Takiko, and Sakiko—as they grapple with their father’s hidden affair. Their journeys echo the mythological “asura” figures, beings caught between serenity and turmoil. This narrative examines how family members confront betrayal and secrets, wrestling with conflicting views on love and life while discovering new facets of self-growth and resilience.

A Creative Team Honoring Mukoda’s Legacy

Kore-eda expresses admiration for Mukoda’s nuanced storytelling, particularly her ability to imbue humor and hidden warmth into tense conversations. “Her dramas are rich with emotion beneath the surface,” he reflects. The actresses, deeply attuned to Mukoda’s vision, bring authenticity to their roles, capturing both tension and love as they bring these iconic characters to life.

Producer Yagi, who worked with Mukoda early in his career, acknowledges the importance of Like Asura in her legacy. “Revisiting her work led me to understand its enduring influence,” he shares. “With a director like Kore-eda and such a talented cast, we’ve aspired to create a series that truly honors her vision.”

Characters Facing New Realities and Bonding Through Adversity

Asura introduces viewers to the Takezawa sisters, each unique in personality and life choices—Tsunako, an ikebana instructor; Makiko, a homemaker; Takiko, a librarian; and Sakiko, a waitress. Brought together by a family gathering, their lives are upturned when Takiko suspects their father has a lover and a child. Though initially disbelieved by her sisters, this suspicion ignites conversations and uncovers long-buried tensions and shared secrets, exposing the individual struggles each sister faces.

Production Excellence Bringing the Story to Life

The series features an accomplished team, including music by fox capture plan, cinematography by Mikiya Takimoto, and production design by Keiko Mitsumatsu and Masato Nunobe. Kore-eda’s signature style, complemented by meticulous lighting and set decoration, accentuates the era’s ambiance, adding to the authenticity of the narrative. Costume designer Sacico Ito and hair & makeup artist Mutsuki Sakai bring the retro look of the 1970s to life, immersing viewers in a time that feels both distant and familiar.

Join the Takezawa Sisters’ Journey

Catch Asura on January 9, exclusively on Netflix, and witness the Takezawa sisters’ poignant journey as they confront truths and seek fulfillment amidst life’s unpredictability.

Source: (Netflix)

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