1/29 ブログのポスト

 Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

Yakumo Yuurakutei (young and old)

    Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu depicts the story of an ex-yakuza, Yotarou, fresh out of prison who has fallen in love with the Japanese art of comedic storytelling known as rakugo. The story takes place in the present as the ex-yakuza is taken in by Yakumo Yuurakutei, one of the most respected of all rakugo practitioners, and learns the craft. It also takes place in the past as it explores the incredible and tragic life of Yakumo Yuurakutei and the death of his once-best friend and rival, as well as the father of the girl under Yakumo's care Konatsu. The show is dripping with noir style as it depicts a time of great upheaval in Japan post-war. Though I have not finished the show yet or watched its second season, it is already turning out to be one of my all-time favorites with its wonderfully well-drawn and fascinating characters and its incredible animation of the nuances of the art of rakugo.


Sukeroku Yuurakutei (performing in his youth)

    The dialogue of the show poses some interesting problems for a new Japanese learner like myself because it emulates the style of speaking of post-war Japan for much of its runtime. The rakugo itself often comes from even older stories. Even though understanding the language is challenging, I am still gaining great cultural understanding from the show as it balances realism and romanticism in its depiction of the Shouwa Era. The art of rakugo was completely unknown to me before watching this show, and I am glad that I discovered what seems to be a great contribution to the realm of performance art.

Yakumo Yuurakutei (performing in his old age)




Comments

  1. AnonymousApril 27, 2023 at 8:58 PM

    This show looks so fascinating! From looking at the pictures and gifs you posted on this blogpost, I can tel the graphics go hard. Great job at finding such an interesting show. I also like how the main character is a yakuza, considering that's an controversial??? ish topic! Where could I watch the show?

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