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theguardian.com
Asura": Kore-eda's Overlooked Japanese Family Drama
Hirokazu Kore-eda's "Asura" (Netflix), a 7-episode Japanese drama released in early January 2024, follows four sisters' reactions to discovering their father's affair and a possible fifth sibling, exploring themes of womanhood, family, and societal expectations in 1970s Japan.
- What are the primary themes explored in "Asura", and how do they resonate with contemporary audiences?
- Asura", a Japanese drama on Netflix directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, has been largely overlooked despite its critical acclaim and strong word-of-mouth. The series follows four sisters grappling with their father's affair and a possible fifth sibling, exploring themes of womanhood and family in 1970s Japan. Its unique blend of humor and tragedy makes it a compelling and empathetic watch.
- How does the series utilize symbolic elements like food and telephones to enhance its narrative and thematic depth?
- The show's success lies in its nuanced portrayal of female relationships and the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. The sisters' reactions to their father's infidelity range from amusement to quiet questioning, highlighting their resilience and complex emotional responses. The use of food and telephones as symbolic elements further enhances the narrative depth.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of the series' success or failure in relation to platform marketing strategies and the representation of diverse voices in mainstream media?
- Asura"'s quiet release and subsequent lack of promotion highlight a larger issue of platform bias towards certain types of content and creators. The series' success despite this suggests the potential for greater audience engagement if given adequate marketing support. The film's focus on nuanced, realistic portrayal of female relationships could spark further discussions regarding gender dynamics and family structures within a specific historical and cultural context.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The review is overwhelmingly positive, framing Asura as a hidden gem and a must-watch. The lack of promotion is highlighted to emphasize the reviewer's point that the show deserves more attention. This positive framing could influence the reader's perception, potentially leading them to overlook potential shortcomings.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and enthusiastic, employing superlatives such as "fantastic," "stunning," and "remarkable." While this creates a strong recommendation, it lacks neutrality. More neutral terms could be used, such as "well-made," "visually appealing," and "compelling." However, given the context of a review, the enthusiastic tone is appropriate.
Sustainable Development Goals
The series centers on four sisters navigating womanhood and femininity in 1970s Japan, showcasing their diverse experiences and challenges. Their reactions to their father's infidelity and the exploration of their individual moral compasses highlight the complexities of gender roles and expectations during that era. The show implicitly critiques societal norms that constrain women and celebrates the strength and resilience of the female bond.