In the fifth week of the drama series "Anpan," which aired from April 28 to May 2, 2025, viewers witnessed significant developments as the story progresses through the tumultuous years of the Showa era. The narrative, set in Showa 11, follows Nobu, played by Moka Kamada, as she leaves the Asada family to enter a girls' normal school. This transition marks a pivotal moment in her life as she navigates the pressures of a militaristic education under Yukiko Kuroi, portrayed by Azumi Setouchi.
Nobu's journey is not without challenges. Alongside her friend Usako, played by Akira Shida, she faces the daunting expectations set by their teachers. Meanwhile, Iwao, portrayed by Takumi Kitamura, grapples with his future aspirations. As a medical student, he confides in his brother Chizuru, played by Motoki Nakazawa, expressing his uncertainty about becoming a doctor and revealing his desire to pursue a different path.
In a parallel storyline, Ayako, played by Yumi Kawai, receives a marriage proposal, adding a layer of complexity to the Asada family dynamics. The series intricately weaves these personal stories against the backdrop of historical events, reflecting the struggles and dreams of a couple who created the beloved character Anpanman. The show, crafted by writer Miho Nakazono, is known for its meticulous storytelling and character development.
Notably, the transition from childhood to adolescence is depicted through the characters’ evolving relationships. The series effectively highlights how Nobu and Iwao's roles have changed over time, with Nobu evolving from a second-grade student to a fifth-year high school student, while Iwao transitions into a fifth-year student in the old-system junior high school. This shift in character dynamics is further emphasized by the introduction of a radio as a significant prop in the story, symbolizing the characters' connection to the outside world.
The introduction of the radio in the Asada household in 1936 serves as a crucial storytelling device. It broadcasts the domestic preliminaries for the Berlin Olympics, a moment that foreshadows the impending global conflict of World War II, which began three years later with Germany's invasion of Poland. This historical context enriches the narrative, allowing viewers to grasp the gravity of the characters' experiences during a time of uncertainty.
As the characters navigate their lives, the complexities of familial relationships come to the forefront. Iwao and Chizuru, both raised by their mother Sumiko Yanagi, played by Sayoko Matsumoto, exhibit contrasting feelings towards her. Iwao harbors a sense of love for Sumiko, while Chizuru expresses resentment, feeling abandoned. This emotional tension adds depth to their characters, illustrating how their past experiences shape their present interactions.
The series also touches on themes of personal growth and self-discovery. Iwao's character, who initially appears naive, begins to show signs of maturity as he reflects on his family's dynamics. His concern over Sumiko's changing demeanor—"she doesn't smile as much as before"—reveals his growing awareness of their emotional landscape.
Meanwhile, the character of Sumiko, who often wears purple clothing—a color associated with Anpanman's nemesis, Baikinman—serves as a visual metaphor for her dual nature. This nuanced portrayal invites viewers to ponder the complexities of her character and the implications of her choices.
The casting choices have also garnered attention. Akira Shida's portrayal of Usako has been noted for its depth, with the actress previously recognized in the January 18-25, 2024 issue of "Josei Seven" as an emerging talent. Her reunion with Kaeuta Hosoda, who plays Hara, after their collaboration in "Dragon Zakura Season 2," adds an exciting layer to the narrative.
Additionally, the character Nakae Takadai, played by Chihiro Ichikawa, has become a fan favorite, trending on social media. This popularity is attributed to Ichikawa's engaging performance and the character's compelling storyline. Recently, Ichikawa announced her marriage to former Nogizaka46 member, Sena Nagashima, marking a significant milestone in her personal life.
As the series unfolds, the interactions between characters continue to captivate audiences. On April 21, 2025, Natsuko Yokosawa, who co-starred with Nana Muramatsu (playing Chiyoko) in "Asaichi," expressed her frustration over Sumiko's presence, reflecting the viewers' sentiments towards the character.
Overall, "Anpan" has successfully blended historical context with personal narratives, creating a rich tapestry of human experiences. The series not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of life, love, and ambition during a transformative period in Japanese history.
As the drama progresses, audiences can expect more twists and turns, keeping them engaged and eager to witness the characters' journeys unfold. With its powerful storytelling and relatable characters, "Anpan" continues to resonate with viewers, embodying the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
