Ikuta Toma stars in the drama 'My Story Is Long 2025 Spring', which airs tonight at 10:30 PM JST on Nippon Television. This is the first of a two-week consecutive broadcast, depicting the life of Mituo (Ikuta Toma) five years after the original drama, still unemployed and evading reality with excuses and sophistry.
'My Story Is Long' originally aired in October 2019, written by Arisa Kaneko, and follows Mituo, a NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), who lives with his family. The new installment shows Mituo at 36 years old, facing the consequences of his choices as he continues to avoid responsibility.
In the original series, Mituo had attempted to work as a secretary for a prefectural assembly member but was fired after just two and a half months. Since then, he has been living off his mother Fusae (played by Michiko Hagiwara), who has been struggling with her coffee shop, 'Polaris', which has been closed for three years due to the pandemic's impact.
As the family grapples with their current situation, Mituo's sister Ayako (Eiko Koike) and her husband Koji (Akira Yasuda) arrive at the Kishibe household to share takenoko rice, bringing tension into the already complicated family dynamics. Ayako proposes to take over the coffee shop, a suggestion that Mituo vehemently opposes, fearing that he might lose control over his family home and legacy.
Meanwhile, Mituo's niece Harumi (Kaya Kiyohara) returns to Tokyo, having been studying in Osaka, and expresses her desire to keep the family home intact. "I love this house. I love 'Polaris'. More than anyone in our family," she declares, emphasizing her emotional connection to the family business.
The first episode, titled 'Takenoko and Zunda Mochi', features a dynamic scene where Mituo, Fusae, Koji, and Ayako engage in a heated discussion in the cramped kitchen of the Kishibe home. This prolonged dialogue showcases the show's essence: a conversation-driven narrative that highlights Mituo's talent for sophistry and his tendency to evade accountability.
Kaneko's writing has been praised for its ability to capture the struggles of a generation that has faced economic uncertainty. As the NEET culture has become more prevalent in Japan, Mituo's character resonates with many viewers who see reflections of their own experiences in his life.
In the original series, Mituo's charm lay in his ability to justify his inaction with clever arguments, making him a relatable figure for those who have felt trapped in their circumstances. The show explores themes of family conflict, societal expectations, and the challenges of adulthood in a light-hearted yet poignant manner.
The special drama 'My Story Is Long ~2025 Spring~' promises to delve deeper into these themes while revisiting beloved characters. With the return of the original cast, including Michiko Hagiwara as Fusae, the audience can expect a rich exploration of familial ties and the complexities of modern life.
As the Kishibe family navigates their evolving dynamics, viewers will be drawn into the humorous yet heartfelt moments that characterize their interactions. Mituo's reluctance to change and his sister's determination to take charge create a compelling narrative that reflects the struggles many face in contemporary society.
In addition to the engaging storyline, the show is noted for its nostalgic elements, as it revisits the family dynamics established in the original series. The interactions between Mituo and his family members are filled with both warmth and tension, showcasing the intricacies of familial love and conflict.
As the drama unfolds, audiences are left wondering whether Mituo will ever take the leap into adulthood or continue to evade responsibility. The character's journey serves as a mirror to societal expectations, providing a relatable commentary on the struggles of finding one's path in life.
'My Story Is Long ~2025 Spring~' is set to air on Nippon Television Network on March 30 and April 6, 2025, at 10:30 PM JST. With its unique blend of humor and drama, the show is poised to capture the hearts of viewers once again, reminding them of the importance of family, the challenges of adulthood, and the enduring quest for purpose.
