In a unique blend of emotions and storytelling, the new drama series titled Shiawase wa Tabete Nete Mate, starring Yuki Sakuraba, is set to air on April 1, 2025, on NHK General. The series will highlight the struggles of relationships through its enlightening narrative, premiering every Tuesday at 10 PM.
The series has attracted considerable attention with the recent announcement of its expansive cast. Joining lead actress Yuki Sakuraba are Fuji Toshiharu, Tagami Tomoko, Nakayama Yuto, Okuyama Kazusa, Kitano Kii, Nishiyama Jun, Tsuchikura Shiohime, Nakayama Hina, and Asaga Mayumi. This strong lineup hints at a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing to the story's depth.
Meanwhile, another noteworthy film is on the horizon, titled Sato-san to Sato-san. Starring Yuki Kishi and Akari Miyawaki, the film is slated for theatrical release this fall in 2025. It delves into the everyday complexities of marriage, showcasing the humorous yet poignant experiences of a couple navigating their lives together.
In this film, Kishi portrays a disheveled lawyer wife, while Miyawaki plays a husband burdened by the rigors of parenthood. The story promises to capture the relatable, often chaotic dynamics of family life, presenting them with both charm and sincerity.
Written and directed by Chihiro Amano, who began her filmmaking career in 2009 after a stint in corporate life, this movie is inspired by her own journey. Amano's previous works have garnered attention, including the short film Sayonara Muffler, which was featured at the Scenario Art Organization Osaka, and her medium-length film Konchuhanagero, selected for the Pia Film Festival. She made her mark with her debut feature film Misesu Noise, which tackled social issues with a blend of dark humor.
Amano reflects on her creative process, stating, "The thrill of crafting an original story lies in the endless possibilities of creating a free world, which can be an incredibly lonely and challenging undertaking. Hence, the presence of my screenwriting partner, Kumagai-san, has been a great support." Her storytelling approach intertwines the everyday elements of domestic life with deeper social commentaries.
The film shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked challenges of suburban couples as they deal with both mundane tasks and critical life decisions. It questions why couples often find themselves at odds, rather than united in understanding. Kishi shares, "Why do the people we want to understand drift further away? Conversations that should be joyful slip through our fingers due to unnecessary words and misdirected kindness. I don't understand the 'normal' of a couple, but I believe family is universal yet each is profoundly unique. I hope the intense, joyous, painful, and happy record of Sato-san and Sato-san connects with you on some level and helps you not miss that fleeting happiness. "
On the other side of this creative endeavor, Miyawaki expresses a fond collaboration with Kishi, highlighting their seamless chemistry during filming: "From the very first day of shooting, we opened our hearts to each other and I think we portrayed Tamotsu and Sachi solidly. When I first read the script, I was drawn into the surreal yet realistic dynamic of the relationship between the two Sato-san figures. I hope everyone can appreciate the journey of two different people leading their lives, even with a shared last name and husband and wife connections. "
The film also explores how roles evolve in a marriage, reflecting on Kishi's character transforming from a lawyer to a partner facing life while raising children. Amano has articulated her vision of the film relating to how two individuals can change over 15 years, growing from youthful days into a life filled with responsibilities and challenges that shape their relationship.
In an industry where portrayals of marriage often veer into tropes, Sato-san to Sato-san aims to offer a fresh perspective. Amano indicates, "Understanding 'the other' is a question we must continuously reflect upon, learning to intervene in each other's lives while balancing individuality with togetherness."
With a full slate of promising projects, fundamental themes of love, perception, and the human experience remain at the forefront of these stories. As both Shiawase wa Tabete Nete Mate and Sato-san to Sato-san make their respective debuts, audiences are eager to see how these narratives will unfold, promising heartfelt moments interlaced with humor, realism, and poignancy.
