The highly anticipated drama special Wagaie wa Tanoshi, directed by renowned filmmakers Koji Yamada and Fukuko Ishii, is set to air at 9 PM on March 13, 2025. This production marks their first collaboration since the 2018 drama Akui mo Motto and aims to shed light on the meaning of family and marriage with both humor and emotional depth.
Koji Yamada, credited for creating iconic films like the Otoko wa Tsuraiyo series, has taken on the role of writer and screenwriter. Fukuko Ishii, who has produced numerous home dramas such as Wataru Seken wa Oni Bakari, is serving as producer. The duo brings years of experience and expertise to explore contemporary family themes through the lens of their engaging storytelling.
The story revolves around Sachinosuke Hirayama, portrayed by actor Fumiyo Kohinata, who is poised to retire after decades of dedicated work. Aiming to enjoy his golden years peacefully with his wife, Shie Hirayama, played by Yoshiko Toda, Sachinosuke's expectations for life after retirement take an unexpected turn when Shie reveals she has dreams of opening her own book café. Unbeknownst to Sachinosuke, Shie's aspiration to use their shared retirement savings for the venture ignites conflict.
Despite her enthusiasm, Sachinosuke vehemently opposes Shie's plans. This disagreement eventually spills over, pulling their children—Kazuo, the university student played by Kaito Takahashi, and Haruka, the tax accountant portrayed by Yuki Sakurai—into the brewing family drama. Kazuo, concerned about his own future and caught between his parents' turmoil, finds himself pondering how to intervene without exacerbation. Meanwhile, Haruka, who lives apart from her parents, strives alongside her husband, Yuta Hazukuchi (Kazuki Enari), to mend their fractured relationship.
Echoing the universal challenges faced by families, Fukuko Ishii expresses concern about the decreasing visibility of family-centered dramas on television today. “I've been sensing the importance of family and have often discussed this feeling with Koji Yamada,” she shared. “Through our last works together, we've decided to create something meaningful—a script showcasing the essence and struggles of family life.”
Alongside these themes of familial bonds, the drama delves deep, exploring how misunderstandings and communication issues often create tension. The characters navigate the nuances of relationships and emotional ties, which resonate strongly with the viewers.
Ishii reflects on the importance of family dynamics, noting how the uplifting element of families coexisting with their disagreements could lead to greater appreciation of their roles. She hopes viewers recognize the complexity of familial relationships. “Even with difficult moments, being able to live together is wonderful and signifies ‘family’,” she explains. “Through the conflicts shown, I want to convey the ultimate message: ‘Family is enjoyable.’”
The production also boasts a diverse cast, featuring Fumiyo Kohinata as Sachinosuke Hirayama, Yoshiko Toda as his wife, Shie, Kaito Takahashi as their eldest son, Kazuo, Yuki Sakurai as their daughter, Haruka, Anna Yamada portraying Kazuo's girlfriend, Misuzu Yoshioka, and Kazuki Enari as Haruka's husband, Yuta. Other notable talents include YOU, Kaneko Iwasaki, Takuzo, and Sachiko Mita, all contributing to the narrative’s rich depth.
The insightful family-focused storytelling of Wagaie wa Tanoshi stands as a reminder to audiences of the joys and struggles present within familial bonds. With Koji Yamada’s magical scripting and Fukuko Ishii’s adept production sense, this show is sure to touch the hearts of those who watch. The themes of reconciliation, communication, and the shared laughter and tears encapsulate the essence of family, leaving viewers with both questions and reflections long after the episode has ended.
This drama promises to resonate with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of family life, especially the often complex relationships between parents and children. By presenting such recognizable experiences, the cast and crew aim for the audience to not only view the production but to find comfort and familiarity within it. Tune in on March 13, 2025, to witness the captivating story of Wagaie wa Tanoshi.