NHK is gearing up for the highly anticipated premiere of its historical drama series, "BeraBou – Tsuta Juu Eika no Yume Banashi," scheduled to air on January 5, 2025. This 64th installment of the Taiga drama series promises to offer viewers insight not only about its main character, Tsutaya Juzaburo, often hailed as the "media king" of Edo, but also the rich cultural backdrop of the Edo period.
Tsutaya Juzaburo, portrayed by the talented Ryusei Yokohama, will take center stage as audiences watch his transformation from humble beginnings, raised under the care of surrogate parents after the divorce of his biological ones, to becoming one of Edo's most prominent figures. The narrative will capture his rise through the ranks of Edo's vibrant publishing scene, touching on how he discovered and nurtured the talents of many notable artists of the time, such as Hokusai and Utamaro.
The series will also feature Fuka Koshiba as Hana no I, who emerges as not only Juzaburo's close friend but also as a legendary courtesan who works tirelessly to support him. The character's complex relationship with Juzaburo adds to the intensity of their shared story as they navigate the harsh realities of life within the confines of the Yoshiwara district, known for its strict rules and hierarchies.
It is interesting to note how the show’s creators plan to portray the era's socio-political battles through the word of Tanuma Okitsugu, who will be played by renowned actor Watanabe Ken. Okitsugu is often regarded as the embodiment of corruption and power during his reign as the shogunal advisor, and the drama aims to humanize this character, showcasing his impact on Juzaburo's life. Watanabe has mentioned, "BeraBou depicts beautiful and painful moments of human experiences within the strict societal hierarchies of Edo," showing his commitment to delivering depth to his role.
Besides its captivating narrative, viewers can expect visually stunning scenes capturing the essence of Edo culture. The show will not shy away from depicting the regulations and social structures governing Yoshiwara, providing audiences with authentic experiences of life during the politically dynamic yet peacefully prosperous mid-Edo period.
With themes of ambition, creativity, friendships, and cultural richness, "BeraBou" has all the ingredients for success. Ryusei Yokohama noted, "The story of Tsutaya Juzaburo is one of ambition and creativity against the backdrop of Edo's vibrant culture," reflecting on how the script emphasizes emotional storytelling.
Fans can also look forward to the portrayal of Juzaburo's role as not only a publisher but also as someone championing the arts during his time, bridging the gap between the common people and the elite classes through his publications and promotion of local talents. The potential challenges presented by the incoming political shifts after Okitsugu's downfall, leading to the restrictive reforms of Matsudaira Sadanobu, promise to create tension and drama.
Overall, the forthcoming drama appears poised to captivate audiences both for its compelling storytelling and its luscious cinematics, making it one of the most anticipated programs of 2025. With each episode, viewers will get to witness the humorous, tragic, and uplifting moments of Edo city life filtered through the lens of Tsutaya Juzaburo's experiences.