Nihon Hoso Kyokai's (NHK) beloved morning drama, Kamukamu Eburibadi, returns to viewers with the rebroadcast of its 78th episode on March 12, 2025. Set against the backdrop of the Taiyo Film Village, this week marks the story's transition to the 17th arc, subtitled "1983-1984." This story follows the character Hinata Omori, played by Rina Kawaei, as she navigates her burgeoning career as part of the production crew.
The episode kicks off with Hinata inadvertently causing trouble on set, getting off to a rocky start when she damages the wig of well-known actress Sumire Misaki, portrayed by Mio Yasuda. Sumire is no stranger to controversies herself; she is often noted for her melodramatic performances, recently garnering attention for delivering what viewers described as "daikon acting"—a term used to denote less-than-stellar performances.
Earlier broadcasts have shown Hinata's growth as the daughter of Rui (Eri Fukatsu) and Ichiro Moka (Ryo Odagiri). A high school senior deeply enamored with period dramas, Hinata's desire to become involved professionally is palpable. The plot deepens as she takes the leap to enter a beauty contest held at the Taiyo Film Village but faces disappointment when her dramatic reenactment, where she theatrically "kills" another actor, Fumishiro Gojushida (Kanata Hongo), does not win her the championship. Despite this, her over-the-top performance strikes a chord with the audience, signaling her potential.
During this time, Muromitsu Komukai (Yutaka Matsushige) takes notice of Hinata's enthusiasm and offers her part-time work at the film village. His cryptic comment, "I want you to save period dramas," sparks intrigue about Hinata's significance within this narrative.
Upon arriving for her first day of work, Hinata is introduced to Sakakibara Makoto (Hiranori Hidaka), who immediately praises her from the beauty contest. Their camaraderie develops as they navigate the film village and its various productions, including the notable series Hatenkou Shogun. During her time here, Hinata's determination becomes even more apparent as she meets Sumire Misaki on set.
Sumire's presence is both celebrated and controversial; she voiced discontent over her role and demanded modifications, exemplifying the ego often associated with celebrity actors. This friction culminates when she insists on negotiating her appearance, claiming the current production is beneath her. The already-strained negotiation with director Tsuyoshi Hijikata amplifies tensions on set, as he responds coldly to her demands.
Further heightening the drama, mishaps continue on set. Hinata discovers herself entangled with Sumire's dramatic antics, leading to questioning whether she can find her own footing amid seasoned actors imbibing their high-profile roles. The audience anticipates how Hinata's career may evolve through these encounters.
Sumire's limited rehearsal of her lines during shoot day once again attracts attention, exemplifying her reputation for incompetent acting. Hijikata's frustrated reaction echoes through the backstage area, "I can’t change… Sumire Misaki…" as he looks to the heavens, signaling the persistent issues surrounding her presence.
This episode paints both Hinata and Sumire through contrasting mirrors of ambition and discontent, entertaining audiences with their intertwined fates. It is the complex dance of the newer generation meeting the established actors, where the stakes for authenticity and success heighten the tension on set.
Next week will continue to unravel these narratives, as Hinata's progression within the entertainment industry reflects broader themes of perseverance against adversity, and the relentless quest for acknowledgment within the prestigious yet treacherous world of film.