NHK's morning drama "Omugisu" faces ups and downs as it embarks on its year-end broadcast, appealing to viewers through emotional storytelling intertwined with real historical events. Year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake, prompting the drama's writer, Nonji Nemoto, to address this significant topic with depth and sincerity.
When it first aired, "Omugisu" attracted notable viewership, bowing out with average ratings peaking at 16.8%. Since then, it has faced fluctuations, now averaging around 13-14%, the lowest for recent NHK dramas. This drop is symptomatic of the television viewership trend which has shifted from household ratings to individual ratings, creating diverse ways for audiences to consume content.
During the broadcast, the main protagonist Yui, portrayed by Kanna Hashimoto, aims to be a nutritionist and faces personal and communal struggles stemming from her and her family's experiences during and after the earthquake. These themes resonate with viewers attempting to comprehend the realities of life post-disaster, illustrating their resilience.
Nemoto has acknowledged the challenges of creating original modern dramas, specifying the apprehension felt toward presenting contemporary narratives, particularly those set during the Heisei period after the burst of the economic bubble and the subsequent stagnation termed the "lost three decades."
“Recent original dramas often receive stern criticism,” Nemoto stated. "It poses questions related to character success and audience expectations; if the character's path is uncertain, so is the viewer’s investment.” This uncertainty led to divided reactions, with some viewers feeling detached due to the complex and reflective nature of the narrative.
Critically, the show gained traction from week five onwards. The earlier weeks were criticized for belaboring the mundane aspects of life, but as viewers learned of Yui’s history and her family's struggle with the earthquake, perspective shifted. The show gradually began addressing the undercurrents of anxiety and the emotional scars left by such historical events. Audience reaction softened as they became aware of the intricacy of the plot and the authenticity with which the earthquake’s aftermath was presented.
Social media buzz highlighted mixed sentiments, where the initial wave of critiques resulted from the show not aligning with the lighter, escapist narratives typical of past morning dramas. Instead, "Omugisu" chooses to tackle serious themes through its depiction of everyday life and its emotional burdens. “It’s important we truly confront our past,” Nemoto reflected during interviews.
Looking forward, the show is poised for pivotal moments. With foreshadowing already hinting at Yui’s romantic developments, her relationship with Shoji (played by Hayato Sano) becomes increasingly complex. The year-end broadcast aligns with the audience’s reflections on their own lives, aiming to provide warmth and hope amid uncertainty.
"Omugisu" has seamless elements of bright scenarios alongside nuanced character developments, creating space for reflection as it moves closer to tackling the significance of marriage and partnership, which the upcoming episodes will explore. With the title of the next week titled "What Is Marriage, Really?", the producers aim to keep the audience engaged by exploring the multifaceted aspect of relationships.
The end of the year culminates with Yui's poignant ‘reverse proposal’, creating layers of hope and connection. With the show airing until January 6, the future of "Omugisu" ensures it remains relevant and engaging as viewers reflect on their own lives and relationships amid its cultural and historical narratives. By encouraging audiences to grapple with difficult questions about life, trauma, and human connection, "Omugisu" solidifies its spot as a dramatic piece worthy of discussion and reflection.
