NHK's much-anticipated Taiga drama 'Beyond the Clouds' is set to captivate audiences starting January 5, 2025, and it promises to take viewers on a thrilling ride through the life of Tsutaya Juuzaburou, one of the most influential publishers of the Edo period.
Portrayed by the talented Ryusei Yokohama, Tsutaya is not just any historical figure; he was the man behind the fame of several notable artists including the renowned printmaker Katsushika Hokusai and the famous Ukiyo-e master Kitagawa Utamaro. This historical drama showcases not only his rise to prominence but also his resolve to navigate the turbulent waters of entertainment and media during his time.
Joining Yokohama is actress Ai Hashimoto, who plays the role of Tsutaya's wife. Hashimoto expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I want to portray Juuzaburou with responsibility," reflecting her deep commitment to accurately depicting the dynamic character she brings to life. This sentiment resonates with the essence of the story, which is steeped in the historical intricacies of the 18th century.
The series explores what life was like growing up during such times, particularly for Juuzaburou, who hailed from Yoshiwara—the famous red-light district of Edo. Historical consultant Toshiyuki Suzuki elaborated on the district's significance, explaining, "Yoshiwara was seen as a proud area by the people of Edo, distinct from modern perspectives." This statement draws attention to the complex cultural heritage of the place and serves as the backdrop for the drama.
The premise of 'Beyond the Clouds' also delves deep and tackles how Juuzaburou managed to establish himself in a world where the publishing business was not accessible to everyone. The obstacles he faced, including financial challenges and the necessity of building relationships within the industry, are richly portrayed. The drama chronicles his evolution from running a humble lending business to becoming Edo's media king.
Juuzaburou's vision was clear: he believed “if good books and good illustrations become widespread, people will shift toward joy and happiness.” This philosophy guided him through the trials of his life, reinforcing the idea of entertainment as not just leisure but as a means of cultural enrichment.
Interestingly, Tsutaya's life wasn't without upheaval. He experienced conflicts with the ruling classes of the period, leading to the censorship of some of his works. Even the death of close companions weighed heavily on him, yet his resolve to entertain and uplift his community never wavered throughout his tumultuous life.
Critically acclaimed pieces of literature and artistry emerged from Juuzaburou's publishing houses, which contributed significantly to the popular culture of the Edo period. Through his experience and personal tribulations, he highlighted the diversity of human emotions and the value of storytelling.
Because his life intertwined with several renowned personalities, including famed playwright Santō Kyōden and artist Katsukawa Shunshō, viewers are eagerly anticipating how their stories will be interwoven within the drama.
With authentic storytelling, 'Beyond the Clouds' seeks to shine a light on Juuzaburou’s unwavering spirit and creativity. Hashimoto concludes, buoyed by the opportunity, "I learned so much about the culture of entertaining and what it meant to be part of something bigger than oneself. It’s about the emotional connection we share through stories and laughter, and I hope viewers will feel this too.”
The upcoming Taiga drama stands out not just for its historical significance but also for its contemporary relevance as it draws parallels between past and present challenges of the entertainment industry. The show seeks to inspire and inspire ambition within its audience by exploring how entertainment can rejuvenate and reshape society.
Expectations are high for 'Beyond the Clouds', which is sure to present not just entertainment but also reflections on creativity, hardships, and the power of human connection, making it a must-watch for both history enthusiasts and drama fans alike.