Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

I believe it is safe to say that Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinju is the sleeper hit of the Winter 2016 season. What got me interested in the series is how it centers around the traditional Japanese performance known as "rakugo". It's basically where a single performer gets on stage and tells a normally amusing tale. It's kind of like stand-up comedy, only the performer is sitting down. The first episode does a pretty good job incorporating this art and introducing it to the viewers. The main story is fantastic, telling of talent, fame, and friendship, as well as the changing of time. With a great story comes great characters, and this is one done well. We mostly focus on two characters and their relationship over the years, as well as their career in the rakugo industry. The relationship between the two is fascinating with how they go in and out of hating and loving each other. What I like about it is how it truly feels like an actual friendship. There's nothing much in the animation that's really distinguishable from other shows, but it still fits with the drama and the time period it is set in. This show really surprised me. Prior to the show airing, the summaries didn't make sense (most likely they were from a poor translation), so I went in not knowing a whole lot. With episode one, I was hooked and found an interest in rakugo. Upon the conclusion of the show, it was announced another season will come in the future, which has me so excited. If you're looking for a good period piece with well-written drama and traditional Japanese art, this show is the one to see.

A story about storytellers. Who would've thought that a story like that can break my heart. Even though the story doesn't hide the characters' fate, the inevitable still impacts me hard thanks to its amazing storytelling and direction. The characters feel so alive and human. I am attached to every single character as I could feel my heart ache by their fates. This is also because the show's able to balance comedy, drama, romance, and tragedy. The way the show portrays Rakugo is especially well done. The VAs' performances combined with the sound design and direction have made me enjoy every moment the episode focuses on the storytellers telling a story to the audience. Their attention to detail should be praised. The artwork and animation is well done. Even though the latter is mostly static, the direction and writing have made every moment impactful and purposeful. The OST suits the mood, and the OP definitely combines the jazz and unsettling narrative of the show. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is an amazing show that shouldn't be missed.

A very heartfelt anime with outstanding music that completely transports you to the time period where this story wants you to go. The characters are refreshing and new,; they have their own ambitions, joys, trauma and way of coping with it that really makes them stand out from the tired old sterotypes we've all grown used to seeing in. It's able to engage the viewer in this story about two young rakugo apprentices trying to find and make their own place in this world and all the hardships and enjoyment they'll encounter along the way. Although slow at times, there's always something happening that can keep you interested. Admittedly, I was a bit skeptic of having to sit through actual rakugo, and even if the show's audience appreciated it much more than I ever could do, it surprisingly was quite charming in a way. Why a 7 then? I only seem to go on about praising the show, what doesn't make it a 10? Simple: the show and I weren't on the same wavelength. I am sure many won't really get irked by the way it handles some plot points but man, did I get frustrated at times. After this it's just me rambling with some light spoilers, so you can make your decision of continuing or not. Do you know who deserves much, much better? Konatsu. She is cut down, dismissed and talked over time and time again because of the single fact she is a woman. The thing that makes me mad is how the show actually portrays this as something I need to accept, not something that will be change, and believe me, it doesn't. The only other woman in this show is her mother, an obsessive person who by the life of me I cannot figure out how the characters couldn't put a stop to her. Miyokichi can be a really interesting person, don't get me wrong, the times she talks about something that doesn't involve "kikuuu san~" we get some introspective moments; however, as already stated this only occurs when Kiku isn't involved, something that happens, oh, i dunno, like 10% of her screen time? Not nearly enough, because let me tell you, when she's with him I have never seen more red flags in a relationship. Oh, and her voice is extremely annoying. Dropping it out there, not being petty. It just is. Also, is it just me, or are there incredibly obvious subtexts of kiku being gay for sukeroku? Because god damn, it was so blatant I was pretty much prepared for someone to do something regarding that. I don't know if it's just implied for the audience to catch on and understand that in those times it was seen badly enough that kiku rejected this part of himself (it´s so so clear for me guys, I swear, like each episode there are 5 or more instances that it's obvious he likes sukeroku, if this were a heterosexual couple I would be 100% sure they'd end up together by the end of the 2nd episode of backstory) or there is actually nothing and the people making this are blind. Again, another time where I'm just supposed to accept this and don't question this conservative views at all.

The life of artists is not always portrayed accurately in works of fiction, so watching Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu do it well was incredibly refreshing. I will be abbreviating the title as SGRS from time to time. Summary: Be warned, this series is not for everyone. It is extremely dialogue-heavy, and does not baby the viewer. This being said, if attention is paid, Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is an incredibly moving and resonant tale about life, sacrifice, and persistence. Story: 9/10 Most of the 13 episodes are flashbacks from the perspective of the protagonist, Bon/Kiku/Yakumo 8th. He details his trials and tribulations along his journey in becoming one of the most influential Rakugo performers in the world, a multi-decade-long journey. The drama that is shown is some of anime's best, in terms of quality and enjoyability, and is done in a way that may make the viewer forget it is fiction for a time. SGRS takes a simple premise, runs with it, and never looks back. Art: 10/10 The art style and animation quality, while not groundbreaking, was of high quality throughout each episode. This is especially true for the character designs. Facial expressions are exceptional in portraying emotion, the stylistic diversity of the main cast leaves nothing to be desired, and each character's design matches perfectly with their voice. This, coupled with subtle use of background scenes and colors to convey tone or foreshadow, earns SGRS a 10/10 for Art. Sound: 10/10 Both music and voice acting are of the utmost importance in Slice of Life series, and SGRS absolutely delivers in both categories. As far as Voice Acting goes, voices match character designs well, the voice actors deliver elegantly in dramatic scenes, and they make Rakugo entertaining, even to those who are not familiar with it (at least, in my experience.) The jazz-inspired OST, ED and OP all match the tone of the show well, and are quite catchy. Character: 10/10 Not much to say here without giving anything away, but if the characters feel like real people, I have absolutely nothing to complain about in regards to character development. Each one feels unique, complex and complex, especially Sukeroku and Kiku. Enjoyment: 9/10 My experience as a drummer and actor in my younger years made the process of learning Rakugo relatable, and made it rewarding when they succeeded. Seeing their interpersonal drama was an absolute treat, though it felt a bit slow at times. This being said, it was never difficult to watch, and nothing felt too insignificant to sit through. Overall: 10/10 Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu shines as an enthralling drama, and is a refreshing change of pace from typical anime. The art is gorgeous, the cast and music fit the narrative perfectly, and the characters felt extremely well-developed.

I've just finished watching this series, and I desperately needed to write a review. This is not your "usual" masterpiece: it's not Deathnote, or another anime that starts with a bang. First two episodes are good, but not "outstanding": they are slow, and they try to make you get into Rakugo plays - and they are really weird for a newcomer (if you don't know anything about, don't worry: I didn't know myself, and the show explains everything you need without being too much verbose). After those episodes, everything changes, and the story gets amazing more and more... you'll start loving Rakugo plays, and the amazing characters of the show (and their incredible seiyuus :). A series that is way more than a simple "silent hit": it's a series that will be considered as a "niche" one, but instead is a rare masterpiece that will stick to your heart forever (something like Urusawa's Monster - if you know what I mean). In the end: watch it, love it, and spread the word :)

An amazing show, but not without its problems. I felt compelled, after seeing some of the reviews, to give some pushback and highlight not just the positives that lie in this show but also some of the negatives and weaknesses within it. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is the first josei anime I have watched, but I’m not a stranger to shows similar to this (in terms of demographic) in live action. To show respect to this series, I’d like to first begin with its strengths. Out of all the anime I’ve watched, this one easily has the best voice acting. Rakugo, the storytelling style at the heart of the series, relies on subtlety and nuance in every performance, and the voice actors bring it to life flawlessly. Some of the rakugo performances had me laughing more than most comedic anime I’ve seen, which says a lot. On top of that, the show features an absolutely fantastic OST, a banger OP, and a fitting ED, all of which complement the performances perfectly. Before moving on to some of the negatives, I want to note that the show never hooked me through its world or story. What drew me in were the characters, the themes, and the way the story was told. Kiku, in particular, is one of the most compelling characters I’ve seen in anime. His life and the challenges he faces speak to struggles that many people can relate to if you pay attention to his experiences. When I hear some of the criticism people have for this season, most of it feels pretty hollow to me. After finishing it, I’d say the most glaring issue with the show is Miyokichi. Without going into spoilers, I think she’s a mediocre character, one I’ve seen countless times before across different media. The same tragic backstory, the same motivations, and the same predictable ending all feel too familiar. Another issue I had with the show, which was probably unavoidable, is that the rakugo performances can be hit or miss. When they hit, they reach incredible heights and are genuinely captivating, but when they don’t, they tend to fall flat for me. I think that has a lot to do with the lack of cultural context or familiarity with the time period these stories come from, so the disconnect feels understandable. Ultimately, this is a must watch if you’re a fan of anime and want to experience something truly special and different compared to the usual seasonal offerings. Enjoy!

Initial Review: This series is one I enjoyed quite a bit for its characters rather than the narrative as a whole, and maybe that's part of the point. Rakugo is all about a single person portraying many different personalities, so the characters they bring to it are really everything. Character studies are usually among my favorites in anime, and this would probably rank higher for me if one of the bigger turning points of the series didn't feel so needlessly contrived. This series is best in its quieter moments and its stories are just as engrossing for us as they are for the audiences of the characters themselves. I might rate this higher after I finish S2, but for now, it sits here. After finishing S2: I bumped this up a bit. The moment in question that irked me at least got some fleshing out in S2, and though I don’t think it rates as high as that season, it is nonetheless more affecting now.

Pizza Review! (I review and describe the anime with a pizza analogy) Rakugo is like the pizza that is criminally underrated and looks boring and strange that no one would ever order it. But those who are brave and curious enough to order it get to enjoy an amazing pizza. The toppings look uninteresting but they're actually extremely interesting when given a chance and the flavour is so deep and meaningful that it hits you hard at some points. After taking a bite you will be looking at the pizza in shock and confusion and think "How the hell is this so good? Why am I enjoying this?". Rakugo has a distinct taste with it and it's not for everyone but it's got a really nice aroma, texture and flavour to it. Rakugo is the underrated pizza, it's the pizza with yogurt on it. For those willing to go out their comfort zone and for seekers of strange and unique experiences in taste, it's definitely a great pizza. Story - 9/10 Art - 8/10 Sound - 7/10 Character - 9/10 Enjoyment - 9/10 Overall - 9/10

*Disclaimer* Just personal scratch. Advised, possible spoilers. Opinion & Informal Art: 6/10 Mature style. Standard anatomy. Casual-realistic art style. It was good, but not impressive. There was nothing done art-wise that deserves any note. No panoramic shots or nature impact scenes. There were no impact shots used at all. Clean and crisp, but no real detail in the art or scenery. Animation: 7/10 Nothing to complain about but nothing to praise either. No impact scenes or animation at all. Standard movements and frame use. Heavy use of cut-less shots, but surprisingly fit into what the show was going for so it's not a minus. Movements were about average. No impressive fluidity or flair, considering this show makes a point of Rakugo having an element of how important the mannerisms of the storyteller are...for as much as this show did in glorifying Rakugo it didn't exactly use any impact-animations to show off any of these so-called impressive mannerisms. To be clear it did show off Rakugo mannerisms, but the problem is is that there wasn't a single scene that had any impressive __animation__ showing this off. That's why the animation score for this show is only average-good. Characters: 9/10 Characters were well done. The main cast seemed very human. I'm sure any viewer could find at least one semblance of relatability to any of the characters. I personally found black-haired MC relatable on more than one account. The dynamics between the main cast was done very well too...how certain characters would act as each other's support, rival, motivation, object of envy, and mode of reconcile were all done...done well...believable...Well, I'm just particularly surprised at how well the main characters were fleshed out in what is only a thirteen episode show. This show didn't really go for the cute-factor so none of the girls were cute or likable because there was pretty much only one or two recurring girls in this show; the midget and the Geisha lady. This show was pretty much only about the two male leads only and what it so great about that is that both of them are actually likable (to me personally) and, again, relatable in one way or another. I can believe their dynamics. I can believe their doubt. I can believe their anger. Yada yada yada... They're just believable. Music: 5/10 Aside from that main jazz theme. There wasn't any real noticeable bgm in this show that clicked. This show was about Rakugo so the lack of interesting bgm can be easily overlooked. The jazz theme alone was enough to hype up certain scenes or add flair to others. The OP and ED were about average, didn't really invoke any deep feelings or help to add to the show's style. The sound design was neat at a few moments. There was some clever use of sound to add some impact and get a certain type of mood going, but nothing that would make this area a highlight. Plot: 6/10 Not much to say. I found the overall plot boring and standard. It's just the relationship between two men, how they push each other forward and how they go on with their lives. The twist with this show is that it's all about Rakugo. Please, if I see the word Rakugo one more time...Oh, there's a second season... Development: 10/10 This. The development hit all the marks that I was looking for to make me not find this show a bore. Can't really put it into words, but I just personally liked how the two MC dudes relationship developed and how the rest of the cast such as the kiddo, Geisha lady, and the various Masters did their part in developing both the MC's as individuals. I should write more here, but I can't bring what I want to say to mind. Conclusion: 6/10 An ending-setup for S2. Not really impressed with the conclusion. Did happen to answer some questions, conclude the Master's (white-hair'd dude now) story, and setup the story for the new kid. The fact that this was a blatant S2 ending setup sorta got on my nerves. At least just give it a proper open-ended ending at least even if S2 is a guaranteed happening. The ending was abrupt and left a bad taste in my mouth. Just my personal gripe. Personal Enjoyment: 7/10 I honestly dislike realistic, down-to-earth shows like this because I prefer watching wild, anime-esque fantasy...giant robots, cute girls, super powers, etc. Honestly surprised I liked this as much as I did. Overall: 8/10 Surprised at this myself. Thought it was going to be a bore. Character and story development were what really shined in this show and are what saved my opinion of it. Hype Factor: No hype moments. Lewd/Service Factor: Mature teasing. Other than that no lewd or service. Cute Factor: The midget kid was sorta cute, but only because that's just how anime works in regards to midgets. Zero cute factor. Artsy Factor: This is artsy. Good storytelling found here. Very interesting mode of conveying character feelings and development through Rakugo performances. Style Factor: Style != Artsy. Style more along the lines of unconventionality either in animation or storytelling. Some style found here, but not much. Standard recounting of past story. Action Factor: No action found here. Revised: 9-5-18 at 11:11 PST

Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu doesn't have the most unique premise, I'm sure you can find similar stuff in many places if you replace Rakugo with something else. However, just like it is in Rakugo, the way the story is presented can change everything. Story/Characters: 10 The storytelling of this show deserves every praise it gets, it just flows perfectly. Some episodes cover years whereas others are over in a day but you'll never feel like the pacing is off. Some recitals can take up half the episode but if they're left in, they're left in for good reason. It's not just the pace either, the storytelling has a real poetry feeling to it. The train enters a tunnel as two passengers' conversation grow dark, a flickering drop of water is shown on the teapot during a sad moment. It's impossible to not notice how much effort is put into the simplest things to amplify the story. All of the characters feel real and are developed masterfully throughout the show. I haven't felt so passionate about a show and its characters... ever! Sound: 10 Honestly, I'm one of those "young people who prefer movies to theater", but I found the dry Rakugo scenes very enjoyable which alone speaks volumes about the voice acting. The unique soundtrack of this show is also perfection to me. The tracks move between jazz and traditional seamlessly and match the mood of each scene. Art: 7 The art is the weakest point of the show. It's not bad, it's just a bit better than the generic modern animation. I feel like a more unique, traditional artstyle would suit the show. Also I really liked the decision of keeping the Rakugo scenes mostly dry with just changes in camera angles. If you haven't seen the show, Shouwa Rakugo now stands at the top of my recommendation list. That might not mean much since I'm fairly new to anime but trust me, this show is amazing! >> SPOILERS BELOW << Above is how I felt about the first 11 episodes. I was ready to give it a 10/10 without reservation but I hate the ending. This might not be how everyone feels but to me both MCs lost their minds during the last half of Episode 12. Their actions just felt so out of character. Since I loved the show, the way they handled the ending felt more heartbreaking than the characters' deaths. Sad to give this one a 9. First 11 episodes: Masterpiece (10) Overall: Great (9)

Although I doubt this review will be found helpful by anyone almost 2 years after airing, I had to share my opinion on it. It is a work of art, from start to finish. Seasons one and two. Everything about this show is amazing and awe inspiring. I have watched this show three times in its entirety, and every time I've watched it, I have admired it more. I can't say enough how much this show affects me, as almost every episode has me clutching my chest and saying aloud "this show is so good." When I first watched season 1, I gave it 9/10. When I re-watched it with someone, I found myself giving it a perfect score. Yes, the characters didn't do what I wanted them to, and yes, that was frustrating. However, they did exactly what they should have done to live up to each character's personality. I think that is a sign of truly masterful characterization. I hated each character at times, but in hindsight, everything they said and did made sense to who they were. And in hindsight, I loved each character in their own ways. This is not a story for people looking for action or something plot-driven. For those with patience, it is a work of art about the human condition, and is a beautiful display of emotion and drive in otherwise somewhat mundane characters and their lives. I do not praise shows lightly, but this is a one-of-a-kind type of anime. However, I can promise that if you have patience and empathy, this show will leave you thoroughly fulfilled. I don't know that any anime can ever compare to it in that sense, and I cannot think of a higher praise to give it.

"In a world overflowing with entertainment I want to create a path for Rakugo to survive" - Sukeroku Yuurakutei Story (9): The story is mostly about the lives of two great Rakugo performers, Sukeroku and Yakumo. We see them mature from children to adults as they learn to perform the art of Rakugo. But it is not only the characters that mature, but also their Rakugo. As the characters learn and develop, their Rakugo does too. The story had great pacing and felt quite realistic, it was really quite beautiful. Characters (9): The characters are really what make this anime fantastic. Our main characters are Yakumo and Sukeroku, who start off as two abandoned children who are learning Rakugo under the same master. Very quickly they become adults and start performing. As mentioned above, the characters are very developed and lovable. The relationship between our MC's was highly realistic, they love each other, then become frustrated with each other, have a fight and then go back to loving each other again. Sound (9): The music had quite a 'vintage' quality to it, which suited the anime very well. The music was likeable and the animation of the op and ed sequences was just amazing. The voice actors had the difficult job of voicing full Rakugo performances, which they managed to pull off amazingly. They also suited the roles of the characters well. Art (9): The artwork done by Studio Deen was very well done. As the voice actors had the difficult job of voicing the Rakugo performances, the studio had the difficult job of animating them and they also did a terrific job of that. The art was consistent, had a nice style and good detail. Overall Enjoyment (9): Overall I think that this anime was an incredible watch, it was really incredible in every category and I can't find any faults! If you loved the drama and friendship of animes like Nana you will be certain to enjoy this as well.

This is a story about storytelling through the lens of our storyteller. Through him we see one who struggles to fit in wherever he goes, he went with the flow wherever he goes, and got swept along by the cruelty of life. His encounters with kindred spirits along his journey shaped him, whether he liked it or not. This journey of his is filled with fleeting happiness, sorrow, longing, jealousy, and anger. Our storyteller isn't a perfect human, nor good nor bad simply not perfect as we all are. Our storyteller reminds us how humans whether it be us or those arounds us affects us from small to big in our lives, sometime these people we sorround ourselves with aren't "good" sometimes aren't "bad" but who are we to decide who is good nor bad? Our storyteller tells stories but does not judge, the only one he judges is himself. impeccable character drama, complex relationships both inter and intrapersonal, incredible music, subtle yet impactful cinematography. one of a lifetime experience

Tbh if the present-day sections weren't here, this could be a 10 and I wouldn't argue It starts with a double-length episode setting up a present-day scenario where a prisoner gets out and is allowed to be the apprentice of the relatively reclusive rakugo master Yakumo the 8th because he's a near-perfect copy of the ghost of Yakumo's past. And that was pretty engaging, I was excited to see how he advanced through the rakugo world, dealt with his own past as well as the past traumas of Yakumo as he fought to earn his keep. And that just... never happens? S2 is presumably where this content is going but between the first episode and last episode, there is a (relatively, given the entire series is like 25 episodes) very long flashback arc and by the time we get back to present day in the last episode of S1, there's a giant timeskip and it was disorienting and it left a sour taste in my mouth. But let's talk a bit about that flashback arc. It kinda comes out of nowhere (at least it did for me) at the beginning of E2 and I was kinda peeved that we went from Yotaro to some dweeb but as implied above, it was really engaging. I think the mark of a good series that is centered around some activity (whether that be some performing art like rakugo, some sport like basketball, or some other activity like, say, cosplaying or fighting games) is that after watching the series, you are more interested in checking out this activity in question. For example, I think soccer is boring. I tried watching it during the Olympics last year and I just flipped off it, desperate to find something more interesting. But after watching Blue Lock, I did kinda think about how cool it would to be in soccer. Going back to this series, I really liked the rakugo. I wouldn't call myself Mr. Rakugo Expert, I didn't even read Akane-banashi, but I thought it was very funny and you could see a lot of the stories tie into the lives of the storytellers involved, which I thought was nice. I would absolutely check out more rakugo given this series, so I think that is a very positive mark. One thing I was kind of worried about was how Konatsu's mom (iirc) was said to be a geisha during E1 and, well, there was only one plot-relevant geisha and she was kinda macking on the guy who wasn't Konatsu's baby daddy so I was very worried to see NTR ruin a good story but the way they went about that little snag was actually pretty reasonable. I thought the love triangle between Kiku, Sukeroku, and Miyokichi was done well. They all feel like fleshed out characters who had justifications for why the pieces fell the way they did. Even the 7th Gen Yakumo gets some good moments to have his character be fleshed out and we get flashes of an intriguing 7th Gen struggle, showing a repeating cycle of trauma that continues to some degree into present day. If this was just the flashback arc, I'd probably give it a strong 9 or a 10. The rakugo was funny, engaging, and tied into the plot, the characters were fleshed out and had realistic developments, it was a gripping drama. But unfortunately, the second half of the last episode not only goes back to present day but kind of throws a lot of things out the window for me. Once we get back to present day, we do not see Yotaro's struggle to gain 8th Yakumo's praise because he's already a shin'uchi. Any hints of romance between Yotaro and Konatsu are kinda dampened by him calling her "Sis" and her being knocked up by some stray mutt. Yotaro does try to step up in the dad's place (not that Konatsu plans to reciprocate as of the end of S1) but, like, I really do not like this new development and I don't see how they could possibly make this a good plot point. Yotaro offering to step up as dad is cute and a Cool Guy moment but the timeskip going straight into this kinda takes out all the oomph. I don't give a shit about Yotaro. I barely give a shit about Konatsu. The one-two whammy of a long flashback arc where they are not featured and a timeskip skipping all the interesting character development when they DO come back killed any heat the first episode gave them. Tbh, S2 is higher rated so maybe I'm just dooming and it'll be all peaches and cream, the author managed to make a plot point I was dreading actually pretty good, but the present day stuff is kinda blah. Do I think you should watch this? Yes, the flashback arc is the vast majority and it is fantastic. I'm just not sold on the present day part.

Passion -- it is something that drives up human ambition. Since time immemorial, passion is what has allowed humans to pursue dreams in hopes of finding themselves a place in this world. It has allowed human creativity to flourish and evolve over time, changing what would've been a very monotonous world into something that been colored with countless artists of the past. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a very touching, realistic drama on the nature of passion. It attempts to twist, question, and deliver how such a small thing can change the lives of people forever. When you are bound by your passion, can you make room for others to enter in your life and set it aside? This anime is a masterpiece that delves deep into the intricate complexities of passion and its profound impact on the human experience. Set against the backdrop of the traditional Japanese art of rakugo storytelling, this anime takes viewers on a poignant journey through the lives of its characters, exploring themes of love, ambition, sacrifice, and of course, family. At its core, Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a deeply human story, resonating with authenticity and emotional depth. Through its compelling narrative and richly developed characters, the anime explores the struggles and triumphs of aspiring rakugo performers in post-war Japan. It deftly navigates the delicate balance between personal ambition and the desire for connection, posing thought-provoking questions about the nature of passion and its consequences. One of the anime's greatest strengths lies in its ability to capture the essence of rakugo as an art form, immersing viewers in its captivating performances and intricate storytelling techniques. The meticulous attention to detail in the animation and voice acting brings each rakugo performance to life, evoking a sense of intimacy and reverence for this traditional art. From Akira Ishida's portrayal of Kikuhiko, who starts off as a newbie to a professional, to Koichi Yamadera's Sukeroku, you can almost feel like they themselves are natural rakugo performers. Moreover, Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is not merely a story about rakugo; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. Through its nuanced portrayal of characters grappling with their desires, fears, and regrets, the anime offers profound insights into the complexities of the human psyche. It challenges viewers to confront their own passions and consider the sacrifices necessary to pursue their passions and dreams. In addition to its compelling narrative and thematic depth, Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu boasts stunning visuals and a hauntingly, if not melancholic, beautiful soundtrack that enhance the overall viewing experience. The animation captures the subtleties of emotion with precision, while the music sets the tone for each scene, evoking a range of emotions from melancholy to euphoria. Overall, Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a poignant and thought-provoking anime that transcends the boundaries of its genre. With its masterful storytelling, rich character development, and profound thematic exploration, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion and the human spirit. For those who are seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable viewing experience, this anime is not to be missed.

Before watching Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu I wasn’t aware of the beautiful art form that Rakugo is, for those unaware, Rakugo is a one-man show where a performer tells classic stories (of comedy, horror, romance, you name it) where they portray several characters with the only help of their skills and maybe a hand fan. SGRS tells the life story of Kikuhiko an aspiring Rakugo performer who doesn’t really want to do Rakugo because he prefers to dance but he couldn’t dance anymore as he had an accident. In his misadventure, he becomes the apprentice of a renowned Rakugo performer along with another student called Shin. Both Kiku and Shin are like oil and water but they get along pretty well and the story will revolve mostly around their developments as Rakugo performers and their relationship. In a way is a tale of love, for what you love and the people you love, to learn how to love and the parts in between, like being in love with a person that won’t be loving you. It has great pacing overall, every chapter was engaging and the only real issue I can find was at the very beginning and end of the show as there is a character shift that is way too violent for the narrative’s own good as we have to be invested in characters that weren’t that plot-heavy for the story, but it isn’t the greatest of problems so it can be overlooked with some time. The narrative does an excellent job foreshadowing themes with its Rakugo stories that not only made sense in the particular episode they appear in but to the overall narrative, it is truly exquisite. Watching SGRS made me realize the impact it has made in Japanese media like anime, movies, or even comedy, thanks to it I now understand a little bit more were some of the comedy of shows like Osomatsu-San come from. SGRs has a lot to offer for anyone who can give it 2 minutes of their time, it sure it’s a treasure that I didn’t know existed.

[spoiler free kinda] showa genroku rakugo shinju, ive been having heaps of reccomendations for this anime and it did not dissapoint. there is a certain charm to it in the way it tells a story. unique and interesting characters, great voice actors. the scenes of them doing rakugo is where the VAs truly shine and the unique parallels between the two main characters, the progression of their friendship and rivalry as well as the bittersweet traumatic conclusion. but what is rakugo? A 400 year old tradition of comic monologue storytelling in Japan. A minimalistic performing art, rakugo features a lone storyteller dressed in a kimono. i guess this was how the japanese people find entertainment when there was no such thing as animes or tv shows, i actually found the rakugo quite interesting and i can imagine how hard it is if i were to do it myself. even though we know the tragedy that happened to sukeroku in the first episode, it still hit hard because of the time we spent with him and yakumo through the series. i was too hooked and finished it in like 2 or 3 days,you might want to check it out if the anime might be for you, i also forgot to mention how good the music was and how it fits the scenes in the anime

THIS IS A SPOILER-FREE REVIEW, LIKE ALL REVIEWS SHOULD BE! I vividly remember reaching a point in my anime marathon that i couldn't seem to get a show that could grab my attention and keep it still for more than 3 episodes. Maybe it was because i had watched a ton of different titles in a relatively short span of time, but i had enjoyed a great deal of them, nonetheless. So while searching for an eye-catching title to invest my valuable time in, I inevitably stumbled upon a rustic but colorful poster of Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinju, an anime not many people seem to talk about. However, judging from its high user rating, one thing was certain, This show was held in high regards by its viewers. And so i hopped on, with little to no knowledge of what it had in store for me. To summarize my experience in one word : BREATHTAKING. This is a story that spans decades, and while doing so, it touches upon various themes, including but not limited to - WAR, GLOBALIZATION, INDUSTRALIZATION, GENERATIONAL GAP, FRIENDSHIP, UPBRINGING, AMBITION, TRADITIONAL AUTHENTICITY vs MODERN CULTURAL SHIFTS. And while these complicated words seem to suggest that this show might not be for everyone, that notion couldn't be further from the truth. Rakugo Shinju is, well, about Rakugo(duh!). But for an international viewer like myself, The word itself may hold very little significance. Rakugo is a live sitcom, where every character is played by the same person. To put it more traditionally - An authentic & ancient art of storytelling of Japanese-origin. However, to expect an expositional onslaught from the get-go about this culturally engrained Japanese verbal artform would be very wrong of the viewer. The first episode is indeed an hour long, and while it greatly differs from what you'll end up seeing in the entirety of the series, just like a Hanashika(storyteller) setting up his Koza(stage), the first episode sets the stage for the events that are to come. The way the story unfolds in front of your eyes keeps you glued to your seats. No, there aren't any high octane action sequences or long philosophical dialogues, rather Rakugo Shinju binds its viewers with its nuanced authenticity, realistic character development, engaging plot progression and an OST that could calm a raging bull. The show is authentic to the T, showcasing the rise, fall and apparent rebirth of the artform in a way that keeps the viewer intrigued. Its a history lesson indeed, but one taught with benevolence and patience. The diverse cast of characters in Rakugo Shinju add the varietal spice to this beautiful tale. The characters feel very human, unlike the extremely animated ones an avid anime watcher is prone to be greeted by on your average run of the mill slice of life show. They are intricately detailed in their behaviors, they have flaws they can't seem to accept and complex emotions which they can't begin to untangle. Their interactions with one-another are what gives Rakugo Shinju its magic flair. Then there are the Rakugo performances themselves, which are super-entertaining. The voice actors really do justice to their character's styles and fashion. While i cannot vouch for their historical authenticity and relevancy, one thing's for certain, if the anime's purpose was to make its viewers fall in love with and in admiration of Rakugo as an artform, it has achieved so with flying colors. Then comes my favorite part, the OST. The soundtrack is pure bliss. And it moves forward as the plot moves. There are elements of early 50's Jazz, 70's Jazz fusion and classical Japanese music, a blend that brews a blissful aural experience that enhances the royal rustic feel of the show. The animation too is good. Studio Deen does a fantastic job of creating a proper visual representation that a show like this deserves. It has a certain sheen, a polish or gradient to it that feels original and yet very nostalgic. While i personally feel the art direction, composition and direction in general could have been much better, and certain parts of the story seem rushed, all in all, everyone involved has done a truly remarkable and commendable job. I highly recommend watching Rakugo Shinju if you've watched some slice of life anime prior, and would go on to say its a must for every anime connoisseur out there. It is truly an inspiring story, one of growth, of fighting one's inner demons and finding oneself in a mist of uncertainty. Its a story about the uncertainty of life and the regrets that haunt us till the day we die. And finally, at it's heart, its a story about a great tradition fading into obscurity in the modern world and how that seems to affect the lives of those involved in it. The story of then, now and then. 8.3/10 - A true testament to the power of anime as a tool of storytelling to bring generations' together.

The entire series is one long flashback. I hate this specific narrative device just as much now as when i first encountered it in Tenjou Tenge, but I like this series despite the way it cucks you in the beginning. Give it a go, just don't expect to get to know the guy you first think is the main character, he's actually a side character. This would be my complaint; you don't get to know anything about him, he might as well be a piece of smiling cardboard. His achievements alienate me somewhat from him, because the rest of the series continue to point out the stagering amount of work his predecessors had to put in to become good at what they do, and then he just *magicaly* achieves their level without any noticable struggle. We don't get to see him practicing or failing or doing anything remotely characterbuilding. And this makes me fear the second season. If it turns him into the main character, then i fear i'll be let down because the first season spent all of it's time on a different set of characters. The art is decent, the characters are very lovable, and the story is mostly believable. It's a 7 approaching 8. Worth watching.

This is a show I WISH got more recognition. Listen, I actually had to give the first episode a few goes myself. It's a slow, forty-minute start to one of the best character-driven dramas I've ever seen. Due to this unfortunate beginning, it's been kind of overlooked which really is a shame because it's fantastic once you get into the backstory. (That of which takes up the remaining part of the anime's run time.) The characters are all dynamic, they're all flawed in some way or another. I especially enjoyed Kikuhiko's and Sukeroku's relationship, it was very complex and interesting and it made my heart hurt. Their road to fame in the rakugo world was one that I found compelling as hell- despite still not fully knowing what rakugou actually is hahaha. Likes; the animation is lovely, the characters are great, the story is fresh and different, THE OPENING Dislikes; the first episode was a bit slow and confusing, I think even more of Kikuhiko's past could have been covered in the show-perhaps even going into season 2. It's a mature and compelling watch that is very dear to my heart.