Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a delightful tale, mostly made as wonderful it is by the excellent, dynamic relationship forged between lead characters. The way that the timid and tidy Bon Kikuhiko is at odds with the loud and carefree Shin Hatsutaro helps drive much of the story forward. Their conflicts go a long way to developing their distinct personalities and makes for viewing ranging from side-splittingly funny to tear-jerking. At its simplest explanation, we follow the story of these two men aiming to perfect their Rakugo – the centuries-old art of delivering a story from seated (‘seiza’) position. What makes the anime something memorable however is that it’s not only about Bon and Shin trying to master their craft, but using it to help overcome their own fears and push aside the elements of their life they refuse to face. The beauty of the story is that it accomplishes so much with ease. It even goes out of its way to give commentary on the role that Rakugo has in people’s lives and the gradual decline of the Rakugo industry. These ideas are all woven seamlessly into a wonderful story that wouldn’t feel out of place as a Rakugo piece of its own.
I can’t remember the last time I was so invested in a character relationship as I was between Bon and Shin. Their disgust at the way the other one approaches the world of Rakugo is at odds with an admiration they have for parts of the other person’s personality they feel like they are missing from their own lives. Shin has a natural talent for Rakugo though his methods go against the style that’s popular with the institution. Bon struggles to make a presence on stage and though he maintains a prim and proper approach, he can’t help but feel he’s being left behind. This relationship is packed with a tonne of grey areas and feels like it could break apart or bond closer at any moment. It’s gripping. When romance eventually weaves its way into their lives then the strain takes the story to a whole new level. If you’re a lover of multi-dimensional characters, then our lead two performers will leave you wanting more. A big thumbs up to Bon (Akira Ishida) and Shin’s (Kouichi Yamadera) VA’s who were superb.
Everything Studio DEEN have done in the animation and character design department has been superb. An earthly colour tone makes it feel somewhat like a period piece. Everything has this feeling of being subdued and grounded. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu actually feels like an artwork. Characters have a distinct smirk you’ll quickly come to love or a pained look that you can’t help but empathise with. Animation goes a long way to making Bon and Shin’s performances so entertaining. Very little is lost in translation because their faces manage to convey so much. DEEN aren’t even afraid to put animation towards larger crowds and busy scenes every now. It all feels like a labour of love. This is a true redemption moment for a studio that has become the butt of many jokes over the years, particularly in the animation department.
Smooth jazz, melancholic strings and tender piano songs are never at odds with one another in a beautiful audio package here. They work in harmony to help drive home the comedy or chip away at your heart, but it’s never overwrought. Memorable melodies are to be found everywhere. A massive thank you to composer Kana Shibue for making a stunning debut in the anime industry with a score that manages to play a crucial role in making Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu as memorable as it is.
The less you know about Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu the better the experience will be. A tale of two men fighting to rise to the top in a dying art is enthralling and magical. It’s a complete package from the art to the voice acting to the music and of course a top-notch story.
