Even after having risen to the utmost rank of shin'uchi, Yotarou struggles to find his own identity in the world of rakugo. Caught between his master's teachings and the late Sukeroku's unique style, his performance lacks an important ingredient—ego. And while his popularity packs the theaters, he is but one of the few; rakugo is under threat of being eclipsed.
Meanwhile Yakumo, regarded by many as the last bastion of preserving the popularity of rakugo, struggles to cope with his elderly state. Even though his performances are still stellar, he fears that he is nearing his limits. His doubts grow stronger as an old friend creeps ever closer. Konatsu, for her part, attempts to raise her son as a single mother, which Yotarou is heavily opposed to. Instead, he seeks to persuade her to marry him and in turn raise her son as his own.
In Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-hen, the curtains fall on Yotarou and Yakumo's story, tasked with restoring the near-obsolete art form as well as overcoming their internal conflicts.
Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-hen Review – A Riveting Tale of Redemption!
The storyline of Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-hen, functions as the captivating second half to the Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu anime series, hence the ‘Sukeroku Futatabi-hen’ moniker. The story continues to explore the fine art of Rakugo, a form of Japanese spoken entertainment, and follows Yotarou, a former yakuza and ex-convict, who is looking to reestablish his life through Rakugo, under the tutelage of Yakumo, a masterful and revered Rakugo storyteller.
Our story takes a deep dive into the demanding world of Rakugo while simultaneously portraying Yotarou’s personal redemption journey. We witness his struggles and triumphs in learning the art and carrying on the legacy. This season also addresses the essence and survival of Rakugo in a modern world that seems to slowly forget its essence, adding another layer to this beautifully woven tale. Sukeroku’s character also features prominently in this season, hence ‘Sukeroku Futatabi-hen’. Without giving too much away, expect to see a breath-taking blend of drama, art, and lessons about life, failure and success, and the enduring spirit of humanity.
The Rakugo, Redemption, and Relationships
Sukeroku Futatabi-hen expertly delves deeper into the art form of Rakugo, giving the audience a glimpse into the intricacies and nuances of this classical form of storytelling. The anime doesn’t just exhibit Rakugo performances, but also meditates on the significance and value of the art, providing intriguing philosophical reflections on the art’s existential angst in the modern world. It is these reflections that make Sukeroku Futatabi-hen transcend beyond the status of an ordinary anime.
Redemption and Character Development
Yotarou’s journey from an erstwhile Yakuza to a Rakugo artist forms the core of Sukeroku Futatabi-hen, making it a deeply personal and emotional journey. His evolution as a character is phenomenal, and the series does a great job of gradually building his redemption arc. Yotarou’s constant struggle and his determination to change his life through Rakugo is absolutely inspiring.
Magic of Art and Animation
Studio Deen’s work with the art and animation in the series is beyond impressive. The character designs are striking, and the Rakugo performances are beautifully animated, making you feel as if you are present in the room. The animation boasts specific attention to detail, that I’m sure will leave any anime-lover in utter amazement.
Should you Stream, Rent, or Buy?
Sukeroku Futatabi-hen isn’t just an anime; it’s an experience. This masterpiece plays on the heartstrings with its carefully crafted plot, relatable characters, and beautiful depiction of a traditional art form. If you’ve got an interest in cultural storytelling forms or just love reveling in well-drawn characters’ depth, this anime is well worth your time. I’d recommend streaming the entire Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu series. But if you’ve got a special place in your heart for great art and elaborate storytelling, I’d say this is a buy.
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