Yuriko Yoshitaka stars in the NHK Taiga drama "To Dear Radiance (Hikaru Kimi e)" (General TV, Sunday 8pm and others). The drama has only the final episode, "Beyond the Story," to air, but there is no doubt that many great performances and memorable scenes by the unique cast have been created over the past year. Here, I would like to trace the footsteps (achievements) of Fujiwara no Sanesuke, who values justice and reason, and the role of Ryuji Akiyama of the comedy trio "Robert."
◇At first, the dark coloring, which was unusual for a Heian aristocrat, became a topic of conversation.
Fujiwara no Sanesuke was the head of the Fujiwara no Ononomiya lineage. He was a senior to Michinaga, and was knowledgeable about court etiquette and ceremonial customs. Although he was knowledgeable, he also had a proud and stubborn side to him. However, in the world of politics, he was the most sensible person, and showed a certain degree of understanding for Michinaga's actions, and continued to be a "conscience" that was not swayed by personal calculations of profit and loss.
This was Akiyama's first appearance in a taiga drama. At first, his dark complexion, unusual for a Heian aristocrat, was a good joke among viewers, and just by appearing, he provided "laughter" that warmed people's hearts. There is no denying that there was always a sense of humor in the scenes in which Akiyama appeared, such as the "diary skit" (his wife repeatedly told him to "write it in his diary"), which cleverly incorporated the historical facts of Sanesuke, who left behind the "Koyuki" diary.
On the other hand, everyone recognizes his high level of acting ability, and he was not cast solely for that purpose. Just like Sanesuke, who played an important role in the political maneuvering and human relationships within the court, Akiyama's presence seems to have increased, especially as the drama approaches its climax. What do you think?
◇Freely move between tension and relaxation
The humor of the exchange in episode 43, "After the Shine," in which Sanesuke, who was trusted by Emperor Sanjo, tried to persuade Michinaga, who was urging him to abdicate, but was defeated in argument, is a "flavor" that only Akiyama, who has been active in the world of comedy for a long time, could provide. Also, the scene in episode 47, "Even if it is sad," in which Sanesuke, the only one who disagreed with the other nobles, saying "It should not happen!" regarding the awards given to Takaie and his friends who succeeded in repelling the Toi, was also very realistic.
Akiyama-san showed great performance beyond the realm of "comedy relief" with her acting that freely switches between tension and relaxation. Looking back, more than a year and a half ago, the screenwriter Oishi Shizuka nominated her as "the cast member I've always wanted!", but she said, "I'm worried that I'll end up looking like a comedy character," but it goes without saying that her fears were unfounded.
The final episode of "To Dear Radiance (Hikaru Kimi e) Identity", "Beyond the Story", will be broadcast on December 15th with an extended 15 minutes.
