2024-07-27T16:13:00+08:00
The idea of a man getting pregnant may seem fantastical, but it has become a reality in Japanese dramas. The series “Hiyama Kentaro’s Pregnancy” has brought a sense of relief to many viewers outside Japan. However, as a formidable competitor in the Asian film and television industry, South Korea has been monitoring this drama since its debut.
Recently, Korean media commented on “Hiyama Kentaro’s Pregnancy,” stating that “Japanese dramas lag behind Korean dramas, and their implausible premises are even more absurd than melodramas.” They noted that as Korean dramas gain global recognition, the Japanese film and television industry is increasingly feeling a sense of urgency about its own competitive disadvantage.
(Image source: INSIGHT screenshot)
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Analyses from Japan suggest that the lack of worldwide appeal for local TV dramas stems from outdated storylines and exaggerated performances by actors. In this context, a drama with an unconventional narrative has captured attention. The eight-episode series “Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy” premiered on Netflix in 2022.
(Photo source: IG@netflixjp)
Recently, “Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy” has once again drawn attention on Korean online platforms. The drama’s shocking premise is that the male lead is pregnant. It is adapted from the manga of the same name by Eri Sakai. Fifty years have passed since the first public case of male pregnancy. The protagonist “Kentaro Hiyama” (played by Takumi Saito) is a successful advertising creative whose personal life is in turmoil. He is unattached and labeled an “alpha male.” Initially, he harbors negative feelings towards male pregnancy, believing it would hinder his career. However, after fainting at work and being hospitalized, he discovers that he is pregnant. The resulting health and physical changes due to pregnancy begin to impact his job, leading him to reveal his condition to his partner Aki Seto (played by Juri Ueno). “Pregnant man” Kentaro confronts societal prejudices and a range of novel challenges such as morning sickness, lactation, and single parenthood.
Given that the subject of male pregnancy is quite original, the series includes scenes showing Kentaro undergoing an ultrasound, using a pregnancy test, and giving birth, which surprised many viewers and sparked various opinions. Some praised the series, commenting, “The story is innovative,” “It seems like a show that conveys social messages,” and “It’s very engaging.” Others critiqued it, saying, “It’s really odd,” and “It feels uncomfortable,” among other remarks.
In a media interview, renowned Japanese cartoonist Sakai Manri, the creator of the original manga, stated, “I wanted to create a work that challenges common perceptions. My editor encouraged me to address gender issues, and the concept I proposed was male pregnancy. Personally, I find pregnancy and childbirth more daunting than parenting itself, so I have always wished for both men and women to have the ability to conceive.”
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Further reading
Japanese dramas have recently made waves with their audacious storytelling, particularly with the release of “Hiyama Kentaro’s Pregnancy”. This series, which explores the fantastical concept of male pregnancy, presents a departure from traditional narratives in Asian television. As Korean dramas continue to dominate the global stage, their influence casts a shadow over Japanese productions, prompting evaluations of storytelling quality and audience engagement.
The Phenomenon of Male Pregnancy in Dramas
The premise of male pregnancy is itself revolutionary, challenging gender norms and societal expectations. ＜strong>“Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy”, adapted from Eri Sakai’s manga, focuses on a male protagonist who unexpectedly finds himself pregnant, navigating a world fraught with biases and personal struggles. This unique angle has piqued global interest, especially in markets like South Korea, where discussions surrounding the series have intensified.
Cultural Responses and Critical Reception
Korean media recently highlighted the show, using it as a reference to illustrate perceived shortcomings in Japanese dramas. Analysts argue that Japanese shows often rely on outdated tropes and exaggerated performances, which can fail to resonate with international audiences. The response to “Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy” has been mixed, with some praising its originality while others find its premise bewildering.
Synopsis of “Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy”
The show, consisting of eight episodes, premiered on Netflix in 2022. It follows Kentaro Hiyama, an advertising creative designer portrayed by Takumi Saito. As a successful alpha male with a chaotic lifestyle, Kentaro’s belief in traditional masculinity is challenged when he discovers he is pregnant after fainting at work.
Key Themes Explored
- Challenging Gender Norms: The series invites viewers to rethink traditional views on gender and pregnancy.
- Societal Prejudices: Kentaro’s journey addresses various societal expectations and biases related to male pregnancy.
- Personal Growth: The character evolves through his experiences, showcasing resilience amid adversity.
The Impact on Viewers
The portrayal of male pregnancy raises questions about parenthood and societal roles. As Kentaro undergoes physical and emotional changes, viewers witness his vulnerability, which complicates the stereotypical portrayal of masculinity. Reactions to this groundbreaking subject have been polarized:
Viewer Reactions
- Positive Feedback: Some viewers appreciate the novel storyline, remarking on its potential for social commentary and deep emotional exploration.
- Negative Feedback: Others critique the concept as “strange” and “awkward”, finding it hard to reconcile with reality.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Vision
The original manga’s creator, Sakai Manri, aimed to “subvert common sense” with their work. During media interviews, Sakai expressed a desire to explore gender issues and the fears surrounding pregnancy and parenthood from a male perspective. This creative intent echoes a broader cultural movement towards inclusivity and diversity in storytelling.
Korean Media’s Perspective
The response from Korean media has been particularly critical. As Korean dramas have gained international acclaim, there is a growing assertion that Japanese dramas must evolve to remain relevant. The sentiment reflects a broader concerns about Japan’s competitive edge in the global entertainment industry.
The Future of Asian Dramas
As the line between genres continues to blur and traditional storytelling methods are challenged, both Korean and Japanese dramas face the need to adapt. The success of “Kentaro Hiyama’s Pregnancy” may well influence the direction of future productions, not just in Japan but across Asia.
Further Reading
- Explore more unique storylines in Asian dramas
- Comparing Japanese and Korean drama trends in 2024
- Insights into gender representations in Asian cinema
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