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Asura: Everything we know About Kore-eda’s new Family Drama Series
The much-anticipated Netflix series Asura is set to bring a timeless Japanese family drama to a new generation. Directed by the legendary Kore-eda Hirokazu, this show is his second collaboration with the streaming giant, following his acclaimed The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House.
Asura takes a fresh approach to the classic 1979 family drama, Like Asura, originally based on a novel by Mukoda Kuniko, which has been a cornerstone of Japanese television for decades. In a thrilling new development, the official trailer for Asura has just been released, giving fans a glimpse of the emotional journey and dynamic performances to expect from this powerful series.
Kore-eda’s unique touch promises to explore the intricate layers of family dynamics and personal growth, with an emphasis on the independence and complexity of women—a theme that adds a contemporary twist to the series’ original premise.
Curious about what makes Asura such a captivating watch? Stay tuned as we break down everything you need to know about the show—from cast and production insights to exclusive details about what’s in store. We’ll continue to update this with all the latest news and updates, so keep reading to be the first to uncover all the exciting details!
Release date & Where to Watch
The seven-episode Asura series will be available for global streaming starting Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, exclusively on Netflix.
What is the plot of Asura?
Set in 1979, Asura follows the lives of four sisters— ikebana teacher Tsunako (Rie Miyazawa), housewife Makiko (Machiko Ono), librarian Takiko (Yu Aoi) and waitress Sakiko (Suzu Hirose) — who reunite one winter day. Their lives are shaken when Takiko suspects their aging father, Kotaro, has a secret lover and child. Although the other sisters find this hard to believe, they agree to keep it from their mother, Fuji.
This revelation uncovers deep-rooted conflicts and hidden secrets, stirring tensions and emotional turmoil within the family. As the women navigate their differing views on love and life, their journey reflects both personal growth and intense clashes, resonating with universal family dynamics.
Kore-eda reflects on the project in the interview with Tudum, “What makes Kuniko Mukoda’s dramas so rich are the superficial poison exchanged in conversation and the love hidden behind those cruel words. The four actors playing the sisters understand this well, so the series was very enjoyable to shoot.”
This deep emotional complexity, paired with a talented cast and crew, promises an engaging drama that resonates across cultures.
Who’s in the cast of Asura?
- Rie Miyazawa as Tsunako
- Machiko Ono as Makiko
- Yû Aoi as Takiko
- Suzu Hirose as Sakiko
Is There a Trailer for Asura?
The Asura trailer teases a deeply emotional family drama about four sisters. Tension builds as sharp, heartfelt exchanges reveal the complexities of their relationships. The powerful performances, atmospheric cinematography, and evocative music create a gripping preview, leaving viewers eager to see more.
Watch a sneak peek from the opening sequence here.
Behind the Scenes
The new series Asura, directed and written by Hirokazu Kore-eda, is based on the work of Kuniko Mukoda, a renowned playwright known for her complex, layered dramas. Kore-eda, who won the Palme d’Or at Cannes for Shoplifters, brings his expertise in family dynamics to this project, which features a universal exploration of relationships and emotional depth.
The series, developed and produced by Yasuo Yagi, showcases Mukoda’s Like Asura as a pivotal part of her legacy. The production is a collaboration between Bunbuku and Netflix, with music composed by Fox Capture Plan and cinematography by Takimoto Mikiya.
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