Joshiraku OVA review: A thorough evaluation of the bonus features included with the limited edition of volume 5

Joshiraku OVA Review and More Information

overview

"Joshiraku" is an anime based on the popular manga by Koji Kumeta and illustrated by Yasu, and the OVA version was included on the DVD included with the limited edition of "Joshiraku Volume 5" released on February 8, 2013. This OVA is a comedy about the daily lives of female rakugo performers, and consists of one 30-minute episode. It was produced by JCSTAFF and directed by Tsutomu Mizushima.

story

The OVA of "Joshiraku" is an animated version of the original story, depicting the daily lives of female rakugo performers in a humorous way. Each of the women has a unique character, and they cause all kinds of trouble in the world of rakugo. The OVA includes three episodes, "Tainashiya," "Sankenhonya," and "Bikkuri Shudo," and you can enjoy their unique interactions and the laughter that can only be found in the world of rakugo.

character

The charm of "Joshiraku" is undoubtedly its unique characters. The main characters are introduced below.

Haroukitei Kigurumi

Voice actor: Kotori Koiwai

She is a petite female Rakugo performer who wears a pink kimono and has a cheerful personality. People around her call her "Kigu-chan" and she likes cute things, but she also has a dark side, such as when she clicks her tongue in her heart. She keeps a dog.

Bohatei Tetori

Voice actor: Nozomi Yamamoto

She is a female Rakugo performer who is easygoing and considerate of those around her, and is good at both the funny and tsukkomi roles. While she plays a role in keeping everyone from going out of control, she also has good luck and does things at her own pace. She has a constitution that doesn't make her fat even if she eats a lot.

Buratei Marii

Voice actor: Sakura Ayane

She is called "Marie-san" and is a female Rakugo performer who speaks in a masculine Edo dialect. She is the facilitator and straight man, and has a showy and easy-going personality. She is tone-deaf and has a complex about it, and is not good at feminine mannerisms. The people she respects are her parents.

Kuryuu Miyutei Marukyo

Voice actor: Yoshino Nanjo

She is a cool female Rakugo performer who wears square glasses and is known for her cynical remarks. She sometimes stirs up trouble with her unexpected proposals, and becomes violent when angry. Although she is in debt, she is confident in her singing. She is childhood friends with Tetora.

Anrakutei Kukuru

Voice actor: Goto Saori

A female Rakugo performer with long, straight black hair, split into two bangs. She has a gloomy, emotionally unstable personality and often makes self-deprecating remarks. She has a rich imagination and is the only one to embody a phantom pregnancy. Her mother is missing.

staff

The Joshiraku OVA was produced by the following staff:

• Original author: Koji Kumeta
• Manga: Yasu
• Director: Tsutomu Mizushima
• Series Composition: Michiko Yokote
• Character design: Masayoshi Tanaka
• Supervisor: Shinpei Hayashiya
• Sound Director: Miwa Iwanami
• Music Production: Starchild Records
• Animation production: JCSTAFF
• Produced by: Women's Rakugo Association
• Publisher: Kodansha "Bessatsu Shonen Magazine"

Theme songs and music

The theme songs and music for the OVA are as follows:

Opening Theme

"I hope you enjoy the rest of the meal!"

• Lyricist: Aki Hata
• Composer: Akira Kamisaki
• Arrangement: Akira Kamisaki
• Song: Goku♨Rakujokai

Ending Theme

"One Hundred Scenes of Japanese Smiles"

• Lyricist: Kenichi Maeyamada
• Composer: Kenichi Maeyamada
• Arrangement: Kenichi Maeyamada
• Sung by: Momokurotei Ichimon

Evaluation and Impressions

The OVA of "Joshiraku" is an animated version that preserves the charm of the original work, and you can enjoy the humorous exchanges between the unique characters. In particular, the individuality of each character stands out, and their dialogue and the laughter that is unique to the world of rakugo are plentiful. Three episodes are packed into a short 30-minute time frame, making it a very worthwhile watch.

Director Tsutomu Mizushima has faithfully recreated the atmosphere of the original work by meticulously depicting the movements and expressions of the characters. Also, don't miss the beautiful visuals by character designer Masayoshi Tanaka. Sound director Yoshikazu Iwanami's voice direction is also excellent, and the performances of the voice actors for each character add excitement to the work.

The theme songs also match the atmosphere of the work, with the opening song "Thank you for your support..." being a bright and cheerful tune, and the ending song "One Hundred Views of Japanese Smiles" creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. These songs are also important elements that enhance the appeal of the work.

Recommended points

The Joshiraku OVA can be recommended for the following reasons:

• Enjoy the humorous exchanges between unique characters
• Full of laughs unique to the world of Rakugo
• Three episodes are packed into the short 30-minute time slot.
• A careful production that shows the director and staff's dedication
• Beautiful character design and voice acting
• The theme song matches the atmosphere of the film

Related information

The Joshiraku OVA is included on the DVD that comes with the Limited Edition of Joshiraku Volume 5, which was released on February 8, 2013. It can be purchased from Kodansha. The original manga is also serialized in Bessatsu Shonen Magazine and is available in book form. Information and the latest news on the anime version can be found on the official website and official Twitter account.

Conclusion

The OVA of "Joshiraku" is an animated version that preserves the charm of the original work, allowing you to enjoy the humorous exchanges between the unique characters and the laughter that can only be found in the world of rakugo. Don't miss the careful production that shows the director and staff's attention to detail, the beautiful character designs, the voice acting, and the theme song that matches the atmosphere of the work. Please give it a watch.