Monthly Cycles and Sexuality: Key Questions in Tora ni Tsubasa That Are Gaining Attention

Since its broadcast began, the NHK serial drama “Tora ni Tsubasa” has recorded a household viewership rating of 18% for the second time, and its momentum shows no signs of stopping. If it continues this way, surpassing 20% is imminent. Achieving this would mark a significant milestone, being the first such accomplishment since “Yell” aired in the first half of 2020.

The drama tells the story of a heroine overcoming difficulties to achieve success, and the secret to its popularity lies in the outstanding performance of lead actress Sairi Ito. Additionally, the unique performances of the supporting cast contribute to its appeal.

In terms of direction, the drama features scenes that were previously rare in morning dramas, such as the heroine struggling with menstrual pain described as the moon’s issue and elements reminiscent of Boys’ Love. These elements keep viewers eagerly anticipating each new episode with excitement.

However, the more engrossed viewers become in the drama, the more they notice the finer details. One such aspect is historical accuracy.

“Television enthusiasts can not only record shows but also watch their favorite programs repeatedly through catch-up services, making them more attentive to unnatural scenes. As a result, recent dramas, except for science fiction or comedy, tend to have well-researched historical accuracy, leaving fewer points to criticize.

For example, ‘Inappropriate to the Extreme!’ (TBS) from the previous season featured a time-leap story between the Showa era and the present day, and it was praised for its accurate recreation of sets, fashion, and language from the era” (TV magazine writer).

Regarding morning dramas specifically, the critique for “Natsuzora,” aired in the first half of 2019, was focused on Nanako Matsushima’s beauty.

“It’s not about having a beautiful face or anything like that; it’s about the fact that her skin is always white and smooth, and her hands are also white and beautiful. The makeup is done meticulously, which led to discussions such as, ‘A woman who married into a farm in Hokkaido shortly after the war wouldn’t have such pristine skin.’ In a harsh, cold environment where she would be taking care of cows and horses daily, her face and hands would likely be rough and tanned.

Viewers apparently contacted NHK, questioning how such beautifully maintained skin could be realistic in an era without modern skincare products or hand creams” (national newspaper reporter).

A director involved in drama production for commercial broadcasters explains the situation.

“Some actors seek realism, while others, wanting to preserve their image, might avoid dirty or unkempt makeup. If it doesn’t affect the drama’s direction, there’s not much emphasis on those details.”

According to the TV magazine writer mentioned earlier, viewers have pointed out issues with the costumes in “Tora ni Tsubasa”.

“Especially during the wartime and post-war periods. Numerous soldiers returning from overseas appear, but all their uniforms are pristine. There are no tears, and they aren’t dirty or dusty. The war orphans wear ragged clothes and have dirty faces and limbs. It seems unnatural that all the adults are dressed so neatly. Even Taito Todzuka (Junki Totuka), who has just returned from the war, has a uniform that looks freshly laundered, and his face is completely clean-shaven.

 

The next day, inexplicably, his outfit changes to neatly pressed civilian clothes. The suits of court officials are also free of wrinkles, and they wear crisp white shirts with starch. Although it might seem like nitpicking, some viewers hope that if a drama depicts the wartime and post-war chaos, it should strive for accurate historical detail.”

Additionally, the pristine white kimonos and aprons worn by the Inotsume family women, the clean clothes of the children, and everyone’s perfectly white teeth are also points of concern.

“Unless absolutely necessary, applying effects for dirt or deterioration would make the costumes unusable for future scenes, leading to higher costs. Moreover, it doesn’t affect the content of the drama, so it’s not considered essential to go to that extent.

Furthermore, many people may not want to see overly realistic depictions first thing in the morning. However, the fact that such details are being pointed out is proof that the drama is receiving a lot of attention, which is actually a positive thing” (commercial broadcast drama costume department personnel).

Given the drama’s prominence, it’s natural that various opinions will arise. It’s clear that many viewers are paying close attention to the series from multiple angles.