Hibana: Spark

I think you should know what you’re getting into with this series. If you find out beforehand and want to see it, you should like it; but if you go into it just because this or that person is in it, not knowing that it's a very slow, rather artsy series, you will be sorely disappointed. Though the story is about a couple who want to become a comedy duo, i.e. to do what is known as manzai, the series is not very funny. On the contrary, it is quite heavy and often shows a hopelessness that can burden the viewer. You get a slow mundanity, full of long scenes and shots that are not to everyone's liking. The acting is very minimalistic, but the filmmakers are skilled at their craft, so you won't be disappointed. It's a human drama. Well performed. With powerful scenes that can really speak to you. To get an idea of what the Japanese really want to be making, check it out. After all, they got a free hand here from Netflix. (17.01.2017)