J-Pop show hits local TV

RENA Nounen as Aki in “Amachan”

Japan’s popular comedy-drama series “Amachan” previously made waves in Myanmar and Indonesia before premiering in the Philippines on TV5 this month.

Noel Lorenzana, president and CEO of TV5, stated that “Amachan” has all the ingredients that will please finicky Filipino viewers. “It’s a story of courage, adventure, and selflessness…J-Pop is a global phenomenon. Filipinos will appreciate this show a lot.”

Lorenzana and Yoshihiko Shimizu, Japan International Broadcasting Inc. president and CEO, recently sealed the deal to telecast the series with a contract-signing at the Palace Pool Club in Bonifacio Global City.

The two CEOs also cemented the partnership with a Japanese tradition to signify favorable beginnings, the “Kagami Biraki.” They cracked open a barrel of sake for a ceremonial toast that is supposed to attract good fortune.

Dubbing studio

Shimizu, by way of an interpreter, expressed the hope that the relationship of the two networks will become “stronger and bigger.”

He also visited the dubbing studio that day and praised the work of the production team. He recalled that everyone seemed to enjoy the dubbing work. He also said that he thought the Filipino version might be funnier than the original Japanese.

Representatives also released sea urchin lanterns into a pool, carrying on with the TV series’ aquatic theme.

The “ama” in “Amachan” refers to female divers who search for sea urchins and shellfish. The TV series follows the adventures of the young Aki and her efforts to become an ama herself. She will eventually become famous as a pop star.

Those present at the contract signing were also entertained by the Kawaii 5, a troupe of young female performers who are featured in “Hallo Hallo Cafe,” a live variety show that follows each episode of “Amachan.”

According to Shimizu, “Hallo Hallo Cafe” will also “include additional pieces of information to help the Filipino audience understand and appreciate the story of ‘Amachan’ more.” It will also give the audience opportunities to win prizes.

Syndrome

Shimizu is confident about the appeal of “Amachan.”

“It has been one of the biggest hits in Japan for the past 10 years,” he said. “It aired every day from Monday to Saturday, then fans felt the ‘Amaloss syndrome.’ They really felt sad that ‘Amachan’ was over.”

“Amachan” airs weekdays, 11 a.m., on TV5.