3.8 / 10 (based on 5 reviews)
Haru is an old maid who has moved to the USA to work. She is recruited to work for a Japanese trading company back home. She weighs her options and responds in the affirmative. Upon her return she finds her former husband of a decade ago Mr. Wada being her manager. There are multiple challenges, but she wants to make do. She wants to make a good impression, she wants to avoid conflict with her co-workers and of course she wants to justify their trust in her.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Naohito Fujiki, Masaki Kaji, Miki Nakatani, Eiji Okuda
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes
Shows Most Like Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna (2019)
Watashi no otto wa reizôko ni nemutte-iru (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 17 reviews)
Nana Kisaragi, who lived quietly in a suburban house while earning a living at an online shop that handles imported furniture and miscellaneous goods, lives with her fiance Ryo Sato. However, Ryo suddenly changes and becomes violent. Afterwards, Nana strangles Ryo who is in a tipsy state. She hides the corpse in an old freezer in the storeroom and her free life would soon begin.
Genre: Mystery
Main Cast: Yuika Motokariya, Jin Shirasu, Shô Aoyagi, Hajime Okayama
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes
Dôse mô nigerarenai (2021)
6.1 / 10 (based on 25 reviews)
None
Genre: Romance
Main Cast: Jin Shirasu, Mayu Yokota
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
Bokura wa Koi ga Hetasugiru (2020)
5.6 / 10 (based on 14 reviews)
None
Genre: Romance
Main Cast: Umika Kawashima, Jin Shirasu, Akihisa Shiono, Nana Asakawa
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes
In the realm of television, every once in a while, a show comes along that doesn’t just entertain but also enlightens. “Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna” (Haru: Woman of a General Trading Company), which premiered in 2019, is one such series. It’s a Japanese drama that delves into the life of its protagonist, Haru Unabara, played by the talented Eiko Koike. This series is a compelling narrative about the corporate world, gender dynamics, and personal growth. Let’s explore why this show is worth your time.
The Premise
At its core, “Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna” is about the professional and personal journey of Haru Unabara. She works at a general trading company, a setting that’s ripe for exploring complex business dealings and the intricacies of working in a male-dominated industry. The series does an excellent job of portraying the challenges Haru faces, ranging from navigating corporate politics to balancing her personal life.
Characters and Performances
Haru Unabara
Eiko Koike’s portrayal of Haru is nothing short of remarkable. She brings depth to the character, making Haru’s struggles and triumphs feel real. Haru’s determination to succeed in her career, coupled with her vulnerability, makes her a relatable and inspiring figure.
Supporting Cast
The show also benefits from a strong supporting cast. Each character, from Haru’s colleagues to her family members, is well-developed, adding layers to the narrative. Their interactions with Haru provide insight into her character and the world she navigates.
Themes and Messages
“Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna” tackles several significant themes, making it more than just a workplace drama.
Gender Dynamics
One of the show’s central themes is the gender dynamics in the corporate world. It doesn’t shy away from depicting the sexism and challenges women face in male-dominated industries. However, it also shows women’s resilience and strength, making it a powerful commentary on gender equality.
Corporate Ethics
The series delves into the murky waters of corporate ethics, exploring the compromises and decisions individuals must make to succeed. It raises questions about morality in business and the price of ambition, adding a thought-provoking layer to the narrative.
Personal Growth
At its heart, the show is a story of personal growth. It’s about Haru’s journey to find her place in the world, both professionally and personally. The series beautifully captures the ups and downs of this journey, making it an uplifting tale of self-discovery.
Why It Stands Out
In a landscape cluttered with predictable plots and one-dimensional characters, “Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna” stands out for several reasons.
Realism
The show’s portrayal of the corporate world is grounded in realism. It doesn’t glamorize the industry, nor does it paint an overly bleak picture. This balanced approach makes the series relatable and engaging.
Strong Writing
The writing is another strength of the series. The plot is well-paced, and the dialogue is sharp and meaningful. The writers have crafted a story that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Cultural Insights
For international viewers, the series offers fascinating insights into Japanese corporate culture and societal norms. It’s an opportunity to learn about a different part of the world through the lens of entertainment.
Personal Anecdotes
I remember watching the first episode and being immediately struck by the show’s authenticity. As someone who has navigated the corporate world, Haru’s experiences resonated with me. The series does an excellent job of capturing the highs and lows of a career in business.
One scene that particularly stood out to me was when Haru had to present her proposal to a room full of skeptical male colleagues. The tension was palpable, and her determination was inspiring. It was a moment that encapsulated the show’s essence – the struggle to be heard and respected in a challenging environment.
Conclusion
“Haru: Sogo Shosha no Onna” is a gem of a series that deserves more recognition. It combines a compelling narrative with strong performances, rich themes, and a realistic portrayal of the corporate world. Whether you’re interested in business, looking for a story about personal growth, or simply in search of a good drama, this show has something for everyone. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most profound stories are those that reflect our own experiences and challenges.