LIGHTHOUSE Review: Not Everyone’s Cup of Ocha
The latest Netflix Japan reality show showcases the amical conversation between two respected artists in Japan, with humor that only a few could understand.
When we talked about a reality show. Japan has always come up with something either highly comical or romantic/matchmaking some sort of competition (kind of like the milder version of a US matchmaking show)
But, a one-on-one talk? Rarely (as far as it is seen in other regions). So, they decided to pair up two well-known artists with a huge fanbase in Japan and let them talk.
One is a chart-topping, award-winning musician, actor, and all-rounder radio personality who’s very charismatic. One is a famous essayist, comedian, and TV person who’s actually really shy in real life.
Little did I know, that these two apparently have been friends for more than a decade.
So, when this show trailer airs. There are some expectations that this would be a great show to introduce to global viewers. Well, it does for some who already knew who these two were. But for new viewers? Might be a little uncomfortable, and here’s the breakdown
SHOW SUMMARY
So, Lighthouse is a talk show about two people sharing their insecurities and struggles whilst trying to shed light on other people’s problems, not entirely solving them.
The main show focuses on Gen Hoshino, an all-rounder, an award-winning musician known for his unique yet charismatic personality, and Masayasu Wakabayashi a comedian and TV persona who rather has a timid personality.
The show relies on the free talk between the two personalities, guided by on one-sentence journal each month for about 6 months. In each episode, they have to present their sentences and talk about it.
6 Months, 6 Episodes, and 5 songs were created and performed live by Hoshino at the end of the show.
POSITIVES
There is a huge difference between a “staged” talk show and non staged one. This falls down to option number two, the conversation between these two shows that they already knew each other. It shows from spontaneous replies and gestures.
Nevertheless, they still abide by the direction of the producer and their own journal.
Even though the jokes might be a bit too cringe for some, the message and their own personal experience really relatable for any age. Mainly those who are in the midst of quarter-life crises.
Their experiences and wisdom could benefit those seeking answers or at least honesty.
This show also highlighted the real behind-the-scenes in the Japanese entertainment industry from the actual person who lives in that industry.
However, the personal conversation could lead to numerous interpretations. Hence, one thing for sure is you can see them not as a performer or public figures. But rather as a person and human being
The songs? Well, it is no secret that Gen Hoshino was considered one of Japan's top musicians, 5 songs corresponding with each theme fit perfectly with the ambiance of the conversation.
From soft-mellow acoustic to upbeat/funk dance. That could be a little introduction to Gen’s music
NEGATIVES
As much as I’d like to convey all the goods from this show. Sadly, this show is not suitable for those who have zero clues about both of the mains. The Jokes that appear in this show are mostly friendly banter that only their loyal fans can understand them
The placing of the sound effects is quite disturbing, it kind of ruins the context (yes, I’m watching with subs.. so yeah). And Netflix subtitles as far as I know might have a different interpretation of the actual context)
Alas, this show also unable to explain the context of some of their conversation. (Yes, I know it’s unscripted but at least you could shed some explanation)
Length-wise, 35 minutes (minus the opening and the live performance) is a bit too draggy for some people, especially those who have zero knowledge of Japanese entertainment culture/or culture in general.
CONCLUSION
Despite the show might be catered to specific audiences. Still, there are a lot of things that you could take on from this show. There is some advice about life in general and their point of view about the industry
My advice, please get to know them before watching. It will help you greatly to understand their banters. Apart from that, their answers are mainly unscripted and spontaneous which shows how close they are backstage.
Overall, this is a good show. But, it’s not everyone's cup of ocha.
RATING
Personal: 3.5/5
General: 2.75/5
