Ariyoshi Assists (名アシスト有吉) is a new season of the Japanese unscripted comedy series that has been released on Netflix. The premise of the show is ten guest hosts from different sections of the entertainment world, including actors, singers and professional athletes, appear, and each host their own episode.
Earlier this year, Japanese broadcaster Nippon TV struck a deal with the online platform to produce the ten-part improv show. It is the first time that the network has signed a deal with a global streaming platform. Kazuaki Hashimoto and Toshiyuki Yokozawa are the creators of the show, who also produced the variety shows Ariyoshi no Kabe and Ariyoshi Zemi.
-Ariyoshi Assists Review Does Not Contain Any Spoilers-
The Japanese comedy show is exactly how one would expect it to be, full of absurdity and loud jokes. Renowned celebrities who hosted their own episodes appeared throughout the series, and comedian and singer Hiroiki Ariyoshi served as their assistant during the segments. The participants were comedians competing in different tasks, which also involved a hefty cash prize money. Personalities such as GENERATIONS, IKKO, Summers, Tenshin Nasukawa, Sashihara Rino, Ahn Mika, Fuwa-chan etc., joined the series.
If one is familiar with Japanese game shows or improv shows, then one would know what is coming for them. However, the people who will be watching a comedy show from Japan for the first time will be evidently shocked by the humour. The format is typical of many other series, impossible missions are given to the participants, and they absolutely cannot back out.
The creators followed the no-nonsense policy for the equally nonsensical show and started off the entertainment train from the get-go. From the beginning, the task commenced, and it stretched till the very last minute. A major downside is that first-time viewers will find it difficult to keep up with the pace and will be confused half of the time. The lack of a description of the show or an introductory segment can be noticed, which will interfere with the viewing experience of the foreign audience.
At some points, the episodes got too out of control and quickly descended into chaos. Due to insufficient structure, the segments seemed disorganised, and there was no redeemable factor to it. Some preposterous jokes went a little too far, which can be uncomfortable to most. Weird camera zooms were definitely the cherry on the cake to make it awkward enough not to enjoy it with one’s family.
The concept of the show also heavily fell short a few times as the guests were not duly given control over the episodes they were hosting. Ariyoshi often took over most of the time and was the only stable presence to maintain some order. Some of the tasks also seemed dangerous, and instead of laughing, most would be worried about the participant’s well-being.
Nevertheless, the cast was extremely lively and energetic. The absurdity of the tasks and the blatant candour from the participants are what make the show stand out. The absolute surprise in everyone’s faces is what made the episodes even more entertaining and funny. Each instalment was unscripted, and it managed to bring forward an original concept for each mission.
Ariyoshi Assists: Final Thoughts
Japanese game shows are truly an experience for their over-the-top activities and unconventional humour. You will definitely enjoy the series if you are already familiar with the content Japan provides; however, if you are looking to step out of your comfort zone and watch something new, this improv is the right place to start from.
With a stellar cast and some amazing setups, the show, in its true essence, will introduce you to a different genre of comedy. The excessive and vibrant costumes, along with the unignorable massive on-screen texts, are an escapade you should explore.
The unscripted comedy series is now streaming on Netflix. Did you watch the series yet? Which was your favourite episode? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!