Sanctuary Review: The latest Japanese series (サンクチュアリ -聖域-) premiered on May 4, 2023, on Netflix. The show stars Ichinose Wataru in the lead role alongside Kutsuna Shioli, Pierre Taki, Sometani Shota and more. Directed by Eguchi Kan, the story centres around Japan’s most scared form of sport and a man who enters it solely for fame, women and money.
With a total of eight episodes, the approximate runtime is 40-60 minutes each. The series is shot in the Japanese language with English dub and subtitles.
-Sanctuary Review Contains No Spoilers-
We are introduced to the intricate world of Sumo wrestling from the get-go, and it is far from a world of glamour. The sport that is known around the world as a part of traditional Japanese culture and a religious ritual passed down for over 1,500 years is somehow veiled in secrecy. However, the show provides a gritty reality of the cut-throat and brutal competition within the secret sanctuary.
The plot mainly surrounds Kiyoshi Oze, a man burdened with traumatic past events trying to cope with life. He decided to enter the world of sumo to make his life better, both socially and financially. He lacks respect for the sport or any tradition being followed for ages. He defies his higher-ups every step of the way and constantly showcases his rebellious side. Yet, after yet another traumatic event, his behaviour drastically changes. The progression from him being a “problem child” to a determined and headstrong athlete is done phenomenally well.
Moreover, the story evolved seamlessly. The creator’s attention to character development added nuance to the protagonist’s personality and made the audience invested in his journey. Apart from the main character, an adequate amount of backstory was provided for various side characters that give more depth to the storytelling process. The careful detailing made the interactions more complex and intimate.
The show’s realistic storyline is what made it stand out amongst many. At times, it often feels like one is following a real-life story of a person and forget that it is a work of fiction. The pacing of the show is also done well, resulting in a more immersive and engaging viewing experience. The portrayal of the characters in a genuine way made it quite easy for the audience to connect with their struggles. It efficiently is able to capture the complexity of real-life situations and presents them in a relatable way. Additionally, the plot also explored complex themes and tackled difficult issues with honesty and authenticity.
Besides the absorbing plot, the series contains many explicit scenes, which made it even more gripping. It manages to make one feel uncomfortable to an extent. Moreover, it does not shy away from showcasing the brutal fight sequences in a detailed manner. Along with slow-motion and extensive camera work, it adds excitement to a rather slow and serious story.
Ichinose Wataru did an incredible job of bringing his character to life in a convincing way. From the beginning till the end, he stayed true to his role, which resonated with the audience. Other supporting ensemble casts also deserve praise for captivating and moving the viewers by delivering compelling performances.
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Sanctuary Review: Final Thoughts
The show contains every element that makes it a must-watch. From comedy, tragedy, and betrayal to suspenseful and intense scenes, it has it all. The series is more than just the story of a sport; it contains dynamic and memorable characters that elevated the plot to new heights. It has the capability to keep the audience hooked and feel like they are part of the journey.
Sanctuary is now streaming on Netflix. Did you watch the series yet? Let us know in the comments below!
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