Netflix Releases Trailer for Japanese Drama Remake ‘Asura’

“Doesn’t everyone have something they’re not proud of?” This question, asked by the eldest sister Tsunako in the new trailer for Asura, sets the tone for a series that dives into family secrets and personal struggles. The Japanese drama remake, directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, will premiere on January 9 and promises to engage audiences with its powerful story and talented cast.

The main cast includes Jun Kunimura as the sisters’ father Kotaro, Keiko Matsuzaka as their mother Fuji, and Masahiro Motoki as Makiko’s (Machiko Ono) husband Takao. Ryuhei Matsuda plays Katsumata, a private investigator who has feelings for Takiko (Yu Aoi).

Kisetsu Fujiwara appears as Sakiko’s (Suzu Hirose) boxer boyfriend Hide, while Seiyo Uchino portrays Sadaharu, a restaurant owner secretly involved with Tsunako (Rie Miyazawa). These supporting characters shine alongside the four sisters, building excitement for their on-screen dynamics.

Other notable roles include Yui Natsukawa as the wife of Tsunako’s lover, Naho Toda as Kotaro’s mistress, and Kumi Takiuchi as Takao’s co-worker and possible affair partner. Makiko and Takao’s children are played by Kairi Jyo (known for Shoplifters) and rising talent Maru Nouchi, with Atsuko Takahata appearing as Hide’s mother.

The trailer hints at the sisters’ lives being upended when they learn about their father’s affair. As emotions flare, secrets surface—Tsunako’s relationship with a married man, Makiko’s struggles with her husband’s infidelity, Takiko’s complicated love life, and Sakiko’s feelings of not measuring up to her sisters.

Photographer and cinematographer Mikiya Takimoto has also shared special portraits of the four sisters, capturing the heart of the series’ modern family drama.

At a press event celebrating the series’ completion, the four lead actresses and producer Yasuo Yagi highlighted their strong bond and shared experiences on set. Rie Miyazawa, who plays Tsunako, described her co-stars as “true younger sisters.” Yu Aoi, who portrays Takiko, said working on the series felt like “a dream you don’t want to wake up from.”

Suzu Hirose, as the youngest sister Sakiko, called the project “precious” and shared how much laughter they had on set. Machiko Ono, who plays Makiko, confidently stated, “This is one of the best works ever, if I do say so myself.”

Asura, a heartfelt family drama about four sisters searching for happiness, premieres January 9, only on Netflix.

How do you like the trailer? Will you be watching? Let us know in the comments below.