Regarding Karashi's rakugo, praise flooded in from viewers online, with comments such as "It was spectacular!", "He was a master of disguise!", and "This would get laughs even if performed at an actual yose theater." The differences from the original manga also generated excitement, with fans noting, "The jokes in BM have increased so much, making it so funny," and "It's packed with anime-original elements and is exceptionally satisfying to watch."
Furthermore, the rakugoka San'yutei Gohantsubu, who assisted with the composition and staging based on the original manga's ideas for this "BM" scene, also commented on his personal X account: "Mr. Takuya Eguchi, who plays Karashi, has a deep understanding of rakugo, making 'BM' a realistic and high-quality performance that would impress even professionals! Splendidly done."
The anime "Akane-banashi" is based on the popular manga currently serialized in "Weekly Shonen Jump" (Shueisha), written by Yuki Suenaga and illustrated by Takamasa Moue. The protagonist of the story is Akane Ōsaki (voiced by Anna Nagase), who has been fascinated by rakugo since childhood after watching the back of her father, Tōru Ōsaki (voiced by Jun Fukuyama), also known as "Shinta Arakawa." After witnessing a shocking incident during the crucial stage where her father risked everything for his promotion to Shin'uchi, Akane begins to forge ahead to reach Shin'uchi, the highest rank in the rakugo world.
■Episode 8 "Needs"
【Synopsis】
The main finals of the Karakuhai Cup have finally opened. In the venue, the figure of Isshō Arakawa, the head judge, could be seen. As the participants' performances continue on stage, it is finally the turn of Karashi Nerimaya, one of the top contenders for the championship. Karashi's signature style is "adapted rakugo," updating classical rakugo into a modern style. While Karashi gets laughs from the venue with his bold approach, how will Isshō evaluate him?
(C)末永裕樹・馬上鷹将／集英社・「あかね噺」製作委員会
