Parallel Tokyo (2019)

Chilling in light of current affairs; keeps viewers on edge

"You see, it’s the cash flow that reflects the naked truth.”

Parallel Tokyo, while intense and frightening in its own right, now seems to glimmer with a chilling prescience in light of COVID-19. Though it explores the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake in the heart of Tokyo, its themes are still starkly relevant. Here is a tragedy that nobody could have truly prepared for, even though there were signs. Reporters are asked to put the integrity of their corporate sponsors above unvarnished truth and public wellbeing. Misinformation runs rampant online, making it difficult to determine what’s real and not. Even when danger passes, the world is changed forever, in unforeseeable ways.

Centering the action on a broadcasting studio and its employees was an excellent choice. This allows the viewer both distance from the action and constant input, keeping the plot moving organically. Takahashi Katsunori catches the eye as the chief editor of the news station, often the vehicle for the themes conveyed by the drama. Koshiba Fuka turns in a solid performance as Kuraishi Mika; her portrayal of a vulnerable everywoman who manages to conjure inner strength in the face of adversity is believable and helps the audience settle into the story easily. That said, the strongest point of this drama is the script and pacing. Not only does Parallel Tokyo keep you on the edge of your seat, it also has a lot to say. Everything else seems a bit secondary, although in this case, I wouldn’t call that a bad thing.

Remember this, if nothing else: In times of great tragedy, all we have is each other.

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