Hibana: Spark

Watch Hibana: Spark

  • TV-MA
  • 2016
  • 1 Season
  • 7.8  (1,103)

Hibana: Spark is a Japanese drama series that aired on Netflix in 2016. The series is based on the novel Hibana written by Naoki Matayoshi. The show revolves around the life of a man named Tokunaga, played by Kento Hayashi, who is striving to become a successful stand-up comedian in Japan.

Tokunaga’s life takes a turn when he meets the veteran comedian Kamiya, played by Kazuki Namioka. Kamiya is a successful stand-up comedian who has withdrawn from the limelight and now work in solitude in his apartment. Tokunaga becomes Kamiya’s apprentice and the series chronicles their journey of navigating the difficult and competitive world of comedy.

The show explores themes of friendship, mentorship, and the challenges of pursuing one’s passion in a society that is obsessed with conformity. The series depicts the character’s emotional struggles, their physical limitations, and the hurdles they must overcome to achieve their dreams.

Hibana: Spark is an engaging series that depicts the world of comedy in a unique light. The show not only explores the journey of its main characters, but it also takes a deep dive into the Japanese culture and its relationship with comedy. It highlights the cultural differences in humor and how it varies across the world. The show also shows how comedy in Japan is not seen as a prestigious field and is viewed as a lowly profession.

The cinematography in the series is breathtaking, and it perfectly captures the beauty of Japan’s landscape. The show also uses music to set the mood of the scenes and the score by Yoko Kanno is terrific.

The cast of Hibana: Spark is phenomenal, and the performances are outstanding. Kento Hayashi has done a remarkable job portraying the character of Tokunaga; he is convincing in his portrayal of the character’s journey from a naive young man to a seasoned stand-up comedian. Kazuki Namioka is impressive in his role as the veteran comedian, Kamiya. He brings a sense of wisdom and melancholy to his character, and his comedic timing is impeccable.

Tomorowo Taguchi plays the role of Shimoyama, a middle-aged clown who runs a bar. Shimoyama serves as an anchor in Tokunaga and Kamiya’s lives and provides a welcoming environment for them to relax and unwind. Mugi Kadowaki plays the role of Momoko, a woman Tokunaga meets at the bar. She is the love interest of Tokunaga, and the two share a complex and compelling relationship.

Kaoru Kobayashi plays the role of Tokunaga’s grandfather, the owner of a tofu shop. The character plays a pivotal role in Tokunaga’s life and provides a refreshing perspective on life.

Nahana plays the role of Tokunaga’s former love interest, Kanako. The character’s presence is felt throughout the series, and her emotional impact on Tokunaga is significant.

Overall, Hibana: Spark is an excellent series that explores the world of comedy in Japan. The show combines humor with the emotional depth of its characters, providing a unique viewing experience. The cinematography, the performance of the cast, and the soundtrack are outstanding, and they elevate the show to new heights. If you are a fan of comedy, drama, or just looking for a well-crafted show, then Hibana: Spark should be at the top of your watchlist.

Hibana: Spark is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (10 episodes). The series first aired on June 3, 2016.

Hibana: Spark
Filter by Source

Do you have Hulu?
What are you waiting for?
Nice! Browse Hulu with Yidio.
Ad Info - This show may not be available on Hulu
Seasons
Episode 10
10. Episode 10
June 3, 2016
Sparks play one last farewell show and bring the house down. A year later, Tokunaga's real estate job is interrupted by news of Kamiya's return.
Episode 9
9. Episode 9
June 3, 2016
Plans for a regular spot on a TV show fall through, making Sparks has-beens overnight. Tokunaga wants to keep going, but Yamashita has his own ideas.
Episode 8
8. Episode 8
June 3, 2016
Tokunaga's TV appearances earn him a higher income; they also open a gap between him and Kamiya, whose debts and life are spiraling out of control.
Episode 7
7. Episode 7
June 3, 2016
Sparks goes from a radio gig to a spot on a TV comedy contest. Ahondara performs on the show, too, exposing the difference between their styles.
Episode 6
6. Episode 6
June 3, 2016
Sparks prepares for the first stand-alone show. Meanwhile, Kamiya's situation with Maki has grown precarious, and he asks Tokunaga for help.
Episode 5
5. Episode 5
June 3, 2016
Sparks and Ahondara perform in a variety show where the audience votes for the winner. After the results are announced, Tokunaga makes a change.
Episode 4
4. Episode 4
June 3, 2016
Tokunaga and Yamashita juggle part-time jobs and comedy gigs, but when Yamashita is offered a movie role, they both have to think about their future.
Episode 3
3. Episode 3
June 3, 2016
Prospects for Sparks are looking better every day as New Year's approaches. Kamiya moves in with a woman named Maki, but his career is going nowhere.
Episode 2
2. Episode 2
June 3, 2016
Kamiya's comedy duo relocates to Tokyo, and he and Tokunaga grow closer. Meanwhile, Sparks gets their first shot at an audition to play a real venue.
Episode 1
1. Episode 1
June 3, 2016
Struggling comedian Tokunaga meets intense senior comic Kamiya at a festival and asks to become his apprentice. Kamiya agrees on one condition.
Description
Where to Watch Hibana: Spark
Hibana: Spark is available for streaming on the Netflix website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Hibana: Spark on demand at Netflix.
  • Premiere Date
    June 3, 2016
  • IMDB Rating
    7.8  (1,103)