Film Review: What If Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa Was to Become the Prime Minister 如果德川家康成為總理大臣 (2024) - Japan
Rating: 7.5/10
Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)
In "What If Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa Was to Become the Prime Minister," director Takeuchi Hideki and screenwriter Tokunaga Yuichi craft a whimsical yet thought-provoking narrative that delves into a fascinating alternate reality. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous 2020 marked by a global pandemic, the film presents a unique premise where historical luminaries like Ieyasu Tokugawa, Ryoma Sakamoto, Nobunaga Oda, and Hideyoshi Toyotomi are resurrected through AI holograms to form a super cabinet.
The film's strength lies in its ability to blend historical figures with contemporary crises, offering a fresh perspective on leadership and governance. The portrayal of these iconic personalities navigating modern challenges is both entertaining and enlightening, providing a lens through which to reflect on the state of humanity and history.
Hamabe Minami shines as Nishimura Risa, a TV reporter caught in the whirlwind of political intrigue surrounding the legendary cabinet. Akaso Eiji's portrayal of Ryoma Sakamoto adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the tensions bubbling beneath the surface.
While the film excels in its imaginative storytelling and engaging characters, it occasionally falters in pacing, with certain plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. However, these shortcomings are overshadowed by the film's overall message about the intersection of past and present, offering viewers a poignant reflection on the nature of power and responsibility.
"What If Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa Was to Become the Prime Minister" is a captivating exploration of what might have been, blending history with contemporary relevance in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its intriguing premise and charismatic cast, this film is sure to leave audiences pondering the complexities of leadership and legacy long after the credits roll. (Neo, 2024)