Sing, Dance, Act: Kabuki Featuring Toma Ikuta
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Sing, Dance, Act: Kabuki Featuring Toma Ikuta
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Sing, Dance, Act: Kabuki Featuring Toma Ikuta is a Japanese-language documentary with subtitles. Accomplished boy-band-member-turned-screen-actor Toma Ikuta gets a chance to perform Kabuki, a traditional form of Japanese theatrical stage drama. Thanks to childhood friend and Kabuki actor Matsuya Onoe, the then 36-year-old Ikuta pursues an invite from Onoe to perform on stage. Images and references include killing, death of a parent, funeral, depression, swords, sparring, rivalries, blood, war, male nudity from the waist up, and beer drinking. Slur words include "freak," "lackey," and "stupid." There are positive messages about how long-term friendships help inspire goals and about having the courage to explore and learn about something new.
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What's the Story?
In SING, DANCE, ACT: KABUKI FEATURING TOMA IKUTA, a former singer (now film actor) takes to the theater stage as an aspiring Kabuki artist. Ikuta engages in the hard work it takes to get there and appreciates support of the production crew. But most importantly, Ikuta cherishes the guidance from childhood friend Matsuya Onoe, who not only offers the actor a possible big break on the Kabuki stage, but also helps Ikuta set out on a viable new career path in the arts.
Is It Any Good?
Director Tadashi Aizawa delivers a delightful documentary about a lasting childhood connection that hangs in there! "Matsuya [Onoe] is my friend from high school," says on-screen actor Toma Ikuta in Sing, Dance, Act: Kabuki Featuring Toma Ikuta. "Back in high school he would say, 'One day we'll be on stage together. We'll do Kabuki.'"
Ikuta doesn't believe it will happen, but the actor gets an unexpected call from Onoe. Notes Ikuta about the Kabuki invite, "It's nothing like the movies or plays I've done." Onoe reveals Kabuki, an art form in existence for centuries, creates "this sort of eruption from inside that gives you goose bumps." Similar effects may also be experienced by viewers during this feel-good film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Toma Ikuta's courage in Sing, Dance, Act: Kabuki Featuring Toma Ikuta. How do Ikuta and the cast demonstrate communication, perseverance, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
How does the childhood bond between Toma Ikuta and Matsuya Onoe compare with their adult friendship? Are there childhood friends who you would like to keep throughout your life? Why or why not?
Onoe's dad was also important in Ikuta's life. How has someone who you admire while growing up had an impact on your life?
Ikuta gains confidence as a Kabuki artist. Could you be willing to do the physical demands it may take to achieve your goal? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: June 16, 2022
- Cast: Toma Ikuta, Matsuya Onoe
- Director: Tadashi Aizawa
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Friendship, Great Boy Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication, Courage, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 87 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 21, 2022
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