Hanzawa Naoki
Hanzawa Naoki works as a loan manager at the Osaka Nishi branch of Tokyo Central Bank. One day, Hanzawa makes a loan contract for 500 million yen with Nishi Osaka Steel Company. Hanzawa didn't want to approve the loan, but he had to due to the branch manager's order. Nishi Osaka Steel Company seems financially stable, but the company actually hides massive amounts of debt through fraudulent accounts. The company is caught. Three months later, Nishi Osaka Steel Company goes bankrupt. The bank's branch manager is Asano. He is an ambitious man and tries to shift the blame to Hanzawa. Hanzawa then attends an inquiry about the loan failure at the bank's headquarters in Tokyo. Hanzawa denies fault and promises to retrieve the 500 million yen loan. He did this because it's the only way for Hanzawa to survive as a banker.
Insights
Plot Summary
The series follows Naoki Hanzawa, a skilled and ambitious banker at Tokyo Central Bank. Despite facing numerous internal power struggles and corrupt superiors, Hanzawa consistently uncovers and resolves complex financial crimes and corporate scandals. His unwavering commitment to justice and his motto, 'If you don't strike back, you'll be destroyed,' define his relentless pursuit of truth within the cutthroat world of Japanese banking.
Critical Reception
Hanzawa Naoki (2020) was a massive critical and commercial success, continuing the legacy of its predecessor. It was lauded for its gripping plot, strong performances, and sharp social commentary on corporate culture and ethics. The drama maintained exceptionally high viewership ratings in Japan, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon and one of the most popular television dramas in recent history.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its intense pacing and thrilling plot developments.
- Lauded for Masato Sakai's iconic portrayal of the principled banker.
- Commended for its sharp critique of corporate greed and bureaucracy.
Google audience: Audience reviews consistently highlight the show's exhilarating storyline and the compelling performance of the lead actor. Viewers appreciated the drama's ability to keep them on the edge of their seats with its intricate plots and satisfying resolutions, often expressing admiration for Hanzawa's resilience against adversity.
Awards & Accolades
Won numerous awards including the Tokyo Drama Award for Best Series and multiple awards at the Galaxy Awards for its 2020 season. It consistently achieved record-breaking viewership ratings.
Fun Fact
The show's famous catchphrase, 'Oskai, de nakunare!' (If you don't strike back, you'll be destroyed!), became a widely quoted expression in Japan and is closely associated with the character of Hanzawa Naoki.
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