Asakusa Kid (2002)
A touching biographical drama tracing the comedic awakening of a young Takeshi Kitano in the heart of Tokyo's legendary Asakusa entertainment world.
Asakusa Kid - Movie Information
- Original Title: 浅草キッドの「浅草キッド」
- Release Year: 2002
- Directed by: Makoto Shinozaki
- Type: Movie
- Genres: TV Movie, Drama
- Runtime: 1h 51m
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- Production Companies: SKY PerfecTV!
- Production Countries: Japan
- Alternative Titles: Asakusa Kid's Asakusa Kid (JP)
Asakusa Kid - Plot
After dropping out of college, "Takeshi" jumps into the Asakusa France Theater and begins his training as a comedian. His teacher, Senzaburo Fukami, Masayoshi Inoue, who also trains at the French Theater and aspires to be a writer, and other good-natured dancers… This heartwarming and moving drama set in Asakusa vividly depicts the process of "Takeshi's" self-discovery through interaction with his delightful friends.
Where to Watch Asakusa Kid
Looking for where to watch Asakusa Kid?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Asakusa Kid - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Makoto Shinozaki
Main Cast
- Hakase Suidobashi
- Sujitarô Tamabukuro
- Saburo Ishikura
Writers
- Dankan
Asakusa Kid - FAQs
Is Asakusa Kid based on a true story?
Yes, Asakusa Kid is based on a true story. It dramatizes the early life of Takeshi Kitano, the legendary Japanese comedian and filmmaker, depicting his formative years as a young apprentice at the Asakusa France Theater under the mentorship of veteran performer Senzaburō Fukami.
Who are the main actors in Asakusa Kid?
The main cast of Asakusa Kid includes Hakase Suidobashi as Takeshi Kitano, Sujitarô Tamabukuro as Masayoshi Inoue, and Saburo Ishikura as Senzaburō Fukami, the experienced theater mentor who guides the young aspiring comedian through his early career.
What is Asakusa Kid about?
Asakusa Kid follows a young man known as "Takeshi" who quits college and immerses himself in the world of Asakusa's France Theater to pursue comedy. Guided by his teacher and surrounded by colorful friends and dancers, he embarks on a moving journey of self-discovery in Tokyo's historic entertainment district.
Who directed Asakusa Kid?
Asakusa Kid was directed by Makoto Shinozaki, a Japanese filmmaker known for his thoughtful, character-driven dramas. The film was produced by SKY PerfecTV! and originally aired as a TV movie in Japan in 2002.
What genre is Asakusa Kid?
Asakusa Kid is a TV Movie Drama. It blends biographical storytelling with heartfelt human drama, drawing on the real-life experiences of Takeshi Kitano during his early days as a comedy apprentice in the Asakusa entertainment district of Tokyo.
How long is Asakusa Kid?
Asakusa Kid has a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes (111 minutes). The film was produced as a TV movie for SKY PerfecTV! in Japan and offers a complete, self-contained narrative about Takeshi Kitano's formative years in the world of Asakusa comedy.
Where can I watch Asakusa Kid online?
You can find current streaming and viewing options for Asakusa Kid on JustWatch, which aggregates availability across multiple platforms in your region. Streaming libraries change frequently, so JustWatch is the most reliable way to check where the film is currently available.
What are similar movies to Asakusa Kid?
If you enjoyed Asakusa Kid, you might also appreciate City of God (2002), Boys Don't Cry (1999), The Killing Fields (1984), and Give Them Wings (2021) — films that share themes of personal struggle, mentorship, and self-discovery set against vivid, culturally rich backdrops.
More About Asakusa Kid
Explore further details and official listings for Asakusa Kid below.