Karamazov no Kyodai (2013)

If Kurosawa Bunzo had given his family the same level of care Karamazov no Kyodai was created with, we might have been talking about a heartwarming comedy here. This atmospheric, psychological ride is a Japanese gem for 2013 thanks to the meticulous way it was built.

In particular, the cinematography is rock solid. The shots inside the Kurosawa house are some of the most gorgeous and use interesting angles to bring out the dark veil hanging over the place. Beyond those deliberately called attention to by the story, decorations and objects often appear in the same frame as characters--acting as mute symbolism for the person or their situation. This aspect is easy to miss the first time around and is a good reason for a re-watch. Some viewers might find them unsettling or even irritating, but occasionally disturbing clips and images appear between stops in the action. I find them instrumental to the feel of the story.

Music is also masterfully utilized, with the orchestrations displaying delicious moodiness. Vocal tracks will be easily recognized by most everyone, as the bulk of them are classics. The lyrics of these songs (like Paint it Black by The Rolling Stones or Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit) could not have suited the situations they were used in better. Honestly, the first time Paint It Black played over a scene, goosebumps came. I also need to give a special mention to the sound effects team, because sometimes a noise would halt the music. For instance, when Isao is talking to Mitsuru at the bar, the sound of his glass settling on the table signals an eerie silence.

All of the brothers were played well, each actor filling their role believably. If I had to pick a favorite though, Ichihara Hayato would win the contest by miles. His portrayal reminds me of a tragic hero from a Gothic romance, tortured and barely keeping it together; but on the outside he's everything you'd want your son to be, handsome, elegant, and successful in his career. Ichihara-san is especially good at acting with his eyes and often made incredible blocking choices in his scenes. It'll be a blessing if he can get more meaty roles like this; he's a magnetic presence on the screen. On the other side of the spectrum is the cartoon-ish detective, who unfortunately was present during all of the scenes inside the interrogation room. His voice drove me crazy, because he kept speaking in this strange purr that sounded more suitable for a villain in a child's anime.

I'll end by saying that while this is a story of pain, abuse, and ultimately murder, it's an easy watch...if you can handle that. The episodes are short and hook you in, especially if this genre is your bag. If you're anything like me, you'll end up eager to get to the end and watch most of it in one go; once you're there, you might just not see the end coming.

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I've read three novels written by Dostoyevsky (Crime and Punishment, The Brothers Karamazov and The Idiot). The Brothers Karamazov I've read awhile ago but I think I can recall enough to say that adaptation from novel to drama was very good. Even the shift from 19th century Russia to modern Japan was executed flawlessly.
Drama story focuses more on struggle between good and evil inside characters and their relationships, primarily between the Kurosawa brothers.
Dostoyevsky's crucial questions that he asked in his other novels too, were also the main theme here. Does human have the right to take another's life? If someone think so, what are the consequences?

First thing that you notice when you start watching Karamazov no Kyodai is that it is dark, both in story and cinematography. But don't give up on this drama because of that even if this is out of your comfort zone.
It is not a light watch and if you are not used to that I don't recommend marathoning it.
But I think that once in awhile we all need a deep drama, movie or a book to make us question things we haven't questioned before.

Music and cinematography are linked in various ways. Rolling Stones song Paint It Black (yes, you will hear that song too) is most obvious link. It's upbeat rhythm and dark lyrics are much like contrast between other similar songs played and the dark atmosphere and suspense that make your heart beat faster in anticipation of what is coming. And then there is a loud sound (like door opening or closing), music stops and silence. Your heart skips a beat... At least it was like that for me.
There were only two or three instances when I thought that something was off with the sound. It was when they overlapped surrounding music for example piano Ryo was playing and soundtrack music. But I've noticed that other dramas do that too. So maybe it's a trend thing. Either way I didn't like it.

But overall this is the first drama I watched that used the music so well to enhance atmosphere. Where music isn't barley-heard companion that tries not to ruin the mood but an entity that pulls you for your sleeve if you dare to look away.


I left cast and acting at the end because I think it's outstanding. All the characters are believable and nobody overacted. From corrupted Kurosawa Bunzo played by Yoshida Kotaro, sweet Ryo (Hayashi Kento), rebellious Mitsuru (Saito Takumi), torn and complex Isao (Ichihara Hayato) and all the supporting characters (that I'm lazy to name) not one of them disappointed. Their acting pulls you in and make you glued to the screen anticipating their reactions and words. But one of them still manage to arise on the top and amaze me even more.
It may be because the character is so layered and intriguing that Ichihara Hayato's acting leaves you speechless. But also if he weren't amazing actor he wouldn't have been able to pull it off. I'm really not sure how to rate his performance because I haven't experience before that someone's acting could pull me in so much.
If he doesn't get award for this role then those awards aren't merit for talent and effort.


So all in all this drama has 11 episodes and each of them is 36 minutes long so it won't take too much of your time therefor give it a chance.
If you don't like that it is dark, heavy and psychological, regardless give it a chance.
Why? - you ask.
Because you will see something different that will maybe inspire you to read a book or you will hate it but you'll know why you hate it.

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This dorama is absolutely amazing. I was hooked from the moment it started to the moment it ended.
The story is so tense and so mysterious I had no idea who it would be or what would happen.
The acting was out of this world, especially Ichihara Hayato he had at least 3 scenes where I just couldn't look away from him, he was absolutely amazing in this! The others were great too! I like they were all flawed and corrupted characters too pretty much!
The music again was absolutely amazing, such good songs, yes they were English but were hella good ones! The soundtrack too was good.
A little film studies here but I loved the crispness of the camera shots and the colouring was awesome and the angels were great too!
Only down side? I felt the last episode was weak and rushed. Besides that I actually have NO complaints about this dorama! Dying to read the book now too!

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It begins with a detective and three brothers. The father has died and they are the three main suspects.
Just the introduction prepares you for a drama steeped in mystery. I've made up a term for this genre which is banana peelers. Clues unravel with each episode and leave you guessing until the end. Dark themes intermingle with the question of human existence. Despite the mystery here, the story seems to hone in on the brother Isao the most. With good reason, a Steppen wolf like character with no clear disposition. Considering this is Dostoevsky, there's bound to be a lot of philosophic themes that make this mystery breathtaking.

However, in certain dramas, there are characters that are simply show stealers and this is undeniably the father. I would normally fault this type of character for being a villain with no back story but frankly, he doesn't quite need one. There are simple and subtle moments about his character that prevent him from being that. For one, the moment where his youngest son is massaging his shoulders and he broods over whether or not anyone would cry when he dies. Nonetheless, he remains a character that you love to hate. A vile, despicable being that gets your blood boiling but really shapes this story. Ugh, but wow, the type of character where you applaud the actor simply because you really believe his performance. Boy, did I curse that dad. Never has a character been so loathsome.

Frankly, I am not very familiar with Dostoevsky's works other than reading a portion of Notes from the Underground from my existentialist philosophy book, hence I can't say how faithful this is to the novel as I haven't read The Brothers Karamazov (sat on my booklist for three years) . What this is for me is a well executed and chilling story that keeps me guessing.

On to why this is not a perfect ten, there are times when the music intrudes on the dialogue and doesn't really lend itself to the atmosphere. Furthermore, there are some moments that are not showcased but implied leaving me to at times question events and character emotions. For instance, some characters didn't really interact for long yet it seemed like there was a really deep connection there making me wonder when that formed.

Overall, a very stellar message that thoughtfully solves the philosophic question it creates. Themes are interwoven well to present a very good drama that I recommend.

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My hat is off to this adaption of The Brother's Karamazov. The writers did a great job. The cast was wonderful. I happen to be a fan of the Hollywood movie from the 50's (like most people I never finsihed the novel) and I'm pretty sure the J-drama did a much better job. The cast gives some good solid performances. Oh how you will love to hate Yoshida Kotaro. Yoshida's performance as Bunzo Kurosawa is so brillant you wonder why he lived as long as he did. He's 3D: deplorable, despicable, and disgusting. Yoshida usually steals scenes in everything he's in. My eyes go right to him so I have to tip my hat to Takumi Saito, who managed to steal his scenes right back. The main set was a Western style estate which was perfectly dark and worked well with not only the story, but the theme song, "Paint it Black" by the Rolling Stones.

There's not much more I can say. I really enjoyed KnK. I will admit there aren't many clues to point you in the right direction if you're new to the story. If you don't like a lot of red herrings in your mysteries, you might not like KnK. However, if you like the original Hollywood movie, the book (I applaud you), or figuring out 'whodunit,' check it out. You might just guess correctly.

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This Drama will scar you!

It is a Masterpiece from the Past.
Everything about it is Dark.And I LOVED every scene,every line,every piece of music and every character no matter how shady,rotten and troubled was.First episode,just few minutes in it and..Oh Heavens!Do i hear The Rolling Stones - Paint It, Black??? And the Classic Rocks continues!I had fallen so hard i can't go back since!

As i have been watching Asian Dramas for only 2 years iam practically a newbie.I always check the new releases and relatively new Dramas but iam getting too excited when i find old Dramas,older than 2015,that get my attention enough to start watching them.And Karamazov no Kyodai is one of them.And God,iam so glad i did!

Always iam a bit worried about old Dramas.Mostly about the technicalities,the quality of the production,etc.Although when the story and acting is good,i can overlook and not be demanding.

Here,what a pleasant surprise!Cinematography couldn't be better to fit the Darkness of the souls.The pain and the suffering.The troubled lives our protagonists lives! I loved the faded colors in the flashbacks.The gripping music to accompany those scenes.The spooky crows!So E.A.Poe! The "photo shoot" scenes!So artistic! The narrative is superb!From the flashbacks to the present day and back to memory lane not a single dull moment.Nothing is confusing either,regarding the plot line.Is a journey from past to present full of autumn colors and painful memories.The gloomy atmosphere in this Drama is amazing! Perfection meets perfection!Directors,,cinematographers and the crew who chose all the music songs and themes.Great job you all!

As for the acting... The Brothers.I felt i was somewhere in a corner very close, watching them,feeling what they feel,being angry with their anger,being emotionally and physically in pain,suffering with them.I felt i was their little sister,unable to help them,just witnessing their lives.The Father.A true monster with black soul, behind the closed and opened doors!A scary character,made me feel uneasy.The definition of realistic acting!

Profound conversations and dialogues with depth between the brothers reveals piece by piece their characters,brings in surface all their hidden fears,their struggles and their hopes.You will not find even one single lame line here.

Is it a Sin to hate your own father and want him dead?Does this necessarily makes you a bad person?Can we that easily finger point and have a selectively morality?
I asked myself all those questions while watching.Sometimes it was hard to answer.Some others it was really easy.One thing is for sure.We all have a good and an evil side.We all have our inner Demons.Is up to us to feed or exorcize them.

There are so many powerful moments depicting emotions, thoughts and state of mind of the characters. The Father/Monster haunts the brothers even after his death.He is torturing them from the grave,leaving them unable to react,to gather their pieces and eventually move on.No,he is still there playing mind games and bring more pain.
I thought when i started this that all my interest would be focused on solving the mystery and find out who the killer was.That is the reason i chose this Drama in first place,because of the thriller & mystery element.I couldn't imagine that i would be so absorbed by the brothers' characters and get into their psychology.I found myself caring less and less about the actual crime and i was lost in their lives hoping to find a way to heal their broken souls,survive from their past and can finally look at a brighter future.

The 7,9 rating is not enough for this brilliant adaptation of the famous novel.Shame on me i haven't read this yet!But i definetely will.

If anyone can recommend any similar Dramas,please do so.Doesn't matter how old are they.Thank you.

Please do not skip this.You will miss the opportunity to experience such a Masterpiece.

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An excellent adaptation.

No spoilers. Proceed safely. :)

Karamazov no Kyodai is the Japanese live drama adaptation of one of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s greatest novels, “The Brothers Karamazov.” I was highly intrigued yet sceptical about watching this show but I'm highly impressed.

Like the novel, Karamazov no Kyodai revolves around the murder mystery of one of the most loathsome characters that I have seen as of yet, Kurosawa Bunzo, the owner of the Kurosawa Estate. He is openly acknowledged as one of the most hated men in his residential city. His three sons—the eldest, Kurosawa Mitsuru, is a slave to his emotions and often acts foolishly in a fit of passion; the middle brother Kurosawa Isao is analytical in nature and channels his hatred for Kurosawa Bunzo into writing a novel; the youngest is Kurosawa Ryo, he is the kindest of the three and is considered to have the best temperament—they are taken into custody to investigate Kurosawa Bunzo’s murder.

What starts out as a seemingly simple murder mystery, takes us through the emotional and physical torture of the three brothers as children and as adults. The story also stresses how even though the three brothers have been subjected to the same environment, grow up as vastly different characters but still have faith in one another.

Karamazov no Kyodai is a suspenseful plot that combines “the absurd, the surreal and mundane.” It uses grotesque and dramatic but brilliant cinematography to create the imagery that it desires in the minds of its viewers. Characters are always only as good as the actors and thankfully Karamazov no Kyodai has some awe-spiring acting from both its antagonists and protagonists.

With careful usage of dark imagery, soundtrack and strong script, Karamazov no Kyodai throws its convoluted and incidentally mad characters into a convoluted storyline and traces the thin line between hatred that drives one to sin and acting on it; a very thin line which no matter how alluring and seemingly fair, should not be crossed. Brilliant in its execution, Karamazov no Kyodai has managed to convert Dostoyevsky’s novel of more than 800 pages into a compact but impactful drama which holds something new for viewers who have and haven't read the original novel.

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How do children cope and churn through adulthood when raised by a twisted psychopath?

You'll be thrown into a world of dark suspense right from the first episode and you'll find yourself wanting to get to the next episode even if to just unravel the mystery.

I want to commend this series for being able to highlight a number of facts. When surrounded by overwhelming gloom, even a brief glimmer of light can create dispute within the self. Whenever a sob story is heard about a shitty parent or loved one, that person usually blames all of their misgivings on that individual. But there usually is- whether it's the other parent, a sibling, a grandparent, etc who has been in the background trying to protect them them. People tend to take for granted any support structure they were provided and become ignorant of those who've had absolutely none.

They did a good job here at portraying life from the different viewpoints of each son. The internal and external struggles they are made to go through alone and together. The three main actors, despite their personality differences, really did mesh well together here.

It could have been better if there was more in-depth background on many of the characters but it is also an 11-episode series. Points were taken off because while the initial episodes kicked off with good momentum, it started to lag a bit during its mid-point before picking back up. From this mid-point, I already had a hunch as to where the plot was leading so the ending was a bit predictable.

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One of the best psychological thriller

I finished this drama in just 2 days lol
most probably because I was free cuz it
is summer vacations and also the drama
is kinda short. Now I watched this drama
in a rush because I read in a
psychological article that this drama’s
one character has the same personality
as me and I can relate with him and
when there is a character whom I can
relate with then the drama becomes 10
times more interesting for me lol.

Now let’s talk about the drama. As you
have already read in the synopsis the
drama is about three brothers, all of them
hate their father. Now their father is killed,
all the brothers are prime suspect but who
is the killer? Yes the drama is definitely a
mystery and crime investigation type but
that is not its main genre or theme which
makes the drama more interesting.

The drama is pure psychological and so is
the book which it is based on. The drama
explores the minds and lives of the three
brothers and how they hate their father
and their own weaknesses and goodness.

My favourite character is without a doubt
ryo because he is the one I relate with
and he is my twin as the article said. I
really loved how everyone respected him
and loved him, even their evil father
respected him and that just shows how

valuable I am lol just kidding but
seriously the portrayal of ryo’s life and
worries was excellent cuz his problems
are totally my problems. We both our own
worst critics even though everyone loves
us haha.

Basically the drama is all about how a
person has a dark and bad side to him or
her. All the three brothers have a dark
side to them and all of them secretly
wish their father to be dead but who is
the one who obeyed his dark side and
really killed the father? Its totally one of

the best representation of human nature
and its dark side and also talks about
society. The story is really incredible at
least for me who loves psychological
dramas and this one is without a doubt
the best one I have seen yet.

I also fell in love with it's cinematography
and camera angels also its editing is
unique but wonderful and fits the drama
perfectly. The drama is for sure
character driven and even if you don’t
like dark stuff I recommend this drama
to you because I think this is one of
those dramas that every human should
watch as it makes us question about
humanity and their nature.

It totally was an unforgettable watch
and the mystery good too. Even though
my guess of who the kiler is was correct
but you know what I am mostly right so
that’s no biggie but for those who are
new in mystery and can’t really guess
who the killer is, the mystery is great for

them but for the people like me and my
mother who are experienced with these
kinds of shows, you people might guess
the killer like me. The only thing I disliked
about this drama is that my twin ryo
didn’t got a girlfriend. I mean are people
like us destined to be single forever ? lol

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