Challenged (2009 Japanese TV Drama)

Challenged (Japanese: チャレンジド) is a Japanese television drama series that aired on NHK in 2009. The series explores themes of disability and education, focusing on a teacher's determination to continue his career after losing his vision.

Promotional poster for the drama Challenged

Plot

The story follows Keiichiro Hanawa, portrayed by Kuranosuke Sasaki, a school teacher who gradually loses his eyesight due to an illness. With the support of Akiyoshi Hanamura, a former educator turned principal in Shizuoka, Hanawa attempts to return to the classroom. His journey involves navigating the challenges posed by his visual impairment while overcoming skepticism and opposition from some of his colleagues.

Cast

The series features an ensemble cast, including:

Kuranosuke Sasaki as Keiichiro Hanawa
Yasuko Tomita as Sachie Hanawa
Eri Murakawa as Kyoko Shintani
Isao Natsuyagi as Joji Kakei
Teruhiko Saigo as Akiyoshi Hanamura
Minoru Tanaka as Hiroho Ochiai
Jay Kabira
Rie Kuwabata as Ritsuko Itabahi

Production and Reception

The series was directed by Masahiro Kunimoto and Tomomi Okubo, with a screenplay written by Mutsuki Watanabe. It aired over five episodes. According to data from Video Research, Ltd., the series achieved an average household rating of 6.14% in the Kanto region during its initial broadcast.

Sequel

A follow-up production titled Challenged - Graduation was released by NHK in 2011.