The Japon (2019)

In the humorous vein of films like "King Ralph" (1991), "The Japon" (2019) embarks on a comedic journey that finds its origins in tragedy. The plot takes flight with the death of Emperor Satohito, leaving Japan in a dilemma due to his lack of an heir. This sets the Japanese government on a global quest for a potential successor, eventually leading them to unearth a forgotten chapter of history about Hasekura Tsunenaga, a distant nephew of Emperor Kanmu who, in 1614, journeyed to Coria del Río, a quaint Spanish town in Andalusia. There, he fell irrevocably in love with a local woman, forever severing his ties with Japan. This historical detour culminates in the discovery of Paco Japón, a staunch atheist, syndicalist, and anti-monarchist hailing from Sevilla. Occupied with the plight of his colleagues at the Kuruma car factory, Paco's life takes a dramatic turn when Hidaka, Emperor Satohito's assistant, arrives in Spain with a royal proposition. Initially dismissing it as a cruel jest, Paco eventually acquiesces under the persuasion of his wife Encarni, envisioning a prosperous future for their family. Relocating to Tokyo and the grandeur of the Imperial Palace, Paco and his family encounter a myriad of challenges. Paco grapples with the complexities of the Japanese language and customs, while Encarni struggles with her limited empowerment as Empress, attempting to alter Japanese inheritance laws in favor of their daughter, Paqui. Paqui, a frivolous girl, finds herself more interested in the luxuries of palace life than her royal duties, while her younger brother, Fran, spends his days in pursuit of becoming a ninja. Amidst all this, Encarni's father, Don Francisco, manipulates Paqui's ex-boyfriend Curro into travelling to Japan to win back Paqui, causing chaos in Tokyo. As they prepare for their coronation, the family's life unravels further when a mysterious figure aims to assassinate Paco and Encarni. The ensuing turmoil within the Imperial Palace is far beyond what anyone could have ever imagined, making "The Japon" a comic exploration of unexpected royalty and the trials that come with it.

The Japon is a comedy movie featuring Dani Rovira and directed by Álvaro Díaz Lorenzo.

The Japon is currently streaming on DIRECTV and Pantaya.