September 19, 2024 marks the highly anticipated release of Netflix’s new wrestling drama “The Queen of Villains”, a series dedicated to the rise of the legendary Dump Matsumoto. This five-episode series dives into the golden age of women’s professional wrestling in Japan, shedding light on the incredible story of Matsumoto and the rivalry that defined an era.
Set in the 1980s, the series explores the iconic rivalry between Matsumoto and the celebrated “Crush Gals,” Chigusa Nagayo and Lioness Asuka. During a time when women’s wrestling took over Japanese television, these athletes were more than just competitors—they were cultural phenomena. Fans would tune in not only to watch them fight but also to see them sing and dance in the ring. Dump Matsumoto, however, stood apart as the ultimate “heel,” or villain, captivating Japan by terrorizing her opponents and the audience alike.
The Cast and Crew
A talented cast brings these wrestling legends to life, starting with Yuriyan Retriever as Dump Matsumoto. Her portrayal promises to capture the ferocity and passion that made Matsumoto a household name. Joining her are Erika Karata as Chigusa Nagayo and Ayame Goriki as Lioness Asuka.
Behind the camera, The Queen of Villains boasts an impressive production team. The series was developed and written by Osamu Suzuki, who was inspired to turn Matsumoto’s untold story into a drama after hearing her recount her experiences in women’s wrestling. Kazuya Shiraishi, known for his work in films like The Devil’s Path and The Blood of Wolves, serves as the supervising director, while Chigusa Nagayo herself led the physical training of the actors, ensuring the wrestling scenes were as authentic as possible(What’s on Netflix)(Fightful).
Storyline Overview
The heart of The Queen of Villains lies in its exploration of what made Dump Matsumoto such a polarizing figure. Once deemed too kind to play the role of a villain, Matsumoto eventually embraced her dark persona and became one of the most feared women in the sport. She turned the entire country against her, making her mark as the most famous villain in Japanese wrestling.
The series traces her transformation from a young girl with dreams of becoming a wrestler into the formidable figure she became in the 1980s. Her battles with the “Crush Gals” are at the center of the story, but the series also delves into her personal struggles, the challenges of being a female wrestler in a male-dominated industry, and the immense pressure of fame(Fightful).
What to Expect from the Series
With just five episodes, The Queen of Villains promises to be a compact but powerful series. Viewers can expect a deep dive into the world of women’s wrestling in Japan, with a particular focus on the intense rivalries that made the sport so popular. The show combines elements of drama, sports, and history, making it a unique viewing experience for wrestling fans and general audiences alike.
The series will also shine a light on the broader cultural impact of women’s wrestling during the ’70s and ’80s. Teams like the “Beauty Pair” (Jackie Sato and Maki Ueda) and “Crush Gals” not only fought in the ring but also became pop culture icons, performing songs and gaining a massive following across the country. On the opposite side was Dump Matsumoto, whose role as the villain only fueled the popularity of her opponents.
The series aims to show both the glamor and the hardships of being a female wrestler during this time. Viewers will get to see the grueling training, the physical toll of constant fighting, and the mental stress of staying on top in a highly competitive and often brutal industry(Fightful)(What’s on Netflix).
Behind the Scenes
Osamu Suzuki, who developed the series, based the story on real-life events, drawing inspiration from interviews and historical footage. He collaborated with Kazuya Shiraishi to ensure the show’s tone and style would resonate with both modern audiences and longtime fans of professional wrestling. The actors also went through rigorous physical training, with Chigusa Nagayo herself overseeing the wrestling scenes to make sure they were as realistic as possible.
The production was carried out by Netflix in collaboration with the Japanese company KADOKAWA. The series has already garnered significant attention leading up to its release, with fans eager to see how Matsumoto’s story will be brought to life on screen(What’s on Netflix)(Fightful).
Why You Should Watch
Whether you are a wrestling fan or someone who enjoys well-crafted dramas, The Queen of Villains offers something for everyone. The series brings a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling, focusing on the women who helped shape the sport in Japan. The characters are larger than life, and the storylines are filled with tension, drama, and emotion.
Additionally, the show offers a historical perspective on the rise of women’s wrestling in Japan, a movement that continues to influence the sport today. It also tackles themes of fame, rivalry, and the lengths people go to in order to succeed.
Conclusion
As The Queen of Villains hits Netflix on September 19, 2024, it’s sure to captivate audiences with its blend of real-life drama and larger-than-life characters. Dump Matsumoto’s story is one that deserves to be told, and this series does just that, exploring her rise to fame and the rivalries that defined her career. Don’t miss out on what promises to be one of the most exciting sports dramas of the year.
