Peko Watanabe’s thought-provoking manga, 1122: For a Happy Marriage, is set to expand its exploration of modern marriage with a spinoff series. The original manga, known in Japan as 1122 (Ii Fūfu meaning “Good Couple”), delves into the complexities of a marriage where the couple has an agreement that allows extramarital affairs.
What is ‘1122: For a Happy Marriage’ About?
1122: For a Happy Marriage centers on Ichiko and Otoya Aihara, a couple who, after seven years of marriage, find themselves in a sexless relationship. To maintain their happiness, they agree to an “official affair” system, where Otoya has a relationship with a woman named Mitsuki. The manga explores Ichiko’s evolving perspective as she observes Otoya’s involvement with Mitsuki, leading her to question her own desires and the nature of her marriage. The series, penned by Peko Watanabe, the author of Nikotama, navigates the delicate balance of lies and truths within the bonds of matrimony. The manga was serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Morning Two magazine from September 2016 to May 2020. Kodansha published seven tankōbon volumes, which Kodansha USA Publishing has released in English.
Live-Action Adaptation
The manga’s popularity has further extended its reach through a live-action television drama adaptation, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video in June 2024. Directed by Rikiya Imaizumi, with scripts by Kaori Imaizumi, the series stars Masaki Okada as Otoya Aihara and Mitsuki Takahata as Ichiko Aihara. The live-action series captures the essence of the manga, depicting the intricacies of Ichiko and Otoya’s unconventional marriage and the emotional challenges they face.
Themes and Reception
1122: For a Happy Marriage has garnered attention for its realistic portrayal of marital issues and its thought-provoking themes. The manga was nominated for the 12th Manga Taisho awards in 2019. Brutus magazine included it on their “Most Dangerous Manga” list in December 2019, highlighting its stimulating and thought-provoking exploration of marriage.
