Roosevelt Game (2014)

“This is the story of comebacks after comebacks by men who, in a company driven to bankruptcy, desperately kept on struggling and battling and continued to go after the ball until the very end”. This tagline is perfect to describe the drama overall but since that’s never enough to give this drama its right credit; allow me to state my humble thoughts about the best 2014 drama I saw thus far.

Coming from the same director, producer, channel, screenwriter and the one and only genius novelist Ikeido Jun behind Hanzawa Naoki; you’re bound to expect striking similarities such as the general structure, the business related events, the suspenseful tries to get out of financial troubles, the directing techniques and even the acting style. To many viewers, this may seem like TBS’s desperate tries to follow the footsteps of last year’s mega-hit drama and even re-incarnate its successful ratings. However, Roosevelt Game was able to clearly distinguish itself. This is definitely not another Hanzawa Naoki so do not misjudge this as a copycat.

Roosevelt Game is driven by two main threads: Business management and Baseball. At first glance, you would wonder if those two different themes are able coexist. I had my careful doubts about that matter but colour me surprised! They weren’t only in perfect harmony but they were also smartly written to complement each other which gave the drama a strange yet a very solid balance. The fascinating part is that Aoshima Seisakujo followed similar policies in both company management and sports which made things even more connected and delightful to follow.

This drama excels at building the thrills, you will find yourself at the edge of your seat countless of times. Not to mention the “What the… What the heck was that?” moments. It’s no surprise since this comes from the brilliant novelist Ikeido who’s known of his thought-provoking corporate scripts. The reason why I came to favour the business genre is their highly intriguing scriptwriting and witty dialogues, that part wasn’t any different in here, I was completely satisfied with the financial suspense they built even if the outcome was somewhat predictable. The sports’ part was equally exciting; I never get that feeling unless I am watching a real game or a sports anime. To think that they got me rooting for them out loud is beyond belief.

Acting wise, I have nothing but praise. I never thought that a star-studded cast like this one can go wrong in any way. I was already fascinated by Karasawa Toshiaki in another business oriented drama “Fumo Chitai” and ever since then, I have huge respect towards him. Once again, he drew me to his fearsome ability of turning into an intense actor when his character demands him to. His character was smart, firm and penetrating. Egushi Yosuke’s performance was too mystic; the way his character was written didn’t allow him to show his body language like he’s used to. However, he held an important cryptic character that always attracted attention. Another main character was Kudo Asuka, a young talent that held the realms of the baseball team. He had one memorable performance despite his obvious inferiority to his older seniors mentioned above.

The rest of the cast members were quite fitting for the drama which is nothing out of line for a great business production like this one. Tezuka Toru and Kagawa Teryuki were the better supporting actors. The latter amazed me as usual although I really wished that his talent was exploited further than that. I think this drama is unique due to the human relationships the writer inserted between his characters. The heart-warming events don’t imply that this drama was set in the heartless word of economy and business. That’s definitely a plus point that distinguishes Roosevelt Game from its fellow business oriented productions.

The cinematography was dazzling, literally. The bright colours used for this drama added vivid feeling to the usual sombre business atmosphere. The directing was definitely too similar to Hanzawa Naoki with those famed close-ups and captivating angles. One more thing, that OST was definitely a master’s stroke. That instrumental music was such a perfect fit for this drama’s theme.

Watch if:
-You like highly intriguing dramas.
-You like business/corporate.
-You’re looking for something similar to Hanzawa Naoki but beware, this is definitely different.
-You like sports dramas because baseball was a major part.

Do not watch if:
-You dislike the business theme.

Roosevelt Game is by far, the better written and executed drama of 2014. It contains a daring yet a very successful combination of the merciless world of business and the exciting world of sports. It should be enjoyed for its own benefits. Do yourself a favour, don’t misinterpret this as another Hanzawa Naoki.

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Isn't “Roosevelt Game” an unusual title? Though at first glance it might look odd, once one learns the context things grow clearer. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, that famous American president, adored baseball—so much its terms often featured in his legendary radio addresses! But though he cherished the game as a whole, his favorite situation could be described as a close call; a terrific match was one, in his words, “that guarantees the fans a combined score of not less than fifteen runs, divided about eight to seven.” So a terrific drama like this one, with its engrossing tale of determination, close calls, and unexpected reversal… well, it could bear no better name.

There are actually two story lines in Roosevelt Game: one concerning the ailing manufacturer Aoishima Seisakujo, the other its beloved but struggling promotional baseball team. Both are written solidly enough to stand alone, but complement each other so well why should one want them to? Together, these plots form an exciting masterpiece—though I avoid using that word if it can be helped. Often the events in one half relate to those in the other—but without the heavy-handedness this narrative device often carries. Some parallels are so subtle as to create a feeling of “Ah!” in the viewer when they are realized. And, as one might expect from the team behind Hanzawa Naoki, an overall atmosphere of intensity and forward motion permeates both elements—business and baseball alike. It has all the intrigue and heart-thumping one could wish; several times I found myself exclaiming aloud or nearly jumping upright, no exaggeration.

Because they share an author in Jun Ikeido and even directors, it is impossible to talk about this drama without referencing Hanzawa Naoki. But please, do yourself justice before coming in: don’t expect another Hanzawa Naoki, even though certain components may resemble that excellent series. Roosevelt Game, I felt, was actually an improvement on the model in many essential respects. For one, the human element was decidedly more powerful here—there were even brilliant touches of the life drama Japan so excels in. Thematic components found themselves better applied across the board, creating one solid arc rather than two. But perhaps most telling, Roosevelt Game concludes its 9-episode run satisfyingly self-contained and complete…with one less episode, and no need for continuance. As wonderful as Hanzawa Naoki was and still is (I’ve both marked highly), there’s no reason to allow it to overshadow this rare discovery in its impressive enormity.

I mentioned cinematography earlier; let me conjure it up again briefly. There are indisputable similarities to Hanzawa Naoki (again, same team); you've got the intense close-ups, dynamic angles, and unique shots. However, Roosevelt Game again sets itself apart with brighter lightning and softer colors. I also don’t believe another drama exists with such brilliant baseball footage! Though it isn't my favorite sport, I would be a liar if I said these games were not as exciting or remarkable as any action sequence in Asian television. If they used body doubles for the players, I definitely couldn't tell.

Speaking of players, what a uniformly talented cast! Enough are worth mentioning that I could write another few paragraphs on performances alone—but I won’t do that to you. Karasawa Toshiaki portrays President Hosokawa, an unpopular choice for this important seat; I am unfamiliar with him in a leading role, but he caught my eye right away. There is something of the tiger about him, his method is quiet and understated—but when he strikes, you know. Next is Kudo Asuka, another relatively new face to me and in actuality, as ace pitcher Okihara. A simple and sweet character, Kudo draws the viewer in with a mixture of gentle heroism and unassuming relatability. Be warned you may leave this drama affectionately referring to him as Oki. His wonderfully eccentric coach Daido is a scene-stealing gift via Tezuka Toru, while an executive officer occupies a similar space in the form of Sasai (a delightfully complex and stormy Eguchi Yosuke). So many more I’d love to mention, but please meet them in the drama instead!

For the lack of a more elegant term, the soundtrack is killer. The compositions, exquisitely arranged by Hattori Takayuki (Hanzawa Naoki, Shinsengumi!, Nodame Cantabile) are to absolutely to die for. I am not joking when I say that I've scrambled to find the Roosevelt Game soundtrack for purchase. Though almost entirely instrumental (with a few dramatic exceptions), the songs cannot be stopped from creeping into the brain. They are of an almost universally cinematic quality, from the stirring introduction and intrigue themes to anthems of crushing defeat and spirited victory. If you love string instruments, you’ll be in heaven especially.

One final warning: Roosevelt Game is frighteningly addictive. I finished the entire thing in one sitting—on a work night no less, and I almost want to watch it again right away. Take care when you start!

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First of all, since many people compare it to Hanzawa Naoki I'd give my 2 cents too. Yes, coming from the same author there are many similarities. Especially the business part felt the extension of Hanzawa Naoki with different companies and people. Moreover there was the same narration and a few familiar faces.

But what made this one different and (imo) better was the addition of the baseball team and Chairman Aoshima's character. It honestly gave the series much more heart and emotions. Seeing the baseball team grow together and supporting each other throughout did made me a bit emotional at times. I think it did a good job in signifying the impact and importance sports have and how watching and supporting them is as necessary as playing them. Definitely as President Kido mentions in the last episode, it was kinda cheesy at times but yes in the end I liked it all.

My problem lies with the business part of the show. I am not saying it was bad but it could have been much better. Bringing Hanzawa Naoki again here, I found the same issue with both the series and that is they are too black and white. Like you have the protagonist who will somehow win the day and the corrupt antagonist who is kinda boring with his vague ambitions and underhand tricks.
And I'll repeat myself. It's not that these are bad things. They are fine and at some point I enjoyed them a lot. It's just that at this point I am not too fond of them and prefer greyer and complex plots. But yeah atleast there was some character development involved here and there so that was a plus point.
I took a little liking to all the characters. President Hosokawa and Director Sasai were an interesting duo. Chairman Aoshima with his beliefs and morals was my favourite and the enthusiastic baseball team and all around it made me root hard for them.

Overall a really good and well-made combination of business and sports genre with both in perfect balance.

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If you've watched Hanzawa Naoki you can expect the same crisp narrative and well thought out plot. Heart palpitating moments highlighted by a fast tempo violin and survivor like goodness. Roosevelt is a story that features two perspectives. One being, the Aoshima company and another being the baseball club. They are related in that the company funds the baseball club and they are both struggling to survive, yet they also differ in the way the stories are told.

I want to get the unfortunates out of the way. As I pointed out with Hanzawa Naoki, theatrics are to be expected. Lofty declarations of friendship with some tear shedding moments and ferocious 1970s villain like roaring at the hero is to be expected 'I WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOU!' *ROAR* . Does it make me cringe? Yes. Does it take away from the plot, not really... Can I do without it? Unfortunately, yes. I just can't get used to the whole eyeballs in your head roaring in an almost strange homoerotic fashion. A large portion of this is in the baseball story line so if manly tears and feel-good speeches aren’t your thing, this portion of the story may detract from the overall experience. It shouldn’t though as the baseball club provides some very heart palpitating and heart warming moments.

The story mainly follows Hosokawa, the not quite a hero in this story. He's the president of the Aoshima company who I must yet again steal the survivor logo, must outsmart, outplay and outlast. However, the baseball portion follows Okihara, a hard working pitcher with a killer arm. Unfortunately, I was more keen on the company storyline.

Ultimately, the script is freaking stellar and characters meld into their roles very well. You'll see a few familiar faces from Hanzawa Naoki, a big one being the son of a b**ch that is Kagawa Teruyuki. I say that affectionately as I really do like the guy and he really melds well into his villainous character well, eliciting plenty of curses from me. I can't help but despise yet be charmed by his character. However, he’s not the main antagonist in this bit. The antagonist in this case is the Utuwi company with their figurehead, Bando. He lusts after the highly skilled technology that Aoshima produces and will do anything in his power to ensure the Aoshima company is destroyed. Whether he succeeds or not is your key to embarking on this journey.

I proclaim that my review isn’t very strict because I had fun watching this drama. Often, well done dramas just let me relax and enjoy without strict criticism. I especially enjoyed the odd yet unnecessary little details like the president’s sweet tooth, the hardcore baseball fan who attends every game yet sits there jeering and the chairman’s relaxed attitude in all of this. I also constantly marveled at how the president doesn’t have ulcers from constantly being in a rock and a hard place. These little wonders brought me great joy as I good naturally cursed the characters “don’t trust that Son of a b**ch” “You brilliant son of a b**ch being a particular favorite.

The drama gets a favorable review for me for actually making me enjoy it.

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Inspirational business + sports drama

Japanese drama industry has done great job with business genre. They know what the viewers want. They want to watch dark horse, they want to see someone good winning after a lot of struggle and that’s what Roosevelt Game is also about.

Don’t compare it with Hanzawa Naoki and Rikuou. Hanzawa Naoki really burns the fire in you when you watch it because of the energy. Rikuou just inspire you and leave you teary after every episode. Roosevelt game might seem slightly less emotional but definitely has the right emotions. It’s short. That’s why maybe it was not able to do justice to the whole story. The cast is definitely glamorous and powerful that’s would have wanted to to see more of their screen time.

It has the baseball mixed in that’s why maybe they didn’t have enough time to show the business problems and deals in detail like Hanzawa Naoki. And unlike Rikuou, the business doesn’t revolve around the sport. It’s just how a offices in Japan are like, where there are teams in companies and leagues. This drama tried to depict how these two are separate part in a company are linked together and difficulties the players face as well as how the management side at times have no option but to not priorities the teams and players over business.

I loved the baseball part more than business part because the emotions were more high in baseball side but thanks to the grand cast playing the board of directors of the company managed to bring out the best in the short business time.

Again, don’t compare this with other business dramas, then you will be able to find its greatness.

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