Japanese LGBT+ Main & Side Characters/Romances

#101

Main romance between two MLs with a focus on family.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Beautiful. It was so real and the setting was gorgeous. They managed to capture loneliness and longing in Shun, and regret (as well as longing) in Nagisa.

These didn't feel exactly like the same people from the prequel, but I could see sparks of their old selves at times.

I was very moved by this movie. My emotions overcame me so it's hard for me to describe it as well as I normally would any other completed drama or movie as I keep thinking back to specific moments. Forgive me for that. Maybe I'm feeling as overwhelmed as Shun was, picking up the sweater and thinking back.

I do have to note how precious the kid, Sato, was. She was so sweet, brave, and curious about the world.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#102

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just . . . I was so happy to watch this.

Link to Drama Otaku page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/movie/cherry-maho-the-movie-30-sai-made-toutei-da-to-mahoutsukai-ni-narerurashii/?swcfpc=1

Or 

Can be found on free websites

#103

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on family and coping.

Putting my review here as I really can't figure out how else to word my thoughts: It conveys the reality of Queer life and just life: Masking, shit-talking, supporting, loving, and coping.

Others have put why this movie is so great into much more beautiful words. I'd simply recommend reading their reviews to understand.

Can be found through fansubbers/free websites

#104

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Brief thoughts on the movie: He finally claimed ownership! "He's mine. My Beautiful Man."

Link to Poem Post (in case you're curious): https://mydramalist.com/profile/8835865/feeds/k2OJ7IJ

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#105

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on hearing impairment and deafness.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Really sweet, and heartbreaking at certain points. This movie dares you to challenge the way you think about people with hearing impairments and gives you a different perspective. The relationship between the leads was also very natural.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or free websites

#106

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just felt like a longer episode of the drama and was just as enjoyable.

Link to Fansubbed version: https://kinounaniresource.tumblr.com/

or

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN)

#107

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: I can't believe it took me this long to get to it!

It was interesting to see the growth they underwent here compared to the first and second seasons. One thing never changes, though: They continue to grow old and eat good food together. 

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#108

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: This has to be one of the sweetest fucking things I've ever seen.

This showed from start to finish the embarrassing and exciting experience of finally talking to that person you're interested in and actually having them reciprocate. And all the missteps and moments of barely-mustered courage in between. From initiating a conversation and agonizing over what to say so much that you say very little, exchanging numbers, typing, deleting, and retyping the first text, to going on a date for the first time and making things official.

What a treasure these shy and real moments in a developing romance are.

Bless these two sweet, terribly awkward men.

That's it. That's all I had to say. NOW GO WATCH THIS MOVIE BECAUSE IT'S GOOD, I PROMISE! 

Link to watch it: https://sketchyblsubbingteam.netlify.app/sonokoi

#109

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A snappy, fun, and heartfelt movie that continued things from where the drama left off very well.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#110

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala (with a VPN) or free websites

#111

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Eh. *shrugs* It took me back to early 2010 J-BLs. But while it had the same tropes, bordering on toxic personalities/messages, and bad haircuts, it had none of the memorable overdramatic/iconic aspects as the previous Takumi-kun series.

Really, rather than rewatching the first Takumi-kun series or any of the others, if you want to see something ACTUALLY good, go watch the Seven Days movies. Seriously, go watch them if you haven't already! How many times do I have to tell you?! This has been a PSA from Mademoiselle Noir. Thank you.

Link to @Furritsubs page with subs: https://furritsubs.wordpress.com/2024/03/24/takumi2023-engsubs/

#112

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the series itself: Just a nice little continuation of the side characters' stories/romances.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#113

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a little special continuing the drama's story.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#114

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

This was sweet and funny and gave more insight into Adachi and Kurosawa.

Can be found on YouTube or free websites

#115

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a nice extra little story.

Can be found on YouTube

#116

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

It was nice to see these extra moments. It was an enjoyable watch.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#117

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A very short and sweet little epilogue with the MLs spending a morning together.

Can be found on free websites

#118

Main romance between two MLs, with a prominent love triangle.

My thoughts on the special itself: Felt like I finally had to watch this. It was definitely nowhere near as good as the original drama or the following spinoffs/sequels. Honestly, I'd recommend skipping it. It's not really funny or has any real charm to it.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#119

Features a Queer SFL, Kanno Seira, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Asagi Soramame. She does make some choices that are not kind but is not herself an unkind person.

We get very obvious clues as to Seira liking Soramame, with Ep 8 seeing her outright admitting to the ML, Umino Oto, that she likes her, as well as later in the final episode confessing to Soramame over the phone. Throughout glimpses into Seira's life/scenes with her, we never actually learn about or see her discuss her sexuality, though. Thus, leaving me to label her Queer rather than a Lesbian, contrary to the MDL tag.

I wouldn't recommend watching this for the rep alone as it wasn't very present in the drama. Now, the drama itself, I did find compelling. See my review below.

My thoughts on the drama itself: A drama full of coincidences and missed chances, and characters somehow inspired to find optimism and joy for life and their dreams. This felt like taking an evening walk in a park with a charming stranger. The sun is almost close to setting, and the world is aglow with warm, orange light, and something about the stranger's smile makes them seem almost familiar.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#120

Features a Lesbian SFL, Kashii Mia, who is completely open about her sexuality. 

Side Note taken directly from my review: I loved how when Sou, one of the main MLs, was told by Mia that she thought he and Aoi, the other main ML, were boyfriends (she also mentions that she is a Lesbian), he doesn't get upset or offended at all at her assumption or say something like, "How could you think that?!" or, "Of course not!" You know why? Because he knows there is nothing wrong with it so why would he get upset? Exactly, Sou! Exactly!

Link to my review if you're curious about my full thoughts on this drama: https://mydramalist.com/profile/8835865/reviews/160577

Link to Subbed Episodes: https://www.ichihachisubs.com/aoki

or can be found on Rakuten Viki

#121

Features a Lesbian SFL, Imayoshi Reiko, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Mamoru. Ep 7 & 8 are where her feelings are clearly laid out (though it is hinted at in previous episodes) as she at first plans to leave the company since just being at Mamaoru's side but not being able to be with her how she wants is painful. However, after she gets outed by someone online and receives support from Mamoru and everyone else at Three Star Books--they declare that they wouldn't work with people who wouldn't support who she is in the first place--she decides to stay. Finally, during the last episode, through a casual line from Mamoru, we find out Imayoshi now has a girlfriend and is quite happy with her.

Though we didn't get to spend much time with the character Imayoshi herself, I found the words and actions of the other characters to speak volumes and, in my opinion, do well advocating for Queer people. All in all, very solid rep.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#122

Features a Lesbian SFL, Sanae Ebato, who has unrequited feelings for and a brief relationship with the main FL, Yasuroka Hanabi. She was morally grey/dark like everyone else, which I found fitting. I think if they had made her the one perfect/morally righteous character, it would have felt like pandering rather than an easy inclusion of a Queer character who suited the drama's theme/matched the other characters' tone. So, personally, I'm glad they went the route they did with her.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#123

Main blossoming romance between two FLs. These two basically have what they think are unrequited crushes but very obviously aren't. By the end, it seems like the natural continuation of their relationship would result in dating.

My thoughts on the drama itself: They both constantly misread the situation/what the other girl was thinking. Lol. I loved it! It was cute AND funny!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-PWvwJngGZAyNAhGi1D1J_1cpqPL5oIU

#124

Main romance between two FLs, as well as features an Asexual Lesbian, Yako Kaname.

Regarding Kaname, Ep 6 sees her opening up to FL Yuki about her sexuality. Also, in Ep 9, we get to learn more about her life and coming to realize her Queer identity. We get to see a flashback to when she had a girlfriend in school. Her girlfriend expresses how hurt she is because Yuki won't let her hold her hand or kiss her and doesn't even seem to like to be touched by her. The two end up breaking up. It's a difficult scene to watch and definitely appears to have left an impact on her.

All this additional info to say that I believe it's quite likely that in addition to being an Asexual Lesbian, Yuki is also touch-repulsed.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Our lovely ladies returned in this second season to grace our screens with the sweet development of their relationship, their own personal challenges and moments of growth, the meeting of new supportive and heart-warming friends, and even more delicious meals.

I know last season I begged for a second season but, now, I'm begging for a third. Pleeeeeeeeease!

If you're not watching this, what are you doing?! Do you not like JOY?!

Consent Highlight: Permission is asked for hugging AND kissing :) 

My favorite line from the two FLs' talk together: "I would be happy if I could also try things with you one by one."

Subbed by Furritsu: https://x.com/Furritsubs/status/1735294721021583472?s=20

Link to Drama Otaku Page with raws and subs (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/tsukuritai-onna-to-tabetai-onna-season-2/

#125

Main romance between two FLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't much of an issue here.

Regarding Riko, it was lovely to see her explore not only a romance with Kei but also just come out of her shell more.

Regarding Kei, she was so easily Bi! Love to see it!

Riko to Kei: "Do you like girls?"

Kei: "Girls, boys, I do like both."

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyqngFOTdamAXFE9oFKVflhYaYCM75hRU

#126

Main romance between two FLs, with both stating/their sexuality being clear.

My thoughts on the drama itself: They had convincing chemistry, but I found the overall story to be lacking. Not to mention, the ending seemed to just be thrown together. I'm disappointed as I really wanted to love this but couldn't.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

Or

Link to Drama Otaku Page with raws and subs (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/subtitle-project/chaser-game-w-unext/ 

#127

Main romance between two FLs.

I hate to say this . . . But I found myself more interested in the plot outside of the romance. And, while they were cute together, I felt the story would have been more interesting if it had been about Sayuri coming to terms with her father's marriage and accepting Yui as her new sister.

Side Note: I was really upset that Yui not only chose a completely inappropriate moment to kiss Sayuri but that she also didn't ask for her consent. We do not let that fly here!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdTbAAy4JGzj26Vn8LKpyHvFxFIt76UNy

#128

Will watch sometime

Main romance between two FLs.

Link to buy/watch it: https://www.yurihub.com/product-page/act-1-kanojonokuchizuke-kansensuru-libido-short-movie

#129

Need to rewatch to further analyze rep

Main romance between two FLs.

Really genuine, raw, calming, and hopeful.

I loved how they told the other people's stories and not just the main couple's. It truly felt like I was getting a special look into intimate details from their past experiences and what made them who they are today.

This was a beautiful movie.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#130

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: It was mundane but not boring. And I liked the overly casual tone it took with everything, as it felt kind of unique. However, many plot points didn't seem to make sense to include or could have been left out entirely without feeling anything was missing.

Not a movie I regret watching, but not one I would necessarily recommend. I mean, if you're starved for Sapphic content, then sure. 

Can be found on free websites

#131

Features a Lesbian FL and a later romance with her and the other main FL.

My thoughts on the movie itself: This was on-the-run Lesbian-manic-pixie-dream girl meets murder. And . . . I kind of liked it?

Are many lines and themes able to be pinpointed as having been included for/due to the male gaze? Absolutely (now I will argue with some as having been due to the character herself viewing the world/her sexuality/relationship/herself that way). But, as a whole, I found this experience crazy yet raw and real. The movie simply says, "Here." It doesn't tell you how you have to feel about it. I liked that they didn't try to glamorize the two girls' relationship, whether in the past or present, they not only miscommunicate but also manipulate and hurt each other. I will say, if you've never loved someone so much you'd be willing to drop everything in your life the moment they call or text you, or had someone you keep giving second chances to, I'm not sure you'll quite be able to give this a fair chance.

All in all, you might hate me for saying this, but I'd actually . . . Kind of . . . Recommend it.

Can be found on Netflix 

#132

Features a Bisexual FL, Hasegawa Miki. 

So, Miki. While I ended up disliking Miki later on, I did like the way her sexuality was handled. Her family seemed very open so a coming out was never needed, the implication was that it didn't really matter who she liked (in fact the only one who ever asked her a question about it was her brother, Kaoru, but the answer didn't even seem to matter to him). Even during the girl she was interested in's big speech, there was never a shot of her parents being horrified, nor was there a confrontation scene. Life just went on.

My thoughts on the movie itself: It's very slice-of-life for the majority of the film. That was when I liked it the most. I loved how it focused on this one out-there but wonderful family (the way the mother explained sex. Lol) and just told the story of their lives throughout the years with all the minor and major events included, all told through Kaoru's perspective. The last 3rd or so does get rather twisted at a few points when Miki is involved, however, and some parts of the story felt unexplained. I felt like a few problems related to her didn't get addressed like they should have for just how messed up they were. That being said, I did enjoy the movie, for the most part.

I would give it an 8/10 because of the criticisms I mentioned above, but because of the 2/3 of the film that was great, I'm giving it a higher rating.

Can be found on free websites

#133

A reality TV Show that features a Transgender woman among its participants. She was the best part of watching this outrageous and often offensive show. And, get this: She ends up being part of one of only two couples that resulted from this "experiment." 

Seeing her find a guy who loved her as she was was truly heart-warming. She was also just such a genuinely sweet person, so it was easy to root for her. Like, basically everyone else (including the hosts) was an asshole.

Can be found on Netflix

#134

Features a likely Bisexual ML.

The mixed reviews have me a bit anxious. But I know I will need to see it for myself. Safe to say that I will get to this. At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on free websites

#135

Features an Intersex FL (per the tags), Hoshino Haru.

You know I will most definitely be watching this. I have to! At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on free websites

#136

Will research and add info 

Features a Gay Supporting Character

This sounds and looks pretty good. I mean, I watched and (for the most part) liked Raise de was Chanto Shimasu. I won't guarantee anything, but there's a good shot I will watch this. At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Link to watch it (without subs): https://www.dandanzan.com/dianshiju/95566.html

#137

Will research and add info 

Features a Bisexual FL.

Link to Drama Otaku page with subs and raws (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/ikinokotta-6-nin-ni-yoru-to/?swcfpc=1

#138

Will add info soon

Reportedly features a Bisexual Supporting Character as well as an Aromantic Supporting Character.

Easy access and the possibility of some rare Aro rep? Of course, I'll watch it! At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or Netflix

#139

Will research and add info

Has an ambiguous LGBTQ+ tag. I guess I'll need to watch this to find out who may or may not be Queer!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#140

CW. Will update accordingly.

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagagOOLala

#141

PTW

Coming July 1st

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform/Subber not known yet

#142

Coming July 9th

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Netflix

#143

Will watch soon

Features a Gay SML, Igarashi Daichi.

Link to Drama Otaku page with raws and subs (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/subtitle-project/ossan-no-pants-ga-nandatte-ii-janai-ka-1080p-dramaclub-2/

#144

Will watch soon

Features a side romance between two MLs, Naoki and Shun.

Link to Fansubber's Page (only has subs): https://2023paprikart.carrd.co/

Can find raws on free websites

#145

Waiting for subs

Likely features a continuing hinted romance between two MLs.

Platform/Subber not known yet

#146

Will watch soon

Ep 1 features a main romance between two FLs, Mio and Chiharu.

Link to Drama Otaku page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/korekara-haishin-wa-hajimemasu/

#147

Will watch soon

Features a central romance between two MLs, with a likely Bi ML and a Gay SML.

Link to Drama Otaku Page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/yuria-sensei-no-akai-ito/

#148

Hasn't released yet (for international audiences)

Main romance between two MLs.

This will be a really *interesting* one.

Platform/Subber not known yet

#149

On-Hold (will have to wait for it to finish being subbed)

Features a Lesbian SFL, Shindo Rui.

Link to Drama Otaku page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/host-souzoku-shichaimashita/?_tt=1711170716&_success=110291_1_1&_target=721464&cred_referrer_form_id=110291#cred_form_110291_1_1

#150

On-Hold (will have to wait for it to be subbed)

Features a Gay SML, Yaemori Shingo, FL Yaemori Arisu's father.

Link to Drama Otaku page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/chuubou-no-alice/

Will be subbed by @mikilove13: https://x.com/mikilove13fs/status/1751024740876067310?s=46

#151

On-Hold (will have to wait for it to be subbed)

Features a Gay ML, Katayama Nagisa, who likely has a romance with a SML.

Link to Drama Otaku page (will need an account): https://drama-otaku.com/drama/nigakute-amai/

#152

On-Hold {will have to wait for it to be subbed for free or pay for it (with no eng subs)}

Main romance between MLs.

Link to YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@ShochikuOfficial

#153

Main romance between two MLs.

EP 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INP86oVaICs

EP 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19OIRDJCKWo

EP 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K79DTP89hIo

For the life of me, I cannot find the final fourth episode with Eng Subs anywhere!