A Great Introduction To Japanese TV and Insight into Tokyo Of Old

Watched this in early 2022 and it kickstarted my renewed obsession with Japanese culture and language, which had been dormant for decades since high school. The pace is energetic, the settings are suitably 90s realistic (we remember those gritty times), the characters and actors deliver realistic cruelty, disillusionment or discontentment and the story is dynamic. It is after all, based on several angles of reality. You'll binge the series in a day and arrive at the end breathless, declaring: "Hang on! I need MORE!" Season 2 review in the coming weeks. "Follow" to get notifications of latest reviews ... Thanks for reading! Fumiyawagi

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The Japanese series, emotions driven, is far superior to others. You'll Love It.

It's been said many times, it's still true: nobody does pathos like the Japanese. Impeccable casting and emotionally layered script elevate this Japanese adaptation well above the others. Although this series was made in 2018, this show has lost not one iota of its magic.
Kento Yamazaki, portraying a genius doctor who maintains the joyful spirit of childhood, is one of Japan's top actors of his generation. His performance is magical and truly captures the complexity of this unique role.
Even the most hardened heart will openly weep at the poignant moments, particularly in the final episodes. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists, seamlessly transitioning from moments of profound sorrow and loss to scenes that inspire gratitude and joy.
In contrast to its Korean and American counterparts, the Japanese adaptation delves deeply into Shindo's professional relationships and his personal journey as a doctor, emphasizing his empathy with children rather than his pursuit of surgery.
It is a great tragedy, that there was just one season. The show could still screen with great success and an alternate male lead.
The incorporation of Shinto culture into the storyline adds a subtle yet enriching layer to the narrative. The scriptwriter also avoided unnecessary romantic subplots, instead choosing to focus instead on camaraderie and contentment, heartwarming moments and genuine smiles.
***Thank you for reading! feel free to Follow for more reviews! ~Fumiyawagi

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The Perfect Japanese Love Story

In three words: Do Not Miss. You Won't Regret. No plot spoilers: rest assured you may well be mesmerised by the impact of this masterpiece. Beautifully arranged with parallel timelines, necessary realism (sex scenes) in a few places, gentle emotive score and soundtrack, and 'less is more' editing, direction and acting across every aspect of this film. Allow yourself to be swept up across the storyline, and prepare to give your heart to the young lovers and their older counterparts. The thinking person's sex symbol, Mister Micro Expressions himself, Takeru Satoh, delivers a compelling role of profound masculine sensitivity and restrained passion that will define acting craftsmanship for years to come. Do real men cry? Yes, they do. If you are not familiar with Takeru and his body of acting work, do yourself a favour. Viewers may well hold their breath until most of the way into the last hour.

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry said: 'Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.' The same applies to this emotional masterpiece. It is the perfect length, story, acting and direction that will in time, define modern Japanese drama. You Will Love.

Personally, very few shows or films deserve near perfect ratings. This one kept your reviewer wondering until the very last 20 minutes, and provides deep thought for the remainder of the day.

All of us live with the question of 'what if...?" and this series explores what we do when the heart and mind open together.
Feel free to explore my other reviews to discover more exceptional Asian dramas. Thank you. ~Fumiyawagi

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Stunning On All Levels, A Must Watch Romance

I have rewatched the series and telemovie at least twice. This is a wonderful love story, that so many people will relate to. Akaso Eiji is one of those actors who can speak with eyes, and express emotions without saying a word, and has fantastic physical comedy ability; Keita Machida says so much with just a smile or simple movement. Several of the support actors really shine in the smallest moments. It should be made available on Netflix as it is such a fantastic, modern dramedy that begs for a huge audience. A do not miss ! Although it is highly restrained (the kisses are few and are disguised by elevator doors etc), the chemistry and love of the two MLs is obvious and you will watch with a smile on your face.

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Polished TV Production Honours Manga Origins

I loved the series and watched it twice over the 2024 new year. I particularly enjoyed the culinary conversations and even learned a few new tips. Jun Shison oozes sex appeal ... and appealing arrogance. Some viewers may be unaware Takahashi is a trained cook and Shison has recently directed a couple of short films. They are both absolutely outstanding actors on an ensemble of amazing talent in front of and behind camera. Would be wonderful to see a Season 2. But please, Director ... lose the awful Gaku bowl cut wig! Hiding the most handsome man in Japan! 😆
I would have liked more scenes of Ego Gaku, that period of the show serms too brief but
is very intense and Takahashi Fumiya again cements his potential as an amazing, emotionally powerful and broadly skillled actor at just 22 years of age. He typically plays brooding, moody types; check him out in the new movie release Our Secret Diary. I personally believe he could be a significant talent beyond Japan if he so wishes. Enjoy 👋

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Substantially Different To The Original, But Great Fun

Fans of Cherry Magic (Japan) will enjoy this very heartwarming series adapted to Thai social and office culture. The MLs are considerably more open and the workplace scenes are more direct and personal. The T-pop is fabulous, so have your Shazam and Spotty ready!
Talent abounds in this series: special mention goes to "Junior" Panachai Sriariyarungruang who portrays Tsuge/Jinta. Junior is a riot and brings amazing physical comedy and true heart to this role and elevates the entire series. He will go very far in his career, with careful script choices. And "Sing" Harit Cheewagaroon aka Rokakku / Rock is full of pep and stays true to the OG character, but also displays depth and credibility and has excellent potential as future serious romantic lead.
There is some drama overload with some side characters, reducing the MLs to background extras at times.
Thank you for reading! Please feel free to "Follow" for more reviews, or say hello! ~ Fuyimawagi

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Worth It Just For The Shower Scene

... and that's the only spoiler Fumiyawagi will give you, that Episode 2 contains one spectacular, blindingly sexy, clothing free minute for Keita Machida devotees. We are still watching the series and will update this review in due course. Keita is in almost scene and appears to be carrying the weight of the show.
We have watched several series and movies starring Keita Machida and believe he is destined for Hollywood, as a genuinely talented actor. No doubt when they find out he's shredded to the max, speaks 3 languages and has an Academy Award worthy smile ... the phone will be ringing off the hook! Creative Artists Agency, where are you?
Thank you for reading! Follow to be notified of future reviews! ~ Fumiyawagi

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