Old Fashion Cupcake (2022)

wow, it's all good!

At 39, a salary-man Nozue (Takeda Kouhei) is dreading his stagnant daily routine - sleep, wake, work, repeat. Knowing about his frustration, his friend / subordinate, Togawa (Kimura Tatsunari) encourages him to try something different: pretending to be a pair of young girls together and eating at dessert parlours, as an anti-aging remedy. As they play along, Togawa calls out Nozue about his insecurities and keeps hanging out with him. With more time spent together, could love be what's next?

What a delightful office romance! Both Nozue and Togawa are equally charming. Glad that they use the senpai-kouhai hierarchy appropriately. Their intentional flirting and fun talks felt fresh and gave me all the butterflies. Beyond a cute sweet romance, Nozue's attitude towards Togawa adds a slight angst too. While genuinely wishing for Togawa to find more joy in life, Nozue also subtly chases him, leading to exciting possibilities for them. Shout-out to their scene at the end of episode 4! It was one of the most poignant and raw moments I've seen that got me on a chokehold.

The writing is smart, with spot-on comedy that highlights their personalities, character and confidence! Although the scenes are not spicy, the dialogues are SPICY! This also include their jokes and small gestures, that I immediately re-watched it to cherish the moments, I love them all! Acting is so natural and I hope to see more of their work. Also nice performance of all the supporting cast; Those girls at their office were a lovely bunch of fujoshis, blushing over these two men. ^-^ Lastly, I love it when Togawa said "I realized that you don't have to be young or a girl to have fun." There are many more great lines, though... You can go watch it to experience for yourself. :)

Read More

poignant and sweet, a really well done short BL series (minor spoilers)

Overall: I really enjoyed this more realistic/subdued BL (similar to Life Love on the Line). This is based on a manga but I'm rating it on its own. Watched on Viki.

Content Warnings: non con kiss (sleeping), dub con kissing, manhandling, trespassing, theft? (I don't consider the 10 year age gap or boss/employee to be a content warnings based on how things went)

What I Liked
- acting (I especially liked that Togawa was snotty when crying which is realistic)
- cute and caring moments, also a few really funny moments
- the food/desserts!
- cinematography (that long take scene at the end of episode 4 was amazing)
- although Nozue made more changes, I liked that Togawa also made a change in episode 5 based on what Nozue had said previously
- the subtle vibe
- good intro and song, as well as other music to fit the mood

Room For Improvement
- there were two times when I was so happy that Togawa respected Nozue's boundaries and then Togawa violated those boundaries which was disappointing
- the series would have benefited from a slightly longer run time (the abrupt and unknown time jump at the end as an example)
- a missed humor opportunity in episode 3, they could have shown Togawa frantically trying to clean up
- I think we should have had at least 1 kiss in episode 5, especially considering their ages

Read More

A bit too dense cupcake to swallow.

Ingredients might had been right, but the way they mixed them together wasn't. Too much flour. Too little sugar. The butter wasn't whipped enough. I can't pinpoint what exactly didn't work for me, but I will try. There will be spoilers ahead. As vague as I can make them, but still. So proceed at your own risk.



Issue number one : It's too short.

This one is pretty evident. 5 episodes of less than thirty minutes, so they had to cut some corners. Maybe even more than corners. The pacing wasn't much of an issue, but it felt kinda dry to me. Like they just went through the points they wanted to make in chunks, adding what seemed fitting to that particular scene. It lacked consistency. Some bits were too light and empty (especially the ones when they ate), while others were quite heavy and sticky. It felt uneven to me.

Should this be your usual college BL, it might have been fine. Because the audience is already used to it and can fill the blanks for themselves. They're also more familiar with the heavier stuff and hence you don't have to try so hard to show and provide context. Which leads me to my second point.



Issue number two: It feels too extrinsic.

This is entirely my personal problem, but one I feel a lot of people could share. The premise is quite unique, which makes it interesting at first. But it's also a curse in a way that if you don't do a good job presenting it in a comprehensive way, people might have trouble getting attached to it emotionally.

I couldn't relate to the main leads from the get-go. We just don't share enough of personal characteristics and experiences. So the show had its work set out for it: make me understand these people. See where they are coming from. Empathise with them. Feel for them and feel with them. This is the part where Old Fashion Cupcake failed the most in my opinion. During the whole series, I felt like an outsider spying on strangers. And as such, not only I was not moved by them, I started questioning the validity of their feelings.



Issue number three : Consent isn't exactly put into correct perspective.

I know. Complaining about consent in a BL show. Story as old as the industry itself, and seemingly missing a mark this time. Was there a rape? No. Forceful kissing? Forceful undressing? Not really. So why am I talking about consent?

The relationship between leads is very professional on the outside. They are boss and employee. Ten years apart, living in a society that puts immense weight on hierarchy and customs. Nozue stated that he's intending to keep those boundaries in place, even though he was clearly battling with the issue during the whole season. It was one of the main conflicts in my opinion. Which is why it felt uncomfortable when Togawa overstepped, without the show addressing it properly. I'm sure people that finished it can point out which scene, in particular, I have in mind. Should I go through the whole show again, I could most likely find multiple examples. Keep in mind, I'm looking at it from outsider's perspective, not really sure where each character stands with their emotions and values. If the premise were simpler, or the show longer and with better characterization, I probably wouldn't even stop to think about it. Might even enjoy it. But in this case, I was put off by it.



Issue number four: Message of the story isn't conveyed in a positive (to me) manner.

Starting with 'pretending to be girls'. Anti-aging. Nozue's struggle with technology. And in the end, sexuality. While I understand where they were going with it and align with their intentions, the way they went about it wasn't well-thought-out and could be misinterpreted easily. The gravest offender is, in my opinion, the ending message.


MAJOR SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING!!! TURN BACK NOW OR WEEP AFTERWARDS!


Togawa says to Nozue after they get together:

"Having an age gap or being a minority is the same as having different hometowns or cheering for a different baseball team.

It's nothing."

NOPE. Just no.

I get that he's trying to say it isn't much of an issue between them. Assuring Nozue that they can work through it. It could also be seen as one of those motivational messages advocating for a better world. An equal one. Our inherent differences shouldn't be a reason for judgement and discrimination. Good message.

But it felt SO DISMISSIVE to me!!! Bad. I'm legit angry about it! We don't live in a fairytale where everything is easily solved like that. Our differences don't all carry equal weight. Don't have equal consequences. It's not nothing.

END OF SPOILERS!!!


Just so I'm not only putting the show down, let's mention some positives. It's still a japanese BL adaptation. So the visuals, music, cinematography and acting are pretty good, as expected. It's very high quality.

The premise itself isn't bad. Quite the opposite. It's very good. Unique. Interesting. Needed to be portrayed in my opinion. The wording is also good, for the most part. I just don't think it was executed well.

It's fairly low-effort to watch, so you can try it even if you have some reservations. It doesn't have any major jumps in terms of quality and overall feel of the drama.

In the end, I don't think it is a bad show. I believe it's worth trying for everyone. And it can surely be enjoyable, if you like your cupcakes old-fashioned. I don't.

Read More

I'M IN LOVE!<33

Where should I start? I completely fell for this BL. Like really...one of the best i've seen so far!

STORY: I really like not so complicated, mature BLs and if the story is some kind of office love? It's the best! Yes, it's not really something original but the "anti-aging" activities the main characters did together were really nice and I don't think I've ever seen that before. It was sweet but it also has a meaning. Even if you're not in your teens and you have plenty of work, you still can enjoy time and even if u're a man in his 40s, you still can enjoy funny and sweet talks in cafe with your bestie :>
Also love how it wasn't toxic at all :)

ACTING: They all did such a good job! I liked every character and I liked the way they all played their roles. I don't have anything more to say because i really liked it.

MUSIC: Nice :) It never felt like it didn't suit the moment.

REWATCH VALUE: I will definitely rewatch it sooner or later. There's no way I wouldn't rewatch it!

OVERALL: Love it ( as you propably already noticed lmao )! It's not toxic, nice story, good acting,...Really if you need something fresh, not toxic with ( spoiler? ) good ending, watch this. Also you can binge watch it so even if you don't like it, it won't consume much of your time. That's propably one minus, it's short. Yes again, idk what would happen if it was longer but i definitely wish to see more of the couple :) It could have been at least 1 episode longer to be honest, but I'm not mad.
Definitely adding on my list of favourite BLs <3

That's all, have a good day and don't worry about things. Everything will be alright even if it may look like it will never get better. It will, healing takes time :) stay strong, love you <33 feel free to share your opinions or anything here in comments :)

Read More

A little bit of sugar won't give you diabetes and might enhance your platter <3

I don't know if I can find any bad part in this BL even if I search with my magnifying glasses on...all I can see is spotless acting and raw transparent adult emotions with relatable characters to swoon over.

YES it's cute, fluffy, refreshing and calming.
For me the most beautiful thing is that Togawa didn't forced his feelings on Nouze-san, this story happened naturally. Being single and close to 40 Mr. Nouze must have felt his life boring and uninteresting. At that time Togawa came into his life like a breath of fresh air. They both understood their boundaries as subordinates.

They are adults in love and but can giggle like a child over little things.

I can conclude this as a healthy BL to feed on whenever you're tired. Plots like this tells us that love at first sight still do exist and stays for a longer time, which makes me wonder why something like this doesn't happen to us :')

Read More

One of the best japanese BL I have watched

For those who are wondering, this serie has a *happy ending*

I love everything about this series. Maybe the only thing I would have liked more, is for it to be longer. But if you really think about it, it's total length is almost a movie.

First of all, they followed the manga to a T. Even the whole series followed the full volume one of the manga, except for the extras, which I had hoped they included as well in the series because it contains some cute, steamy scenes.

Next, I love the acting and the actors. Togawa especially have acted the best. I can really feel their emotions in their eyes, so it is really apparent when they'd fall in love. I also really love both of their characters. Togawa is just a really straightforward ikemen who wanted to be with Nozue any moment he wants and he really grabs it.

Also, the communication in this serie is *chef's kiss*

I hope they have a season 2 because the manga has a second volume, and I am loving it. I deeply recommend this serie to all readers. You'll definitely love this!

Read More

Sweet Spot for this drama

I’m always going to be disappointed by how short Japanese dramas can be. But that also has very good reasons, this drama doesn’t waste time and each minute is spent well.

Developing characters I care about than even 16 hours of any other drama is pretty impressive. Rather than staying safe and doing what’s commonly done by overplaying the BL aspect of this show, Old Fashioned Cupcake doesn’t. This show really takes its time developing the main relationship of the show, and while others might find it dragging- I think it’s realistic and a respectful story.

The relationship of Togawa and Nozue starts from respect. The main base holding it together is that they respect eachother a lot. What I’m saying here is that this relationship is healthy and I’m so happy to see it. It could’ve taken the route of obsession and possessive attitudes, trying to seduce your boss out of lust alone. That’s not the case here. Instead Togawa has a genuine respect for Nozue and had never became that way out of intimidation. It’s never blatantly said until episode 4 that Togawa likes Nozue, but the acting really is spot on here in showing that he clearly does. For both actors, I’m so glad that they have chemistry and I’m so immersed by their acting that I feel like I really am watching something real.

The stand out part of this drama is the tender moments between the two. It’s a slice of life, where Nozue is getting to his 40’s and lives day by day, he has his relationships and friends and is adored by his staff but he isn’t living as happily as he could. The potential happiness that could be fully reached when finding your person is amazing and so beautiful to think about. This drama tells that sort of story so well. Nozue and Togawa are happy together and they acknowledge and tell eachother that they bring out the best for eachother. Nozue does compare with Togawa in terms of his age but it’s not in a toxic way, they share their vulnerabilities with eachother and gradually that’s how they become closer and that’s how as a viewer you really care about their relationship.

This drama is subtle, but puts in the intense moments in the right parts that isn’t over stressed. Specifically episode four, after four episodes of watching their relationship become more tension, Togawa can’t sugarcoat his feelings by brushing them off, he admits he likes Nozue. He doesn’t want to burden Nozue with his feelings and is careful and respectful with his words, I really like how he never had forced anything on him. And in moments he felt he had he apologizes. It’s heartbreaking how they see the flaws in their relationships from their age, gender, and status as co-workers. But it’s realistic. Neither of them are homophobic, and instead Togawa believes that his kind of love is out of the normal for most, but normal for him. He’s not ashamed of his feelings, he’s only careful about them. Togawa cares about Nozue so much that he thinks about his feelings even when irrationally sharing his true feelings.

The music in this drama amplifies any feelings of worry, love, sadness, etc. Nothing in the drama overstays it’s welcome and I’m bitter about it only being 5 episodes, but as for what it is- this drama is amazing.

Read More

A warm cup of coffee with a side of dessert

In as little as 5 episodes, Old Fashion Cupcake immediately became one of my top BLs. It has a clever way at navigating the ups and downs of adult life, heteronormativity, and the sensual symbols of food.

The film work is so captivating, and often seamless with its transitions. The warmth in colours has a perfect contrast with subtle pans to the main leads as they struggle to find self-acceptance.
The acting is hands-down one of the best performances I have seen in a long time. The actors delivered strong communication, often without spoken words, and displayed a healthy dose of cheesiness to break the tension. One scene has a long single take, which immediately puts you in a state of awe because of how determined these actors were to get the scene right.
The characters felt breathable; as in, they were walks of ordinary life, with relatable struggles. You feel attached to some of the characters' personalities, which I believe is a strong point in this series.
The chemistry with the leads leaves you enamoured. The intricate ways of how they share their hidden love through meeting each other more and more leaves you both on the edge of your seat and adoring the bond they have. They work fantastically well.
I am teetering between wanting more and leaving it as is. Five episodes may seem like too little, but you'll be surprised with how, in this rare instance, the length isn't a problem at all.
Give this show a watch.

Read More

This is a phenomenal story told tenderly and enchantingly

This is a simple basic story of love. Stated with great care with a complete understanding of the characters. And proves that even in a repressed society filled with rules, protocols, and defined traditions, you can still flourish love. And define clearly what that love is and subsequently earn a place in perhaps your own peaceful, loving world. This story is a remarkable, unpretentious tale of love between two rather sequestered men who know exactly what is happening to each other and in the end, summon just enough gritty determination to overcome the societal shackles of ‘acceptable’ behavior. Just remarkable in its softness and beauty.

Read More

Love the main actors.

I can't believe this is rated so low! That is truly criminal, the acting and story are fantastic and the chemistry between these two is EVERYTHING! I'll be so sad once it ends next week, wish it was longer. I am happy I stumbled on to this, but mostly it was because I did an specific BL search looking for something else, not because it was promoted in any way. The acting specially in above par, wonderful actors indeed. The film style also deserves praise, the camera angles, the way small little touching details were filmed, the slow but at the same time perfect development of their friendship, all of it was done with such care.

Read More

Its Only Five Episodes, You Might Aswell

i liked this series because its short, easy to follow, its straightforward, super sweet and sappy and lovey-dovey, and, i dont know if this is a spoiler, but theres NO love triangle and no complicated drama, it just focuses on the two main characters and their relationship and that is IT

the show wasnt great because of their awkward acting, neither of the dudes really seemed like they knew how to act like theyre in love with a guy, whether thats because they dont know what its like to be in love with a guy (idk their personal life so im not going to just assume) or whether its due to bad directing and trying to stick to the mangas scenes panel for panel even when it looks weird executed in live action (i havent read the manga so i cant tell for certain), or whether its due to something compeletely different, it was only 5 episodes so i got through it
its not a dealbreaker to me simply because of the short amount of episodes, buuut a lot of it just seemed forced and awkward which i think happens a lot with the mlm series i've watched that are inspired by mangas
that being said, even doe i think their physical acting was bad, like their body language and skinship and stuff, their verbal delivery was really good imo (: they say some really sincere lines, i dont know japanese and could only tell based on subtitles, but i do think they spoke very clearly and emotionally, some lines REALLY hit my heart

anyways, all i can really say is:
since its only 5 episodes, You Might Aswell
go watch this short short series if you want something extremely sappy and cute with great lines, and you can use your imagination to make the weird awkwardness between these grown men in their thirties into proper vulnerability and clear emotional communication, or maybe you enjoy dudes in their thirties acting like teenagers, that is okay too, in that case, this is exactly a show for you!
thank u and Goodnight

Read More