ATARU (2012)

The plot of ataru is clearly strange however there is more to it than just a savant syndrome person solving cases. there is a whole other premise behind it that reveals ataru's history and what he went through. by the end of the show you come to a more clear understanding about who ataru is and what he wants to do and how his childhood was. This drama is not just about the case solving and this is why it was a rather unique plot for me. Sure in the beginning you cannot believe that he can solve the crimes just for that but after you come go deeper in the story then you understand why he can do it.

The acting was superb. kuriyama chiaki is an okay actress but i feel her role in this with her other roles dun have much of a difference. However most of the other actors did a great job with their roles. You could definitely find them convincing.

The music of the drama, i do not remember it and it did not really bother me from focusin so i suppose it was complimenting it. As far as rewatching goes. Once you have watched it all, it would be hard to watch again with the same suspence.

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Personally i'm a fan of crime/investigation shows and this was a refreshing change from usual crime solving "structure".
SETTING: At times it was emotional and serious yet the characters and their relationships were fun and humorous. The solving i quite enjoyed especially how i, like the rest of cast was left to figure out the meanings behind Atarus clues.
STORY: The idea was unique especially the origin of Ataru and his life and how he become to be talented in investigations.
CASES: All the cases are labeled "waste dumps" aka something police wouldn't bother investigating because foul play doesn't seem to be involved.In that aspect the solving of these cases become more heartfelt as the (dead)victims are not considered victims of crime in the first place.
ACTING: it was good, Ataru himself was well played i didn't feel like he was overacting or trying too hard to be himself. Emotionally i think everyone did a great job especially after the cast begains to understand what Ataru goes through . The chief, loved him, he was the result of good casting. Lead females brother...hehe i don't about acting but he has been noted.


if you enjoy crime/investigation shows i wouldn't be too quick to rule this one out. Don't give up just after the first ep that would be a mistake there are great shows that start not so impressively only to impress you in the near future.

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