Dragon Zakura 2 (2021)

Darker, Modern and Uplifting

I was able to see the first season where the cast are now big names in Japan and I did not expect that there is a S2 of this until I happen to check on Abe Hiroshi's filmography.

What I like here is that everything is modern and diverse. There is a gay educator and the chairmoan supports it, the chairman herself is not the typical Japanese principal who is akways against the villain. I like how the Chairman actually cares about the students and is willing to help Sakuragi sensei make these students pass the Todai exam even if the cost is her position. Also, Sakuragi sensei somehow becomes more intelligent when it comes to sensing unusual things that comes in his way.

There are also more students involved this time and they are diverse. Still, there are parents who are either inferior about their child getting more education than them, parents who has set a plan for their child even if it cause their child to suffer more.

Also, for some reason, the plot summary here is not really the same as how the story progress. Its a different school after all and the problem is way more deep.

I also like how the story progress when I initially thought that some of his former students kind of betraying Sakuragi and Mizuno sensei. I love how they are actually helping him unravel the real villain of the story. I have predicted about Sakamoto but not Yoneyama.

Also, some of Sakuragi sensei's speeches kind of hit home because of what I am feeling during the time that I watched it. Though some of them are overaching and may not be very applicable to the real world scenario but there are some that definitely defines your dilemma and what you can do about it as an adult.

What I only hate here is that, the pedo coach as well as the female lawyer did not receive their punishment. Also, the sakura tree is not highlighted much on this season unlike on S1 where it blossoms after their Todai exam.

All in all, this is a good and refreshing student series and I wish that they make a new season after 2 years or so.

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The most interesting things was seeing the cast who were not as famous back then as they are today. Looking back now, it feels special because many of them have become some of the most popular and respected actors in Japan. Seeing their early performances in this drama gives the series an extra charm.

The new generation of students was enjoyable to watch. Each character had their own struggles, insecurities, and reasons for wanting to change their future. Their journey was inspiring because the drama showed that success doesn't come easily—it requires effort, courage, and the willingness to challenge yourself.

Abe Hiroshi once again brought strong energy as Sakuragi Kenji. His strict but passionate teaching style remained one of the highlights of the series. His speeches about education, society, and believing in yourself were still powerful, and he continued to be the heart of the story.

However, compared to Season 1, I personally felt that Season 2 was not as impactful. The first season had a stronger emotional connection because watching the original students transform felt more surprising and memorable. The struggles of the characters in Season 1 also felt more personal, making their achievements more satisfying.

this series is still a good motivational school drama with a talented cast and meaningful messages. It has many exciting moments and is worth watching, especially to see the early performances of actors who later became big stars. But for me, Season 1 still has a special feeling and remains the stronger and more unforgettable series.

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