Sono Goen, Otodokeshimasu: Mercari de Atta Honto no Hanashi (2020)

The Simple Miracle of Human Connection

What are the ties that bind us? What connects two people? Is there really such a thing as fate?

In Sono Goen, Otodokeshimasu, Iitoyo Marie is Kuroe Riku, a delivery person for the application Mercari. Every episode is a stand-alone tale based on a true story, each one exploring the simple miracle of human connection: a failed musician and a diehard fan, a marriage on the brink of divorce, a blossoming romance between an artisan and her customer, a mother and her widowed neighbor, an expectant wife and her estranged mother, & lastly, Riku and her adoptive guardian—their chapter unfolding slowly in the background until a pivotal moment arrives that leads it to a close.

Even with Mercari’s presence (it’s part-promotion for the service, after all), the series has a heart. It grapples with human emotion in its rawest state. As Japan does best, things are quiet even as they explode, but it’s a muted affair that feels heavy nonetheless. This careful balance lets each episode stick—though we are with these characters for a short while, you’ll leave them while wondering where they might go.

If nothing else, then watch it just to appreciate its beauty. The whole affair is beautifully shot and directed—striking compositions with vibrant tones meeting believable human portrayals by an impressive cast.

If you’re looking for a simple drama, something that won’t take up your time but won’t waste it either, then it’s worth a chance.

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Very simple but delightful

I found this series delightful. The stories were very, very simple and understated, and sometimes you expected what would happen next. It wasn't anything groundbreaking, it wasn't especially poetic and it wasn't great art. That doesn't take away its endearing quality, its homely feeling, deep humanity and the smile it will bring to your face. Especially in our times of isolation nowadays, it's greatly comforting to focus on what connects us rather than what separates us. The connecting thread of the delivery girl was a nice touch, I like how we were briefly updated on all the previous stories as well and I greatly appreciate that they didn't go the tragic route when there was an opportunity, but resolved everything sweetly.

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