Beautifully done despite the difficult theme

Like most viewers, my initial thoughts about a romance with a large age-gap (and involving a minor) was that it is quite unconceivable. But this drama is so beautifully made that it compels you to comtemplate beyond the (obvious) morality and legal causes of such a situation.

The actor, Fuju Kamio, is a good choice for the role of Iko and displays much maturity in the role which is obviously not an easy one (even though Fuju was 19 when he acted here and not 15). Actress Eri Togunaga is actually acting her age as she is indeed in her 30s, which further made her role very believable. And of course, the chemistry is amazing.

Being directed by female directors is also refreshing, and you can see the colour coordination throughout the drama (Wako’s clothing, her handphone cover, the walls of her flat, cinema facade etc etc). Such fun details!

In my opinion, Iko’s liking for Wako could have started as a teenager’s infatuation (of a first love) especially after he experienced sexual novelty from her. And as how most teenagers treat their first love, it’s intense and very micro-focused. And it’s this innocent and committed ‘love’ displayed by him that makes their story so sweet, and heart-breaking at times. Wako on the other hand, has many more difficult decisions to make. She had a 2nd chance to leave Iko (when her handsome ex-bf proposed, plus the fact that she knows he is at an eligible stage of his life) and viewers can just empathise with her struggling emotions. And yes, we do not forget about the precarious situation that she has brought Iko into and how this can turn his life upside down.

It’s good that they eventually took a few years of time-out, because Time is always the best test for any relationship. Iko also has the chance to know if he really loves Wako or if he will grow out of a (very strong) infatuation. Love the music too (but not the movie-in-movie which I found a waste of time). Overall I really like this drama, pity there is no season 2!

Read More