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Easily the emotional warming series of this decade to date ?
When episode 10 ended, it felt like saying goodbye to dear friends. The Hot Spot grabs you in a very subtle fashion and before you realise, you are completely enveloped in a warm, funny, quirky, friendly hug. If you love slice of life, ordinary characters, unusual plot lines and ... and a regular view of Fuji-San, then you're gonna LOVE this! So many laughs, and towards the end, it will totally hit you in the feels. Bakarhythm has written a superb script and every actor plays their role so well. Kudos to the director and entire cast and crew for creating this very special gem. ENJOY 😃🙏Was this review helpful to you?
A Delight To The Senses, Must See Film
This film is one you will remember for the rest of your life. Guaranteed. A timeline tale of how arrogance can change fortunes, set with stunning detail across a film that will hold you captivated. The entire cast and crew have done an outstanding job of transporting audiences back to Old Japan, and across the decades of cultural change.Stunning, intricate costumes with time period settings and scenery, even the colour grading is matched to resemble the relevant decades. The story is a powerful one that will leave you thinking for hours about fame, fortune and ego.
If ever there is a stage or TV adaptation, recommend Kazuya Kamenashi for the ML. While watching this film, it seemed to present potential to create a vehicle with smaller stories across multiple timelines. Enjoy.
Viewed at the Japanese Film Festival in Brisbane, Australia, Nov 2025.
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A fascinating *mature* BL drama that's sensual, seductive and highly rewatchable
"HAI ! WE NEED A SEASON 2, KUDESAI !"The finest mature JBL of the year so far — This Is A Do Not Miss. Also extremely useful for language learners, as the conversation is normal polite pace and easy to follow.
Both leads, Furuya Robin and Hasegawa Makoto, play their roles to perfection as the highly likeable, playful eagle and his confused but willing prey. If you like jealous villains on the side, this is your show too!
Made for adults, with chemistry so electric you'll rewind the scenes that are dripping with sensuality and passion. Trust me, you'll hit replay within the same week, maybe even the same day. And fight the urge to skip ahead to the steamy scenes.
All 6 of the 25 minutes episodes dive deep. We witness both characters peel back each other's layers, leaving us wondering: is it manipulation, seduction, or revenge? The suspense, juicy dialogue and mystery will have you craving more.
Enjoy the fantastic assistant played to perfection by Takamatsu Aloha, with his razor sharp campy queen one liners; the little dashes of Japanese style symbolism throughout (the pursuer devouring a redundant engagement cake, matching yakuta gowns, etc), a fair bit of above waist action and plenty of oh so sensual kissing, a dash of gay guilt melodrama, and several amusing moments: this series is a delightful ride. Accomplished screenwriters Watatane Aya and Yasukawu Yuke have absolutely delivered quality in this series.
Also appreciated, is the beautifully edited sequence featuring both main characters and their younger selves, along with energetic opening and closing tunes and a romantic musical score throughout. Although the music occasionally drowns out the dialogue, hopefully this will be fixed next season.
Each episode closes to Ayumu Imazu's thumping dance track "Bandage", a toe tapper that perfectly suits the emotional rollercoaster and smouldering sexual energy of the show. I guarantee you will find yourself bopping along to it in the car or bus!
*** Thank You For Reading! "Follow" to be notified of the next review! ~Fuyimawagi
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Strong Premise But Plays Very Safe
I really, *really* wanted to love this. It doesn't really pick up until Episode 8. The finale felt somewhat rushed or lazy. This is a cross cultural series that should work: gorgeous couple, strong supporting cast, award winning ML, and Korean FL with impressively learned Japanese. All the right ingredients are there. It just feels built around safety. Maybe you will feel differently. There's a lot of box ticking going on, well worn tropes galore.Akaso feels underused and very mature for this role. He works hard. If you’ve seen him in the film 366 Days, you know how compelling he can be. Here, it feels like a bankable name was chosen over best fit. Kang did her best with a one dimensional character that is melodramatic and constantly needy, and little nuance to explore.
Pacing and potential is the biggest issue. It probably would have been a great binge series, but drags as a weekly. The story arc moves in slow circles. With sharper timing, fewer clichés and more creative courage, this could have been genuinely compelling. I watched to the end, but disappointed with the sluggish pace and characterisation.
The other thing that annoyed me, most of the key actors are playing almost a decade below their actual age and so there's several instances of super soft focus. If they hired age appropriate actors, instead of well known stars with guaranteed "bankability", this show might have been amazing for many reasons.
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Superb ensemble cast, settings and story
This is a long series with long episodes, perfect for zoning out after long days at work etc. Here we see PBG in a very early role, possibly written with him in mind, as a younger suitor with a mature and wise outlook to an older lady, who has never been in love. The series is cast well with high quality sets scenery and costumes, the attention to production values is evident. be warned the story drags a little in the middle episodes, but pay attention as the power and political side stories build. Enjoy!Was this review helpful to you?
Michelin supervised, drama galore! must watch
LOVE CUISINE? This.Is.Do.Not.Miss. 🌟🌟🌟 "Maison" is a totally enjoyable ensemble with high production values and a wonderful underdog theme of survival, triumph and forgiveness.The authentic Michelin detail and supervision is *very* evident from the beginning, and if I'm not mistaken, the show features dishes from real 3 star Japanese restaurants like Quintessence (goat bavarois). There is a strong affinity and cultural relativity between Japanese and French food culture: detail, balance, palette sensitivity, social considerations and more. "Japonaise" is a very natural marriage which is why the cuisine and locale collaboration works so well.
Special mention goes to Oikawa Mitsuhiro, often cast as a selfish alpha; here, as Akinawa we see him as a softer, more vulnerable character -- a parent living with a parent, a father struggling to keep his family together, a team player rather than self absorbed. He plays his part with appropriate emotion and restraint.
impressive sets and costume detail reinforce the impression that this show expects to be taken seriously.
The new TBS+Netflix collaborations allow us to enjoy more "golden era" J-doramas on streaming, ahead of their new sequels. With Season 2, Maison and another refresh, Black Forceps, have a new opportunity to present their worthy cast and crew to a fresh new global audience. Let's support that ethos. Bon Appetit!!
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Even Better Than Season 1 - More Please
This is such a heartwarming series and so professional in every way. The second series definitely provides scope for a third season or telemovie, As series 2 approached the end, I started to feel sad and it really did feel like saying goodbye to old friends. The relationship is explored on a deeper level this time and it's very satisfying. Viewers aged over 40 will most enjoy this series but anyone who loves a well written and cast plot about everyday relationships, suburban slice of life and home cooking will enjoy it.One of the best scenes in this season will have viewers appreciating that ordinary love is beautiful; or realising how empty their life might be without a partner who is caring, creative, stable or mentally present. It's a lovely touch.
The whole show flows well, when the right actor is cast in even the smallest roles. I enjoyed the guest appearance of Oikawa Mitsuhiro, one of my personal favourite Japanese actors. He often plays villains with total perfection, was brilliant in Fermat No Ryouri aka Fermat's Cuisine, and here he fills a few minutes here so very well, as the @sshole ex we'd all prefer to forget (!).
Special note also to the regular appearance of Tidano Miako, the supermarket assistant who always points out a good bargain to Shiro in a hugely comedic fashion. It's not the size of the role, but the talent of the actor that makes a difference.
Season 3 could explore several concepts: Shiro's mother finally agrees to meet Kenji on a regular basis, or both sets of parents meet, more mature development of Wataru (and perhaps slightly more background on that relationship, but not too much), Shiro finally comes out at work, bumping briefly into the awful ex who is either miserable or moved on and of course will never admit or apologise, Kenji permanently becomes salon manager, Shiro and Kenji take on the role of quasi grandparents to the neighbour's young grandson (that would be nice, I can see Kenji shopping for tiny jeans and toys) ... there's a number of possibilities.
I encourage the production team to consider creating another telemovie or series, and also the prospect of contracting to Netflix so the rest of the world loves Shiro and Kenji, too! There are strong possibilities for remakes in other cultures.
THANK YOU FOR READING! Please also read my review on Season 1 and feel free to "Follow" to be notified of my other reviews! ~ FW
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Charming, Honest and Heart Centred
One of the few dramas with no romance, just an intriguing story that our household enjoyed to the end. I also recommended this series to friends. There are not enough drama with seniors and middle aged people, in my opinion, so this one was refreshing in its focus on a long retired man with a surprising dream. His whole family are absolutely against it. But others support him in his quest. It's also a show about friendship between generations. Just watch it.. I know you will enjoy it immensely. Thank you for reading! Feel free to Follow me for more reviews. ~FW
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The Japanese series, emotions driven, is far superior to others. You'll Love It.
It's been said many times, it's still true: nobody does pathos like the Japanese. Impeccable casting and emotionally layered script elevate this Japanese adaptation well above the others. Although this series was made in 2018, this show has lost not one iota of its magic.Kento Yamazaki, portraying a genius doctor who maintains the joyful spirit of childhood, is one of Japan's top actors of his generation. His performance is magical and truly captures the complexity of this unique role.
Even the most hardened heart will openly weep at the poignant moments, particularly in the final episodes. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists, seamlessly transitioning from moments of profound sorrow and loss to scenes that inspire gratitude and joy.
In contrast to its Korean and American counterparts, the Japanese adaptation delves deeply into Shindo's professional relationships and his personal journey as a doctor, emphasizing his empathy with children rather than his pursuit of surgery.
It is a great tragedy, that there was just one season. The show could still screen with great success and an alternate male lead.
The incorporation of Shinto culture into the storyline adds a subtle yet enriching layer to the narrative. The scriptwriter also avoided unnecessary romantic subplots, instead choosing to focus instead on camaraderie and contentment, heartwarming moments and genuine smiles.
***Thank you for reading! feel free to Follow for more reviews! ~Fumiyawagi
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The Perfect Japanese Love Story
In three words: Do Not Miss. You Won't Regret. No plot spoilers: rest assured you may well be mesmerised by the impact of this masterpiece. Beautifully arranged with parallel timelines, necessary realism (sex scenes) in a few places, gentle emotive score and soundtrack, and 'less is more' editing, direction and acting across every aspect of this film. Allow yourself to be swept up across the storyline, and prepare to give your heart to the young lovers and their older counterparts. The thinking person's sex symbol, Mister Micro Expressions himself, Takeru Satoh, delivers a compelling role of profound masculine sensitivity and restrained passion that will define acting craftsmanship for years to come. Do real men cry? Yes, they do. If you are not familiar with Takeru and his body of acting work, do yourself a favour. Viewers may well hold their breath until most of the way into the last hour.Antoine de Saint-Exupéry said: 'Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.' The same applies to this emotional masterpiece. It is the perfect length, story, acting and direction that will in time, define modern Japanese drama. You Will Love.
Personally, very few shows or films deserve near perfect ratings. This one kept your reviewer wondering until the very last 20 minutes, and provides deep thought for the remainder of the day.
All of us live with the question of 'what if...?" and this series explores what we do when the heart and mind open together.
Feel free to explore my other reviews to discover more exceptional Asian dramas. Thank you. ~Fumiyawagi
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Modern Issues, Fresh Perspective
This one really deserves a sequel so we see how the MLs progress in the future. Am now planning to read the manga as it apparently ends differently. A heartwarming, fast paced, realistic perspective on living with, or loving, different ability, and the people who do not judge others as "less". Good to see acceptance woven throughout the ensemble cast and across the script. Also very realistic in that often PWD will retreat from social situations that cause difficulty or inconvenience for others. Some very lovely scenes of modern campus life and friendship, realistic male conversations and positive older role models such as Grandpa. The 12 episodes are short and will fly by. Highly Recommended!Was this review helpful to you?
A Fascinating Flip On Parenthood
What would the world be like if men were working, birthing parents? Would work conditions improve, or stay the same? Would women be empathetic? Would bosses be more humane? These and many other issues, are explored in this clever modern drama.One of several recent dramas brought into the Netflix stable, the show is 8 episodes of pleasant and enjoyable surprise. Written with pathos, intelligence and quirky humour, this drama clearly highlights, without lecture, how far society has come and how much further to go, in advocating for new parents and families. Short episodes, a well chosen lead, good pace and some really intuitive developments. Even in 2024, it’s easy to see there is a lot of room for advancement. Enjoy! 🌟👋 F
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It's Not That I Can't Marry. I Don't Marry.
1 people found this review helpful
A slow script with outdated notions even in 2016. Strictly for Naohito fans
Feel free to skip over the middle episodes, where you can instead appreciate Naohito-san's performance and indulge in some mindless entertainment for a few hours. It's entertaining when approached with that perspective in mind.The premise of a successful woman doctor approaching 40 who suddenly needs a boyfriend to conform to societal expectations, insults modern professional women and fails to resonate with contemporary audiences. This concept would have felt outdated in 2016, 2006 and even during the 'girl power' age of 1996. Nakatani Miki admirably navigates a character that offers limited depth and credibility, as a highly capable doctor and businesswoman who inexplicably lacks confidence. It's reasonable to expect a medical postgraduate with a thriving cosmetic business, would exude a certain level of self assurance.Fujiki Naohito's performance always delivers exceptional quality and his hallmark dedication to quality in every role is always evident. Viewers are strongly recommended to also check him out in "The Doorway to Summer" alongside Kento Yamazaki. In this series here, Naohito brings to life a wonderfully over-the-top character, reminiscent of his charismatic hairdresser role from "Last Cinderella" a few years back. His portrayal dominates and elevates the narrative and injects much needed energy and charisma. While the cast demonstrates competence in their respective roles, the storyline feels extremely antiquated and the pacing often feels sluggish. For true actor fans only and useful to pass time between other dramas.
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Heart warming, short and sweet
This short and sweet 5-part series, reminiscent of many outstanding Japanese dramas of late, delivers a story that leaves us craving more episodes and deeper character exploration.The always reliable and charming Keita Machida, sporting his Cherry Magic haircut and brown attire, portrays a charming barman in an unpretentious suburban bar that he runs with 2 former school mates.
We were pleasantly surprised to discover the 3 Star Bar served canned food, expertly prepared by a chef — a twist that adds an unexpected layer of humor to the plot, compared to step-by-step cooking shows such as Fermat's Cuisine and What Did You Eat Yesterday. Yet, somehow, this plot device works! Adapted from a manga series, of course, which often have a quirky point of interest.
Although it takes a few episodes to build momentum, viewers will find themselves drawn to the characters, guest and the stories. The show skillfully used flashbacks of the late bartender, akin to a cherished grandfather, imparting wise advice to patrons and loved ones. Further exploration of this character would have enriched future episodes.
Some dramas, much like the sakura season, dazzle with their brilliance only to fade away all too soon. The final episode highlights the overall production quality of the series, which does not insult us with rushed stories and silly resolutions; just a quietly enchanting tale that leaves us yearning for more.
A second season or more episodes would have been a marvellous opportunity to explore the back stories of the 3 leads with greater depth: the published Hemingway-esque writer grappling with writers block and divorce, a humble bartender with a nightly chauffeur, a chef who loses and recovers his sense of taste. However, all three of the leads have been very busy since 2021, so clearly this will remain a limited and very short series.
Embrace this series for what it really is —a fleeting cherry blossom that warms the soul for a brief moment in time.
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The Perfect Japanese Art Film - A Must Watch
This film that will remind viewers of love and loss, but also guide us to appreciate what is special and beautiful in life. Especially cats.Eight years on from its release, "If Cats Disappeared From The World" maintains its gentle, existentialist, and esoteric appeal, as a possible Japanese homage to Ingmar Bergman's cinematic masterpiece, "The Seventh Seal" (a knight plays chess with Death on the beach), while staying true to Japanese social culture.
Satoh Takeru has enjoyed a powerful career since this film, and is renowned for tackling emotive roles that other actors might find difficult: he can weep big, manly tears and in the same scene, ponder the magical wonder of the universe. And that, my friends, is why he is so in demand today as "The Actor's Actor" and the intellectual person's sex symbol. He turned 35 just a few days ago and has already amassed an amazing acting portfolio. He's headed for Hollywood: watch that space.
Here, the dialogue is beautifully restrained; the music punctuates the scenes with pulsing electronica and gentle piano in alternate scenes of joyful youth and inevitable tragedy. Satoh skillfully balances dual roles, capturing the essence of a dying postman and his irreverent alter ego, amid flashback scenes highlighting the cycle of life.
*** THANK YOU FOR READING! "Follow" to be notified of more reviews. Enjoy! ~Fumiyawagi
28 March 2024
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