Thrilling Puzzles

This show quickly became one of my favorites from the beginning! Suda Masaki is almost like a chameleon the way he blends in to roles time and time again without leaving traces of old characters in them; though he does keep some of his own personality in his characters which is fascinating to watch!



The story follows "just a college student" as he helps the police figure out difficult or confusing cases full of puzzles me "what ifs". But with his on point observations and quirky personality, he has a great way of showing that each human (though different) can be such an amazing person!



The story is full of fantastic cast members that have created a superb and amazing story! The funny moments and sad moments are extraordinary to watch unfold, sometimes they're scary and sometimes they're bittersweet, but the humor continues to slip in almost unnoticed and everything balances to make an incredible story unfold!

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This story is gut-wrenching in the most beautiful and sincerest way possible. I experienced every emotion within this show: happiness, anger, tears, confusion, worry, heartbreak, gratitude, and even more.

Each actor seemed to go through a soul searching moment within each episode not only as the character they were cast for, but as themselves; it was wonderful to see each person delve deep within themselves, their surroundings, their family, their mental and emotional self, their friends, and their humanity to see them come out the other side as a new person. Some parts of it did seem a little "scripted", no pun intended and I know they were originally following a script because this is television, but...! As I watched this story play out, I realized it really could have been made as a movie but the separation between each "main character" is there for you to gather your thoughts and feelings from the previous person's story as a whole. If you just watched this story play out as a movie, I do not think the same feelings or final product would be what it is now.

It is a "human" drama. You won't get anything cheesy or too "lovey-dovey" or something filled with stupid action and dramatics. This story is about overcoming humanity's worst issues: death and the dying, whether they are alone or surrounded by loved ones; in a hospital or home alone. This show is something not to be missed, it is a genuine pleasure to watch life play out and to feel each emotion as it was meant to be: raw, painful, heartbreaking, and crushing. This is a story of humanity; all alone, but still together.

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This is a very sweet, genuine, honest, and so true to life that it hurts type of story! I do realize that three men (Sakama Masakazu, Yamaji Kazutoyo, & Michigami Maribu), however, the more you watch the more you realize that this story (their stories) are not theirs alone and are affected by and affecting the others around them.

This is a very open and raw story of how life as we know it works. The ups and downs, the romance and friendships, how the family lives, what is normal for one is not normal for another, and so on, and so on.... In fact, to me at least, it is scary how accurate this story is about life! Though, it's a little different for us viewers; we are very lucky to be able to see life first hand with such humor and genuine talent and respect from such wonderfully skilled actors and actresses (lol).

I believe that this show has something with which anyone and everyone can relate to! Each episode of this story fits so perfectly together that it was as if I was watching someone's honest real-life stories, and in its entirety is so overwhelmingly heartwarming and gut-wrenching with its roller coaster of emotions.

This story told the truth, I feel, about many of the troubles people(s) feel growing as a person, as a friend, as a family member, as a couple, as an employee, and as a human being. This story also had its embellishments, truthfully it did, but it is one that is so true to life as well. It's been a while since I've been so fully captured and entertained by a story!

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These two special episodes were the perfect way to end the original show! A very unique, sweet, detailed story of how the "alibi breaking" watchmaker got her start! The story fits perfectly within the show perfectly, so you should watch the drama first and then the two special episodes.

Personally, I would have liked to see more of Narita Ryo's character, but that's just my personal opinion; which you'll probably agree with/understand more when you watch the drama first.

The story was wonderful to watch! It was almost as if I was learning from Tokino's Grandfather by watching a video of a teacher's lecture instead of watching a drama's special episode(s). In some spots, the story did feel like it could have been expanded more (I also felt the same about the original drama) or that some information was left out; but maybe it also would have bulked up the show too much, maybe it would have made too much for two episodes.

The show and the special are not to be missed, I think it may be very underrated too because I happened across the show itself by accident! Do not let this series slip past you; it is amazing!

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Let me start by saying that while this drama was made among some bad rumors and reports of one of the main actors, that it doesn't make this drama any less interesting to watch, so please do not let your opinions or the reports cloud your view while watching!

I did like seeing a bit of role reversal in this show, it was refreshing to watch something a little different within the typical dramas/shows/movies/etc... of the detective, crime, mystery, investigation, and police genre. The more I watched this role reversal acting, the more intriguing the story becomes.

The stories seemed to follow the basic outline for the typical detective/crime stories, however, the script itself seemed to have a completely different basis. This show really is wonderful, even though there are only three episodes, and I do believe that it has the potential to be something; sadly, however, I'm not sure if anyone will take the chance on this show to remake it into what it could be.

It was fun to watch each story unfold from beginning to end with their different crimes and different stories! This is a good story to watch if you're in a slump, don't know what to watch next, or are just starting out watching Japanese or detective/crime/mystery dramas. Not once could I identify the suspect, though that could just be my stupidity! (lol)

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This show is more intricate and has more depth than the synopsis gives it credit for. I watched this show on a whim, however, I was definitely not let down by that decision. Each crime was a learning experience from many different angles.

The crime/mystery, in general, within each episode was pretty standard to some detective/police/mystery genre shows and movies I've seen before, however, the complete story of this series was something unique and filled with raw, real emotions and genuine talents.

Each episode seemed to fall away from the show's main storyline altogether, to focus on the crime that had happened, however, if you pay attention in each episode then you can definitely see the results of a great cast as they continue to build and create the story.

To be honest, I wasn't sure if Takei Emi was the right fit for an "unemotional, eccentric" weatherperson that just so happened to be a help to the police. Though the more I watched, the more I was completely wrong. I suppose that was because I'm used to seeing her as an upbeat, happy person that I may have been biased, and I'm glad I continued watching; she fulfilled her role spectacularly! I have to say that I am biased toward a few more actors as well: Okura Tadayoshi, Nomaguchi Tohru, Sasaki Kuranosuke, and Maruyama Tomomi. For some reason, they all just seem to fit within the roles they are casted as perfectly; as if that was their real profession.

It was nice to see how detailed the work of a television show, staff, newscaster, host, and weather person was; I've never seen that much attention to detail in a show or movie before. And as someone who likes the detective/mystery/police genres, it is nice to see differences every now and then, instead of something that is overused. I.E.: genius scientist helps the police, genius police, etc... if that makes any sense!

This review probably added more questions than anything, and I hope to clear that up if I edit this one someday; I can only apologize and say this review isn't too coherent because I've been sick for a week. I really do hope more people get the chance to watch this amazing show! The story and cast make this show superb, and very worth it to watch!

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If you go into anything always comparing it to something else, something different, then you're never going to appreciate what is in front of you at the current moment. I think I can see why most people (even if they did or did not watch the original Korean version) won't like this show; however, it does have it's merits that make it a great show!

To be honest, there were a couple of times where I thought of not watching anymore but to be honest as I "powered through" and continued watching this show became something amazing in its own right! The acting was on point with each episode; you could visibly see the cast of actors grow throughout each episode as coworkers, friends, and humans.

As people who worked in the world of the dead with police and media and the grieving families, their lives were turned upside down in the most tragic or simplest of ways and this show conveyed that to the viewers as genuinely, uniquely, and expertly as possible. You can tell the amount of hard work, respect, research, and education that went into the creation of this series, whether you watch the original Korean version or not.

There were points within this show that were some of the creepiest I've ever seen, and I don't watch horror or thriller movies/shows. The acting and storytelling within this entire show is something so superbly amazing that it should not be missed!

I'll say this once more: if you go in expect something different to be the exact same as its original, then there's no way you will be satisfied.

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This drama was not at all what I expected it to be. The synopsis itself is the truth but it also does a wonderful job at masking the true nature of the show unless you watch it!

This story is unlike anything I've seen before; though it does have some of the typical detective/police genre. However, that only goes as far as a couple of episodes, and yet, does not cover the entire 10 episodes. I have to say that this is one of the best dramas I've seen in a long time!

The show itself is a mystery. The real relationships of each character between themselves, their families, community, friends, coworkers, etc. are all mysterious to the viewer; however, if you watch carefully, you can notice the tiniest of details to see how each relationship not only forms but continues to grow, some even by miracles almost depending on who the person is. It is also true that the relationships are pretty clouded/hidden, you can't really tell who is related to who or even why they're related.

It all seems to occur within specific areas that hold importance, either to the show in its entirety or just to that character or point-in-time; such as the detective's office, a certain crime scene, Sensei's office, or the medical examiner's office. However, that does not mean the show is easily predictable, either for the crime, criminal, or reasoning(s).

Each actor, not to mention the screenwriter(s), have done their best to continuously keep the viewer "in the dark" so to speak. Not one episode has been predictable! I have guessed at a few episodes and completely missed, so I gave up on guessing who was the criminal. I have to say that the cast was spectacularly selected, either the main cast or the guest cast. Their skills, talent, personality, not to mention respect for the other actors/actresses and their job is tangible during each episode.

The ending of this series is something I could absolutely not have predicted! Whenever I assumed things lined up, they all disappeared within (almost) the next minute! I can honestly say that this was the most interesting mystery, police, detective drama I have ever seen. It almost deserves being called "perfect", though there are a few moments where I would disagree with that too. However, I'm going to end my extremely long review here and, hopefully, you will watch this spectacular show for yourselves!

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To face such dangerous scenes with superb medical care and understanding is what makes this show! I have not seen a show like this wonderful series before. The story is very well written and created by an amazing cast of actors and actresses; it's been nice to see a few (comedy actors) come out of their shells to create this fantastic story!

The story itself is one of genuine, heartfelt honesty to the dangers and bittersweet realities of the world, medical, hospital, general society, and even natural disasters. Tissues are a necessity when you watch this show, but there is also a lot of happiness and silly moments.

The first two I kept thinking that Okura Tadayoshi may not be the right main actor for this show, but as I continued watching I was repeatedly proven wrong! Okura Tadayoshi is one of the most superb actors in any medical series I have ever seen! I would like to see him in more medical series or movies to be honest!

I don't want to say this show is a hidden gem, but it's true that I haven't seen or heard a lot of talk for this show; however, I sincerely hope that changes quickly because it is an amazingly perfect show!

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This show is so much more intense and thrilling than any review, synopsis, or comment that I have read. I wanted to watch because of Hidetoshi Nishijima and a few others in the cast, but I also wanted to see why people continued to say it wasn't such a good show... To be honest, from my point of view, I think they're wrong. Though they are entitled to their own opinions and I hope I don't offend or make anyone mad!

This show is completely something else! I've never seen or read anything like it. The story is very unique and honestly open to the reality of the dark world of medicine, "mad scientists", and is full of the reality of heartbreak and mental issues. I've never seen any show, from Japan or elsewhere, so open and genuinely real with mental illness of any kind. That is without it being full of drugs, sex, explosions, and whatnot... I know I'm repeating myself but this show is one of the most real, genuine, and honest shows that deal with the reality of medicine and mental illnesses.

I really hope that more people give this show a chance! It is a hidden gem that is so fantastic to watch with the hopes of understanding mental and physical illnesses and the world of hidden medicines. I did not expect the ending at all!!

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While it's true this drama isn't very thrilling, it would be very wrong to say that it's boring!

The story is about a remote mountain clinic, which is pretty remarkable in and of itself! Off the top of my head, I can only think of 2 other dramas like this one and all of them are superb, well created and well shot, not to mention well scripted and well acted!

Each episode is different, but every single tiny little bit of each episode combines into one complete perfect story! This show is a medical story about life at an isolated clinic, so do not expect high action drama or romance side stories, though, there is a bit of drama and romance; however, it is very well balanced to not be too "overbearing" (for lack of a better word) in this exciting, medical, and true real life story.

Please do not lose interest in this show because it feels boring or because an actor/actress is "wasted" on this show, or because other people's opinions (hypocritical I know). This story and any other drama/movie/special that you want to watch should be YOUR choice and not influenced or made by anyone else! This show is an underrated gem and it is worth a chance.

Because of the cast and the medical, slice-of-life story this show is fantastic, and a definite must watch! I definitely did not expect the ending...

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If you like dark, suspense, thriller mystery dramas then this show is definitely for you! Not to mention, learning about shogi is a great bonus!

The show pulls you into a dark, swift-moving suspenseful drama full of history, haunting emotions, mysteries, and the dirty underside of life. If you blink you may miss something important, but the catch-up between each episode is pretty clear and concise, too. The characters succeed in making each episode full of information, yet end at the perfect cliffhangers; almost as if they themselves are glued to the edge of their seats, excited to learn more about the story themselves. And sometimes it seems just like watching a docu-drama.

Each member of the cast has brought so much pride and respect for this show that it's almost tangible to the viewer. The detective/police work is not as prevalent to the show as the shogi games themselves, however, it carries the show quite well at an even 50/50 for each episode. So there isn't really anything missing or different that would make this less of a detective/crime drama.

Yudai Chiba is marvelous in his role; its almost scary how many sides this man has. Each moment was skillfully crafted for each moment in history and for the building of the game(s). The feelings of each character are intense and very raw, completely honest with their characters and themselves. Reality itself bleeds away from each actor, and yourself, as you continue to watch.

This show is very thought-provoking from beginning to end. If the drama is this fantastic, then I can only imagine how wonderful the book must be!

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I'll start off this review by saying you have to watch the first season to fully understand and enjoy the second season. Which is completely common sense, I know, but this is a fair warning! Each moment of this show is genuine, dramatic, intense, real, heartfelt, and raw. This show is definitely not for the faint of heart.

The entirety of this show from season one to season two is almost perfection. From the writers to the directors to each individual staff member, and of course, to all involved cast members. Not one minute of the story is wasted; each moment of the story is planned and each detail is carefully laid out to tell a very surreal story!

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To be honest, this show is definitely not what I thought it would be! Do not let past reviews or comments bias you (ironic I know I'm sorry) however, I do believe that this show is such a hidden, underrated gem!

The assembled cast is superb, and it seems like this show was created especially for all of them to show off their skills and genuine, unique traits and talents for this series. I don't know why it was separated into two seasons, maybe to make a clean separation between one character and another, however, considering the way each episode was shot I do not believe that this scenario was necessary. Each story is shot almost as if with magic, each episode continues to build and build until the ultimate climax of the finale. Not one moment of this show is wasted time, information, or effort. The last episode definitely caught me off guard, I was not expecting such a dramatic or drastic turn!

This show is, as I said before, definitely like magic; be careful it does not fool you with its smoke and mirrors! While the left hand is distracting, the right hand is moving, too! The inner workings of society (as a whole and as a certain organization) were so real and accurately told that it was almost scary.

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Once again Kobayashi Kaoru does not disappoint; he's become one of my most favorite actors because of two series. I've quickly fallen in love with this man and his talents, not to mention his voice and the way he carries himself from one character and one story to the next. This movie is filled with a cast of stars and everyone makes each story something like a miracle.

Each story is filmed as if it were a present to the viewers. There's a lesson to learn within each episode, and you lose yourself within the moments of just watching and falling in love with each character and their story.

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