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BrightestStar
Turns out, there's really no place like home
This was one of the dramas I wasn't planning on watching, then started out of boredom but turned out to be a pleasant watch. Watching it made me forget all my problems and the things I stress about, and gave me a warm feeling. I enjoyed every second of it. I can't say they it has anything that stand out, but more of a number of things coming together in harmony and giving us this heartwarming fun dorama.
The drama is really about bringing people together. The title is about the ever changing form a family takes as time goes on and how we find ways to adapt at every upcoming change. I love that our hero Daisuke, played by Katori Shingo (my first time watching him - he did pretty well) is a typical introverted who treasures his time alone, only to have to deal with his extraverted father Yozo, played by Nishida Toshiyuki, who has no consideration for such issues. Another highlight is the growing relationship between Daisuke and his new ototo, and mostly the hearwarming relationship between Yozo-san and Kota. Then there's Ueno Juri playing lonely Hanako, with her lazy demeanor that takes out her boredom by complaining about anything, getting nicknamed *Complainer Hanako*. I enjoyed her bickering relationship with Daisuke, her mother, played by the lovely Fubuki Jun. Actually my favourite part of the drama was the relationship of Yozo and Ricchan and how they affected everyone around them with their warmth. Arakawa Yoshiyoshi as Daisuke's colleague doubled the fun, and the addition of Tanaka Kei was a great welcome. That guy needs to get a leading role next!
There were more. It's a huge cast and the drama gave the spotlight to most of them, and we saw both main and supporting characters grow throughout the drama.
Nishida Toshiyuki was at the center of it all. He brought lightheartedness to the drama, but can be a firm father figure when needed to, and when he gets emotional you can't help but get carried away by it. There were many instance I understood Daisuke's frustrations, and it would've drove me crazy if I was in his place, but the moment Yozo-san makes amend or explains himself, I just can't help feel for him and want him to be forgiven.
Anyways fun drama worth checking out ;)
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As for the plot, it basically is a Chinese version of The Count of Monti Cristo transposed in Chinese empire. However, the story felt grander than the original French novel, and more than just a revenge tale. It is a story that goes beyond life and death, but setting the truth free. We are introduced to Mei Chang Su, a sickly man and part of the pugilistic world. He has established the Jiangzuo Alliance, a very powerful alliance with eyes and ears basically everywhere. Such power has given Mr. Su the title of Divine Talent. Two princes that are fighting for the throne sought after such talent. He was welcomed to the capital, but he had his own agenda. The two princes have been set against each other by the emperor. However such an act has corrupted the royal court, making the whole empire lose its strength. Mr. Su wants to remove both princes as contenders to the throne and bring forth the seventh prince, who's unfavoured by the emperor and looked down upon in the court. Mr.Su does so by studying the whole situation, going after each of the corrupt officials and brings their misdeeds to light. This is his way of removing corruption, and rebuilding the empire's strength.
That set the story forth as things start changing since the appearance of the mysterious Mei Chang Su. Soon enough, people start realizing that things are moving, and interest starts to increase in that mysterious figure. Little do they know he’s Lin Shu, survivor of the Chiyang army, and a victim of a tragedy from 12 years ago. The capital is full of people who benefitted from his tragedy, and those whose time has stopped since that time, unable to accept reality, but incapable of changing reality. Among them loyal friends join our protagonist in his quest to set things right.
Though the story is all about machinations, with smart villains, and smarter hero, what make this drama so special, addicting, memorable and endearing are the characters and relationships. Starting with Mei Chang Su, he’s a tragic character. The son of General Lin, and cousin to the princes, his world with filled with love, his potential was infinite and his dreams are big. Suddenly, all was stolen from him, even his face. He goes back home but it isn’t home anymore. As much as he denies himself the desire to go back to his previous self, he can’t help but show it in the most vital moments. Then there’s the 7th prince, Prince Jing. He’s very straight forward, to a fault, and never hides his feelings. What he thinks of the Chiyang army is no secret to all, making him unfavoured by his father, the emperor. He and Lin Shu grew up as brothers, and his feelings for Lin Shu haven’t changed. However he seemed to have inherited his doubtful side from his father. He has a hard time trusting Mei Chang Su since Mr. Su isn’t as straightforward as he’d like him to be, and he has a prejudice against strategist. I have to say seeing the relationship between these two develop is the most appealing in the drama, and the most carefully planned.
Then there is Princess Ni Huang, Lin Shu’s fiancé who can’t get her hand on what makes her trust Mr. Su this much. Princess Ni Huang is an army general, and the emperor wants to control her by finding her a husband from the capital. However she isn’t one to be controlled and will always get her way, and has a cute brother watching out for her. She is the weakness that makes Mei Chang Su go back to being Lin Shu, even for a moment. She is always the warmth he needs when things are too hard or too sad for him. Next is general Meng, the ever so loyal friend of Mei Changsu, and captain of the royal guards. He’s the strongest person in the capital, but not the smarted of the bunch. Even so he is one Mr. Su depends on most and when he takes charge, he kicks ass.
Other memorable characters are: the smart and warm Concubine Jing; the strong and childish puppy-like Fei Liu; the upright heartbreaking sweetheart Jing Rui; the sunshine Yu Jin; the kickass Xia Dong… the list goes on and on.
The opposing side doesn’t disappoint either. Many antagonists were interesting but most intriguing for me was Prince Yu. He’s very careful in what he does, and knows how to always make himself look in a favourable light in front of the emperor, making him favoured among the princes. However, there was always this emotional detachment he felt from his father, creating a void in him. Throughout the drama, with all his actions, being good or hateful ones, I felt he was always trying to fill this void. Another intriguing character, and maybe the most intriguing of all characters, is the emperor. My first impression of him is, that man is no fool. However everyone know he’s no fool, and of his doubtful nature, which became a tool used by our protagonists and enemies alike. He gives this fatherly figure impression, but that can change in a moment. He does care for his sons, but the power he has over the throne precedes all. He rather punishes innocents rather than let go of suspect. His conscience still haunts him because of past misdeeds, but he rather ignores it to protect his pride.
What brought those characters to life are talented actors and their on screen chemistry. Those favourite moments of mine when Hu Ge looses his composure, or veteran Ding Yong Dai playing such a complicated character like the emperor, who you both hate to love and love to hate.
Of course there is more to this drama than acting and characterization. The writing itself is fantastic. You got the tight plot, you got the character depth, and you got a great balance between all. Not a moment was wasted, as every arc got better than its predecessor. As for the direction, it was flawless for the most part. The story was fast paced, the action scenes were engaging, and overall the scenery was just gorgeous. The music is spot on, and the OST was beautifully fitting, written just for this drama. My only complaint in that area is the beginning, which was overwhelming with information. Especially to a newbie to cdramas like me, I’m getting to know the actors as well as the characters, and this drama doesn’t make it easy. Thankfully, by episode 4-5 things clear up and everything becomes easier to swallow. Another complaint would be when some characters disappear for a long period of time, and we miss them too much. However we’re usually too preoccupied with what is going on, so it’s not like we have the time to get bored.
The ending did not disappoint, and all brought together, with closure to all.
This drama is a perfect example portrayal of the possibility of what is means to run a kingdom through loyalty, love, strength, and wisdom. I’m usually a cynical person, but the experience we go through in this drama doesn’t leave any cynicism in me. I think it’s mostly the focus on love and loyalty between characters throughout the drama that eliminated any doubt in me.
Again beautiful drama and was worth every moment of my time. If you’re not sure yet do try the OST:
When the Wind Blows by Hu Ge
Loyal Blood Runs Forever Red by Wang Kai
Aging of a Beauty by Liu Tao
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This dorama is about Kiriyama Shuichiro, who works at a Statute of Limitation Management Department. He was searching for a hobby and found that he's interested in solving the cases that have passed the statute of limitation. Assisted by Shizuka Mikazuki, a traffic ticket officer that does NOT have a crush on Kiriyama and dreams of marrying him, they solve one mystery at a time. The gang at Kiriyama's department is always there to "support" him, and his colleagues seem too busy to see what Kiriyama is up to, to actually be doing their job, you know, going out there catching criminals before the time limit is up.
This drama is about criminals who got away with it. We meet all kinds of culprit through all kinds of cases. The drama isn't trying to find an excuse for what they have done. The fact most of the cases are crimes where the culprit gained from it, in some ways, is unnerving. However it didn't take out from my enjoyment of watching this show, at least not as much as I thought it would. All characters, including those appearing in one episode only, and those that turn out criminal, have a quirky side to them that makes them entertaining to watch. That doesn't mean I find it in any way forgivable. I really hate the idea of statute of limitation, and 15 years is way too short! Thankfully the law in Japan has changed since 2010. In a way the drama is reflective to how indifferent the police are to their work, even when they are being paid by the government to make sure the city is safe. They have no problem handing the case over to Kiriyama once the time has passed.
Kiriyama never judges anyone for their crime. He's just there to figure out the truth out of curiosity. Catching criminals simply isn't his job. However if he could assist anyone in catching a criminal before it's too late, he'll do his best to help out. The show follows a format, but sometimes the type of mystery gets twisted. The result is never the surprise, the main mystery is the know-how.
The main attraction of this drama, which makes it so much fun to watch, is the characters and comedy, and that is thanks to the acting. All the characters are well in sync, and have chemistry. They each have their distinct way of being hilarious. Seeing them together is like seeing a crazy family having one of their usual evenings, suddenly dancing, then fighting, then laughing but something together while the target of their laugh (usually Mikazuki but sometimes Jumonji ) has no clue what is going on. None of the actors are above making weird and crazy faces, which is what I love about Japanese actors and Japanese comedy in general. The drama didn't stop though Odagiri Joe from looking as handsome as ever! I have always loved him, but this drama made him love even more. I have seen Aso Kumiko before, but she is absolutely adorable here! The whole cast is endearing in general!
So if you love Japanese Comedy, a fan of mystery, or a fan of any of the actors in this drama, it's worth every moment of your time!
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This movie it a remake of a 1992 american movie of the same name, in a Japanese historical setting. I have not seen the original, but I've seen a couple of western style movies. This version felt closer to being a western than in did to being a historical Japanese story. The character and their actions felt more similar to that of a western story than Japanese. That in itself is neither good or bad, just an observation, and to set expectations right. The story itself is pretty predictable. One of the disadvantages of remaking an older movie, in my view, is that what felt new back then feels completely predictable and recycled today, even if it's a solid story. The same can be said about the music. It was just the usual, borderline boring, and nothing memorable
About the acting, I found it outstanding, from the whole cast, no exception. Even that girl playing a prostitute who's protective of her fellow girls, she only had a couple of lines but her looks were killer. They said so much. The male actors are most known, but as I said, all did great, from leading role to the smallest.
The setting itself felt like a fusion of a western town and a Japanese setting. I love the snowy setting, it felt like it connected so much with how the characters were feeling at that moment. And overall it was beautiful to look at.
Overall solid, though predictable story, with great performance which itself is worth checking out.
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The acting is pretty decent overall, where needs to be. Having Shiina Kippei keeping a straight face within such a ridicule event is hilarious. That guy is hilarious overall, but he can manage cool roles as well. Our protagonist Yamada Ryosuke managed to keep us interested in his character while keepincg himself out of the spotlight. It is weird that sometimes it feels he doesn't have much presence and I think that was the intention with the character to begin with. Conversely Masaki Suda was the one overshadowed everyone just by being on screen. He played a badass character and he played it coolly.
Like most school shows, there was a lot about working together to achieve a certain goal, getting motivated to look for different path and whatnot. It does give important lessons in an interesting way. There are also politics, like school unfairness they have to deal with and having a back plan in life to fall back to so there is always hope to succeed.
Overall enjoyable, not too preachy, decent performance and well casted. If anything I think it'll be entertaining and and fun to watch. I can't wait for the sequel ;)
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This movie has a lot of pros, including the professionalism seen here, people actually dedicating their life and time to work. The relationship also proceed in a natural and realistic manner. I also loved the way they use the heroine's wardrobe, specially her shoes, to symbolize where Lala is in her career. She starts with plain semi-classic/casual clothes, and flat ballerina shoes, and with heels growing at every promotion. I do wonder sometimes, the things we see them wear at work wouldn't be permissible where I live, so is it alright in china, or is it just for the sake of appearing all glowy in the movie? In any case it was used to great effects.
I just felt that the movie was missing something, as if I was just watching people going on with their lives without really being invested or caring. It felt cold.
There is one thing that I felt removed the realism of the movie, which is that "company rule" that is obviously meant to be broken. It's just weird that they actually took it so seriously.
I have no complaint about the acting, all did a decent job.
The music didn't draw my attention in any way.
Overall decent movie, with intelligent characters, facing our everyday difficulties of life. Although I doubt it is that easy to quadruple your salary within a couple of years...
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This is a story of greed. The story starts about four characters, four sides, playing each other off, until only one is self on top of the empire. A man coming from the ghetto, who will do anything he can to get on top of the world, on top of those who step on him, not out of revenge, but of envy. A man always there next to that empire, but can never enter it. So close yet too far, he will stop at nothing to take it from those who deny it to him. A woman alone on top of the empire, who always wanted to escape it, but finds herself being the only one part of that empire capable of preserving it. Finally a woman who's own self-victimization keeping her from realizing her truth, greedy and selfish. Most of the drama is spent sitting, either having a meal or drinking tea. During those events, allies happen, betrayals, power switched from one hand to another, lives change, some go to prison, other to castles. It is a hell of a life.
As for the acting, it really got me hooked! I think it's my first time watching Go Soo, and oh boy he swept me off my feet. He's flawless, with a beautiful face that he sure isn't afraid to uglify it to suit the mood and state of the character he plays Tae Joo. Tae Joo sure is an inspiring character. Despite being a greedy jerk, what made him capable of turning his fortune he is what I would call a great leader. He manages to move people to his side, have them loyal to him, all in this together, taking the same path. As one of the characters say, he manages to both fill his stomach and his heart. That is where Seo Yoon fails, and will never fill anyone's heart. Her attitude of always telling people *stay put, behave, and I will take care of everything for you* is overbearing. She is very loyal to the family, but her way of showing it, in short, sucks. I'm not a fan of Lee Yo Won, but she plays her character magnificently. Son Hyun Joo is AMAZING! He can do the most devilish thing, but the moment he does this sad look in his eyes, he just gets to me! He was the one I was rooting for, for the most run of the drama. The chemistry that got me hooked was the one between Go Soo and Son Hyun Joo. When they are fighiting, when they are allies, and they face each other off, there's this excitement when they share the screen together.
There are many other intriguing characters. The list is too long, but just a couple of highlights: Uhm Hyo Seop as Won Jae, the older brother that is too simple for that hell of a world; Jang Shin Young as Seol Hee, who find a way out of her greed always has an interesting story to tell; Ryu Seung Soo as the awkward gangster with a sense of humour; Kim Mi Sook as Sung Jae's Mom's was terrific.
Other than those points, another terrific point is the soundtrack. It was overall a good soundtrack but there was this dramatic music that played out every time a new turn of fortune happen, and had this way of adding of drama and excitement to the scene. I got really addicted to it.
As I said the drama is not perfect. One of the main issue it may not have many people complete it, and the reason it took me so LONG to finish it myself is that it drains my energy, specially when you have someone rooting AGAINST. Every time I finish an episode, it just becomes too hard to start a new one, but once I start the episode, I couldn't take my eyes off it, as much as it drained me.
Another issue is one I have with many kdramas, there is no sense of time passing. We meet the characters from the time they are in there mid to late 20s (or older), and over 15 years pass, but they are as beautiful as ever, no sense of aging at all. It takes out from the sense of realism, especially when so much emphasize is put on the time those battles took from our protagonists' lives. There was also not much care put to show the different eras the story goes through, from the 90s to the 2Ks. Finally, as the episodes go by, the amount of flashbacks kept increasing, and while I was watching this drama very slowly, I didn't need THIS MANY reminders of what this person said or did.
So to summarize it all, it is an amazing, unique drama,that is for a specific audience. It's not perfect by any means, but it excels in its good points. If you like an intelligent drama about people's greed, playing each other off, and corporate politics that mirror real life politics, then that is the drama for you. However, it is NOT a drama about the romance between a self-made man and a heiress. Sometimes I wonder how the drama would've turned out if it followed the synopsis, but I realize it'd probably just be like another kdrama. Then again with such genius writing who knows.
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The writing here is exceptional. Since we are going a painful time, the writing makes it not only bearable, but also addicting to watch, by balancing slice-of-life and comedy, yes COMEDY, with war and tragedy throughout most of the story. Romance is there, but in a very subtle manner, just like the way I like it. Though understated, the moment it surface, it brings out all those tingling feelings and excitement. The overall way the characters are written, they feel real, relatable, and more than just good or evil. A lot of times it felt like a character study, and the characters were always more than what they appear. The development was slow but apparent, and very realistic. I got to the point that I felt like part of the people there, part of the family, and was in it with them. Without knowing how it ends, I felt I wasn't gonna mind any ending chosen, and the more I watched , the stronger this feeling became. It goes beyond trusting the writer giving a satisfying ending, and more of me having to accept fate.
I can't help but talk about the characters and their relationship. Jun Shan, the brother-in-law, is the star here. He is one piece of work. My first impression of him was *WHAT THE HELL?!* He's bossy, he's pushy,he's uneducated, he's overbearing. But then I notice, he's loyal, he loves his family. I won't say more and let you discover more of him. Believe me that is just the tip of the iceberg of his character. His relationship with Xiang Jun was a highlight in the drama. Beyond love, there was a certain harmony in the relationship. Then there are the twins. I don't know where to start. They are childish, foolish, reckless, and they certainly need to grow. But they are fun to be around, lively, and sure know when to come through when it counts. Being of different genders, they're growth and maturity come at different pace, but the people we leave at the end of the drama may not recognize those we met in the beginning. A part of me wished they stayed how were, but we can't help but grow up. Specially during war, reality hits and you find yourself growing years at each passing day. Qing Ming is another interesting one. He is an educated soldier, always wanting to fight for his country. He can be pretty stubborn, to the point of acting childish. His view of life, of elders, and of women, is that they are all incomprehensible. Only when he starts to understand them he becomes the man he wanted to be. I specially appreciated Qing Ming's relationship with Jun Shan. One hell of a bromance they make. They couldn't be any more different but somehow understand each other well. Another highlight was the grandma. She is a strong, stubborn old lady, but when she's around, you always know that everything is going to be just fine. Xiu Xiu might have appeared as a sweetheart, and submissive, but I always knew she hid fearlessness to appear when needed. The list can go on and on, but I just wouldn't know where to stop. Lets the say, even the smallest roles have been given thought as to make them real, and their development authentic.
What to say about the acting. Brilliant! It turned the character into real human beings, and not just something written on paper. Everyone gave their all to their character, and I have zero complaint.
Honestly the music didn't stand out for me, but didn't ruin anything either.
If I have any complaint at all, is some side characters that appear later on in the drama that weren't given enough time or focus early on, so it was hard to make the connection. Overall though my satisfaction with this drama goes beyond any complaint. I would say that overall, it deserves a 9 or 9.5/10, but the delight it brought me deserves a 10/10!!
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Before getting into this dorama, we need to set our expectations right so we acknowledge the genius applied here. As it says in the opening sequence, this is a Low Budget Action Adventure Story. This is the type of drama I can confidently say only Japan can make, and excel at it. I love the fact they don't even try to mask that it's a low budget. The story is generic and purposely predictable and cheesy. This isn't about the story or the action, it's all about the comedy. It is purposely stupid, and boldly blunt and fun. I just love how the heroes are so into their role when those around them just react in such pragmatic ways, totally killing the moment. It's just hilarious.
The drama itself is a parody of video games.. I'm not into video games myself but from the bit that I've seen my brother played, I got to appreciate some details here that I would've otherwise found weird. One example is when the heroes prepare for a fight, the way they stay on one side only and their movement felt exactly like what I see in video games the movements before the player actually starts fighting.
One of the most critical aspect in this drama is acting, and needless to say it was effortless. All did a magnificent job, including guessed stars. I don't know if there exist anyone better than Yamada Takayuki for the role he took. He has such a serious face perfect for dramatic scenes used in such a priceless way. All three sidekicks were spot on and did great. Not a moment was boring being around them. We also got some of the most surprising guest stars and their roles were nothing less than hilarious. I also have to add the sister, her character did spice up the story enough to wonder what the hell is going on with her.
I wouldn't say the drama is without flaws. For instance I found some some tropes just became too repetitive. It definitely isn't for everyone and it's sense of humour is pretty unique. It took me a couple of episodes to warm up to it and actually fall in love with it. Getting into it you have to get ready for the package of cheesiness, predictability, since it is done purposely, to fully appreciate the comedy.
Basically if you need a good laugh, appreciate Japan's unique sense of humour, and/or enjoy parodies, then this is a drama for you.
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The lead characters were amazing in their roles, and so were the guest appearances in each case. Kim Kang Woo as Gil Su Hyun was such a troubled character. He has a deep darkness, and an extremely cute side. I love that he's no cheesy idealist. He will get blood on his hand, not for the sake of justice, but only to make the world a bit less awful. He's not faultless, as we see his view is not absolute, but he seeks the same satisfying ending I want. His frustration would always reflect mine. Next is Park Hee Soon playing Detective Oh Dae Yeong, who's personality it pretty much the opposite of Su Hyun. He's pretty loud and outgoing, and his life is mostly in the light with a happy family. He got many years of experience making him very perceptive. Seeing his trail of thoughts and the way follows track is engrossing. The two guys have the chemistry and the perfect foil for each other. Rounding up the team is Jo Bo Ah as Jin Seo Jun. Though much younger and beautiful, she did convince me of her being a focused hacker and smart. I enjoyed the sunbae-Maknae feel.
Other interesting characters were those involved in the cases. Though Su Hyun was supposed to be the genius of the show, those perpetrator were the geniuses. The performances were dazzling for a number of cases totally broke my heart.
Other than the cases and character, I like how the theme was forming subtly little by little each episode, until we got to the last episode. I find they quoted it perfectly:
- Currently we are living in a world that's filled with the fruit of injustice
- A History of injustice manipulating justice to kill off justice
I enjoy my mysteries, but since it is embedded so well with such a deep theme about law and justice, it reveals a deeper message that the drama is telling the viewer, leaving us in deep thought about the matter.
I would highly recommend this drama for anyone who enjoyed TEN or OCN dramas, and mysteries in general. There isn't any romance but, there is bromance at a more understated level as well as camaraderie.
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Of course the main attraction of this drama were the characters. For me it was more how they were easy to relate to more than anything.
-Soo Jin is a hardworking girl who wants to produce meaningful movies. To do that she has to accept working on movies she's less enthusiastic about.
-Myung Soo is a webtoon artist who's getting by (though I don't know how he would afford a Burberry blancket :P). He's a positive person, chill and fun to be around.
-Hwa Yeong is a career woman with a crazy side to her that needs to be kept in check.
-Ji Ah is a woman stuck in the image of a classy madame, but yearns for freedom from it.
-Rara gives off the impression of a loose girl who'd anything to reach her dream when in reality she's a sweet person who needed someone to remind her of her value.
-Jo Geon is an artist at heart, with all the negative and positive that comes with it. He's moody, he's unpredictable, he's got a temper, but he's warm, doesn't judge others and reflective.
-Finally, though we didn't see much of Yeong Jae, I found him much more refreshing now that he got rid of that perfectness when it comes to relationships.
I find those are all traits we can relate to, to some degree and I really enjoyed the focus on it. Any fight, breakup or argument came from within, and not from any flimsy external factor, or stupid misunderstanding. The development in the relationships felt natural, and the characters had chemistry. The friendship between the ladies was a delight it reminded me of one of my favourite high school romcom movies "John Tucker Must Die".
I'm not sure if the episode cut was a positive or a negative occurrence. On one hand there was no time to waste on any extra angst, so even annoying characters had to wrap up their act fast, actually making them more likeable. On the other hand, there were some events that felt got wrapped conveniently fast an could benefit some a deeper exploration.
Overall light watch with relatable characters and unique comedic moment,
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I have to say one of the strong points in the drama is that it has a solid plot, and is it fast paced. There is always something happening so I don't ever remember it being draggy, which a very important factor. Nothing can bring the drama down more than the feeling that nothing is happening and the story is going round and round. Thankfully that wasn't the case for this drama. Another point I liked was the costume, decoration, and makeup used throughout different stages of the main characters' life. I like the colours used and the different hairstyles. What was annoying was the dubbing, which would prevent me from evaluating the acting fairly, but I think in the very least, it was decent overall.
If I am to talk about characters however, that is my main issue with the drama. First of all, other than about 6-7 characters, all surounded by the main love story, and all the others were no more than extras. second of all, to put simply, most characters's way of thinking and actions did not make sense to me whatsoever, which totally disconnected my feelings for this drama. I'm saying this mainly about Pei Lin, Jing Wan and Jin Zhi. Their emotions are too reckless and volatile. Sometimes it felt more like lust and possessiveness rather than "love". Even when in love, their priorities were all over the place. It was hard for me to empathize when most of the time I was rolling my eyes.
The process that Jian Zhang went through was actually interesting, but I felt they didn't go deep enough. I think his character would've been portrayed better if they had given more character to his siblings. The Doctor was my favourite but mostly because he was the voice of reason in this drama, telling the characters exactly what's on my mind. Unfortunately none actually listened to him. One character I really liked and cared for was Pei Lin's sister. Unfortunately she was casted on the side.
For all those reasons, the show overall felt uneven. There were great episodes and there were not so great ones. By the time I got to the ending, I had lost any emotion left for the characters, and did not care much for the outcome.
As for music, it was fine overall, but there was one song that was played when some characters are in agony that felt too modern and out of place.
Overall, if you love dramas all about intense love and romance, you may find exactly what you're looking for here and may find it decent to boot. If you're looking for a more realistic story, with logical characters, about somewhat fitting pracmatic leader, this may not be the drama for you as it wasn't for me.
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One of the most interesting aspect for me is the setting. The manga world itself is set in cheap pub, while the setting of the humans is a small village with a small community. In many instances I wondered if that setting itself if part of someone else's work. For what we think is reality is someone else's fiction. The funny thing is, every time I wonder how things would go if this event happen, or that event happen, or when I try to interpret certain things, or think of a certain solution, the drama always tend to explore these question and give me an answer. Of course there is no definite answer, just a possibility and closure.
Another aspect is the way the characters are written. There was very careful attention given to many subtle details that define each character. On the human side there's the protagonist Echizen, who is filled with self-hatred and disappointment with the world. Her journey to self discovery and appreciation was slow, but every once in a while there was a huge step forward. Other than her there is her co-workers that each has an interesting personality. Yuriko was fun, playful and very attentive. Behind her happy-go-lucky facade there is a deep scar and regret. Kiyomi is also worth mentioning, or maybe I should call her Akuma. Always angry, she doesn't seem pleasant to be around at first, when in truth she is the most heartwarming of the human characters. She just hate it when people aren't being honest as she is, making it hard for her to open her heart. She challenges her Echizen all the time, probably seeing worth in her more than Echizen sees in herself. On the manga character side there is Nakuna of course. He's an emotional lad. Always expressing himself freely. He's extremely loyal and trusting, and as innocent as a child. I could say all his manga family has the same innocence for the same reason, but not all are this trusting. Each one of them is adorable with a distinct personality.
If I were to talk about the acting, they were perfectly casted to say the least. Most note worthy is Nagase Tomoya. That guy loves to overact, but it never bothers me because he knows which role to choose that makes overacting, if not just okay, but even demanded. Aso Kumiko was also perfect. She smiles a lot, but you can detect the forced from the genuine. Kutsuna Shiori has this gift of being a very lovely despiteful person. I'm telling you that's a gift. another noteworthy is a personal favourite of mine, Okunuki Kaoru as Yuki. She's elegant and wise, but so cute when clueless. Yasuda Ken appearing as a guest in an episode was the most touching.
Overall it was a nice, light, charming, sweet comedy with a lot of heart. The setting and light used makes it perfect watch while having an afternoon tea. It may not be for everyone's liking as some may find it boring and a bit over the top, but if you look deeply, you may find an, I'll bet well hidden, gem.
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*In a house in the outskirts of Tokyo, there lives a family of eight. Such a large family is rare these days, however not one of them is related by blood.*
I did not read the rest so the first episode shocked me, but it also hooked me. In this drama, we meet nine individuals, of different background and diverse age, at their most vulnerable moment in their life. It was a moment where they had lost what was most precious for them in the world, and were left stranded. Some were at the point of reaching their dreams, while others had taken what they love for granted. That weakness I saw in the characters is what made me emotionally attached to them. I cared so much. Watching every episode transformed from enjoying a drama to watching over them, making sure they are fine, and that, somewhere, somehow, they can find happiness again. That is to what point I got attached.
The story itself is well thought out. It's very reflective of life, death, choices, and what is truly important. While it deals with such a heavy subject, it is very much a slice-of-life dorama, and watching it is more heartwarming than sad, hopeful than despairing, and gives you the most beautiful emotions. The dialogs however, can sometimes be preachy, but, being this connected with the family, the cheesy dialog becomes believable. The quality of the video I watched wasn't good, but the setting and the choice of music made it all fitting. And one of the most important aspect about it is having a satisfyingly perfect ending.
What I find that is most well thought out is how the characters were written, and the performance did not disappoint. Being character centric, there is a nice balance between uplifting bonding and the individual struggles. Society's cruelty is also exposed here, while people's kindheartedness, as little as it is, is well displayed. The drama carefully used many subtleties to give us hints, as well as effective revelations. I'm really glad how the attention was spread out. It isn't perfect. There are some stories that I wish were explored on a deeper scale, but at the very least, the writer made sure to touch up on them. Most of the drama time however, was used for family interactions, which is a lot of fun. I felt like joining them every single time.
I really want to add a comment on each of the family members, but I know if I start, it'll take me all night to write, and I don't think anyone would be interested to read a review that long :P
All I can say is, if you like slice-of-life dramas, family dramas, and emotional drama, that is one for you to check out. You won't end up watching a drama, you will end up meeting the most beautiful family. You will become their guest that refuses to leave.
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-Wildness beyond imaginations.... check!
-Violence... check!
-Hopelessness...check!
-Spot on comedic scenes...check!
-Amazing performance from the whole cast...check!
-Magnificent use of flashbacks, colours, lighting and music... MAJOR Check!
-Memorable... We'll see about that ;)
-Story... I don't usually watch anything where there is no one to root for, much less enjoy it, but somehow this story was engaging so...check! But it was mostly because of it's characters rather than the story itself.
This is definitely a director piece. What I love about this movie is exactly what I loved about Confession. The not so linear timeline, the constant use of flashbacks, seeing only part of the picture piece by piece until it makes all sense, the effective use of music to indicate the absurdity of the situation, the colours used show the madness in the world. The movie doesn't shy away from anything, and the story is told by one hell of a messed up dirty old ojisan. Under a lesser director, this movie would've been like any other, average, forgettable. Nakashima has a way of mastering the image he's showing. A true artist who manages to connect with the audience through images.
Yakusho Koji's genius was beyond my imagination (currently checking out his movie list ;)) Tsumabuki was adorably delightful. I smile on every scene he's in. Sometimes I burst out laughing. Specially in his last scene in the movies. Hilarious! It just caught me by surprise. Odagiri, oh Odagiri, he may not appeared long in the movie, but it was long enough to captivate me. To the point that I didn't realize I was missing my chance to get some great screencaps of him XD. What a scene that way. Words cannot describe it. It was so effortless on his part. Playing crazy characters for him is like a kid getting his favourite toy on christmas!
That young cast! No fear for the future of the Japanese cinema as long as they're around. It's my first time seeing Komatsu Nana so can't judge much but she has the perfect demonic beauty that she uses effectively here. Hashimoto Ai always knows the best thing to say at the right moment. Hiroya Shimizu was also perfect his the use of his character is interesting.
It wasn't an easy watch but totally worth watching. If you're a fan of Nakashima movies, especially Confessions, you'll definitely like it. If you are a fan of any of the cast, they make such a spectacular job it's worth venturing into this movie!
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