Tatta Hitotsu no Koi is a drama that I have been putting off because it sounded like an overrated cliche. I was right about the cliche part but definitely not the overrated part. It is a great, classic pure story that is very pleasant to watch. It is definitely one of the greatest Jdramas of all time. The feeling I got most of the times while watching was of that of a classic 60's Hollywood romance movie from a Japanese perspective. With a likable cast, an easy-flowing story and an outstanding music score, this drama qualifies as a classic in all aspects. I loved the story. I was mesmerized with the story and its narration throughout its course. I actually tried to find out more about the writer Eriko Keitagawa and I will quote her here- "This classic love story enables those who are in the same generation to feel empathy, or be envious of the characters' lives; and the rest, who were once 20-year-olds, to reminisce about their own "Love of My Life." I think what the writer said is exactly how you will end up feeling. Since I am the same age as those of the characters, I thought I could relate a lot to them. The interactions of the main couple and the way they acted was so realistic. I found myself envying them during the first half and felt empathy from them in the latter. If you ever had a first love, I am sure most you will find some similarity with this story. There are some heartwarming as well as sad and dramatic parts but it never gets unbearable. There weren't any exaggerated emotions or expressions and the drama continues its melancholic tone till the end. The drama did drag as all dramas tend to do but I still feel that the writing remained the solid point till the end. I liked Kamenashi Kazuya in his role but his expressions became limited towards the end. He was very good for the majority of the part and was convincing in the role that he played. I really liked how his character was developed. He is a complicated guy and I found him unpredictable. Ayase Haruka wasn't extraordinary but she was sweet and graceful. I liked Erika Toda as her friend and this role was very different from what she usually plays. Rest of the secondary characters were just okay. I have to mention the direction and cinematography of this drama. I never knew Yokohama was such a beautiful city. I would love to visit it sometime in the future. The direction was also one of the strongest points of the whole drama. It keeps you hooked. I loved that part where they go back to their high school and reminisce about their life then. I related very well with a lot of aspects from the story. It was simple drama and I could say that it seemed like a toned-down version of Hana Yori Dango. It just reminded me a lot of that story because of the obstacles the couple have to face in order to stay together- which were along similar lines. I am glad I watched this because I was in the mood of some romance. However- as happens every time that I am invested in a drama this also left me tired due to the marathoning. Last- the rewatch value is high because I loved the story to bits and will keep watching it till I get bored. This is a highly recommended drama!