I have seen lots of Japanese school dramas but Yankee-kun to Megane-chan makes to the top place on my list. Simply saying this is an outstanding piece of work would not be enough. It tells a story that is heartwarming to the core. I am glad I decided to watch this otherwise I would have missed out on a true gem.
While school dramas happen to be among my favourites because they are so enjoyable, this is the first time I was fully invested in one from the first episode to the last. I finished it in just a day and a half and had a blast while doing it. It had such spectacular scenes that they will definitely go down as classic Jdrama moments for me. Often quirky at times, it could get hilarious to the point you would just keep laughing. Other times it was either very touching or relatable because of some realistic issues in it.
In its heart it is a tale about friendship, human relations and above all- growing up and trying to be better people. I have to say this is the most consistent drama I have seen till date. Not a single episode, not a single moment ever fell weak or draggy for me. Plus its three-dimensional characters are what make this drama into a masterpiece. None of them ever turn out the way they seem. It reminds us of how we are all humans, in spite of the good and the bad in us. Also that embracing these traits is a must in order to respect yourself. I found this drama having some great quotable dialogues.
Anyway, at first look Hana is just a dork and Daichi is a no-good person. From then on how these characters grow is almost unbelievable. I found the aspect of Hana seeming smart but being a dunce, and Daichi seeming dumb but being bright very funny. I was very impressed by the performances of Naka Riisa and Narimiya Hiroki. They are both fantastic actors and can convey every emotional successfully. The supporting cast was also great.
I like to mention the relationship between Hana and her grandfather and also Daichi and his father were one of the best things about the drama.
Like lots of Jdramas, this one has some great moments of friendship also. If you watch this drama then try to get past the over-enthusiasm of Hana because she is such a likable character. This drama easily avoided lots of cliches but incorporates the most common one in mangas- a cold, rude, arrogant guy and a seemingly clingy and stupid girl. I liked their bickering relationship and the ending was hilarious if not fully satisfying.
I wish there was a season 2 since 10 episodes seems way too short for me. I am giving this drama a high rewatch value because I want to watch it again in its entirety.
Was this review helpful to you?