Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu (2023)

Soulmates & misunderstandings

What I admire about japanese romcoms is the way they manage to create a whole long drama without one really bad character. I find it amazing. This cute little drama is such an uplifting, nice, optimistic watch.

The story follows Soramame and Oto who keep bumping into each other until they end up living in the same boarding house. Their connection, mutual respect, sincerity and friendship set them on the right path of professional success which unfortunately pushes the private life out of the way. After success tears them apart they meet again three years later.

The main characters are sweet and cute and have great chemistry. She is always looking on the bright side of life in spite of a number of mishaps. He is fascinated by her optimism which rubs off on him a bit helping him break the creative block. There is a cast of colourful support characters: the landlady enjoying the presence of youngsters in her house, the music producer, flamboyant and king, the fashion designer who almost caves in to temptation....

Though it is a romance, this drama touched superficially upon some interesting topics: child abandonment, creativity and inspiration, cutthroat entertainment and fashion businesses.

The drama is pretty to watch, the music is nice, pulling on heartstrings, the writing is solid as is the acting. For almost 8 episode it was a fairy tale about two lost puppies trying to find their way in this big bad world. And then suddenly, they became adults and everything changed. It was not a fairy tale anymore because the real life interfered, no matter how unrealistic (all of a sudden she discovers herself having a huge talent for creating clothes and after one month is better then a seasoned fashion designer?!?!?). The main couple spent most of the series circling around each other, pining and wondering. And even though I did not mind it most of the time, it became annoying towards the ending with unnecessary misunderstandings and a three year time jump. But they fixed everything and came back to the fairy tale territory with the post credit scene of the last episode and with that everything bitter I felt, just vanished. A lovely drama

Read More

Cliffhanger

Cliffhanger!!!

Putting aside my problems with this drama, I was surprised that I actually liked it. I wasn't expecting anything at first. The synopsis doesn't even look interesting to me, as I just randomly started the drama on a whim. I don't even know why I watched this, even though I initially did not like the plot introduction.

But the first few episodes were great! The bickering between the two leads was cute. I guess my problem was they took so long to confess their feelings. All the time, I was like, "Come on, say it!" And they never did. But still, I guess the issue was that they were friends. And they are circumstances that friends don't want to ruin what they have now. Also! probably because they don't know if the other feels the same, which is obviously nonsense, because girl, I'm gonna say, friends don't look at their friends that way. They even held hands and how they look at one another like it was so obvious! All that is missing is a "boyfriend-girlfriend" label, and they're good.

Another thing is that it felt short as I wanted to see more of their life after getting together.

For the cast, this might be my first drama of hers, but Suzu's acting here is great. I liked it. Btw, she's so pretty.

Read More

Beautiful

Hold my hand at twilight
I haven't watched many jdramas lately.. don't get me wrong but my experience with them haven't been pleasing at most. And this one blew away my heart and broke that with a sledge hammer. No over reacting, No unnecessary characters, No cringe, No always so perfect type .. This drama had visuals, production, and OST.. don't even get me started on that. I already added it to my playlist on spotify. The actors were amazing. I cried twice .. no thrice .. okay i lost count but it was necessary. The leads bickering was too cute, the landlord is a chef's kiss.. i mean in short, i loved everything !!

WATCH IT

Read More

A heartwarming drama

It made me think about a lot of things: coincidences, big changes in life, gratitude, and the weight of emotional connections. Sadly, I watched most of episodes when I was very tired, which made not enjoy them so much. But the reason for the (relatively) low rating was that I was not really too into this drama. It is a subjective feeling. There are some dramas that you really empathize with the story and the characters. Maybe on this one I did not feel so much connected with neither both. Instead, I only felt connected to the situations shown.

Note: Yorushika OST was superb!

Read More

One of the best Japanese dramas to exist!

Wow. I don't even know where to begin. Fun fact, I started watching this drama because I'm a huge fan of the actress Suzu hirose's (who plays the female lead, Soramame) boyfriend Kento yamazaki. Truth be told, I didn't know Suzu before the dating news with Kento. And I'm so happy that I started watching this drama. I binge watched it the entire day, I couldn't stop watching. The characters, plot, acting, music and overall was 100% for me 10/10. I have watched over 1000 Asian dramas and maybe 100 Japanese ones. And this definitely is in my TOP 3! Just watch it!!! I loved it so much would really recommend.

Read More

It's a feel-good fiesta that leaves you cheering for dreams, love, and the Tokyo twilight vibes.

"Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu" is like that cozy blanket you never knew you needed. Picture Tokyo, dreams, and a sprinkle of romance—now, you're in for a treat!

**Dreamy Drama Delights:**
Okay, so we've got Soramame and Oto, and they're not your average drama duo. These guys are the cool, independent types, doing their thing and making you root for their dreams. It's not just a slow-burn romance; it's like watching a quirky dance of emotions that leaves you grinning and occasionally yelling at the screen (in the best possible way).

**Crazy Chemistry and Sibling Banter:**
Soramame and Oto don't just have chemistry; they've got a whole lab experiment happening. The banter is like a sitcom, and you're there, sipping your drink, thinking, "Yep, these two are like the drama version of a buddy comedy, but with a side of heart-fluttering moments."

**Dream Support & Denial Circus:**
Ever been stuck in the loop of support and denial? "Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu" gets you. It's like watching your friends navigate through love and dreams, and you're on the sidelines, going, "Come on, guys! Figure it out already!" But that's what makes it so darn relatable.

**Atmosphere Vibes and Cinematic Magic:**
The drama has this vibe—like those golden Tokyo evenings, where everything feels just right. The cinematography is like your friend who always takes the perfect Instagram pics. You're low-key jealous but also living for those aesthetically pleasing scenes.

**Jamming to "Life Goes On":**
Let's talk music. "Life Goes On" is not just a theme song; it's the anthem of your feels. Ending credits aren't your cue to grab snacks; they're your front-row seat to a musical journey. And yes, you stay for it every single time.

**Characters that Feel Like Squad Goals:**
The characters are your new squad. Soramame and Oto? They're like the friends you wish you had. With all the side characters character, and it's a diverse party that makes you go, "Yep, this is my kinda crew."


**In Conclusion—It's a Feel-Good Fiesta:**
"Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu" is not just a drama; it's a feel-good fiesta with characters that make you laugh, cry, and cheer them on. Despite a few plot potholes, you're on this rollercoaster of dreams and connections, and you're not getting off anytime soon.

In summary, if you want a drama that's part rollercoaster, part cozy night in, "Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu" is your golden ticket. It's more than just a show; it's the drama version of your favorite comfort food—a little spicy, a little sweet, and totally irresistible.

Read More

This is a series not for everyone. For those familiar with screenwriter Kitagawa Eriko you know how her love stories develop and they are not everyone's taste. I personally love the slow build because it makes the relationship so much more meaningful and interesting. 

Things I love about this series: 

The cinematography is so beautiful and the color makes the series so homely. You know that feeling that gives you comfort and warmth. I love some of the color settings for the scenes, it just draws you into the moment. Personal favorites are when she is inspired by her theme “live in the moment, not the days” and when Oto and Soremame hang out in the yard either playing with bubbles or running into each other after he moved out. 

The cast especially the soremame. I just adore her playfulness, creativity, and the attitude to never to lose oneself. I personally haven’t watched much of oto works so I think he’s a new face. I didn’t know what to expect with his character in the first few episodes but after a while you realize just how comfortable he plays his character and the conversations and the spark between the two just made everything better. And because of that, I can’t hate his character or his acting. Maybe his character was just an average Joe kind of guy?? 

And as I mention the relationship between the two. I especially love the lines they have. Eriko always just knows when to tug at your heart with some of these lines. First episode the line I can’t stop thinking of is “a person’s back is so warm” for those who know you know. 

And lastly, if you’re a fan of the screenwriter like me, you just have to watch this. There are so many tender scenes that I missed so I know I have to go back and rewatch and just enjoy the moment. 

Read More

Un joli coup de coeur pour ce début de printemps!

S'il y a une chose indéniable et que je n'ai jamais su trouver nulle part chez d'autres, c'est cette ambiance particulière que les japonais savent mettre en valeur! J'ai beau adorer les Cdramas (mon top 10 est dominé par des dramas chinois) ou les Kdramas qui ont été les premiers à m'avoir rendu accro à tout ce beau monde, les japonais restent pour moi les seuls à recréer cette ambiance particulière, propre à mon adolescence. Alors oui, il faut avouer que trainer jusqu'à pas d'heure devant Tonkam ou Madoka, battant des pieds sous la pluie ou en plein soleil à dévorer des mangas non traduits doit y jouer beaucoup. Ou bien s'échanger joyeusement des VHS de mauvaise qualité du dernier Miyazaki ou de "Record of Lodoss War" avec les copains de Gobelins reste encore inoubliable. C'est aussi ce sentiment que je retrouve ici. L'excitation d'une romance adorable, la bonne humeur d'une gamine que rien ne peut arrêter, le sourire timide d'un joli garçon de la chanson. Rien de nouveau bien sur. Mais tellement d'amour, de joie, de positivité qu'on ne peut regarder les épisodes qu'avec un sourire franc et le coeur apaisé.

La réalisation est très jolie, j'ai adoré la palette de couleur ocre qui a donné cette ambiance si particulière, nostalgique et chaude à la fois. L'histoire ne s'attarde que sur l'essentiel, nous passons donc rapidement sur l'ex et c'est avec soulagement qu'il disparaît pour ne plus revenir. Les personnages sont attachants et profondément humains. Nous le voyons lors du vol des modèles de Soramame, cette culpabilité qui tiraille, qui nous affaiblie dans notre certitude et qui au final nous apprend l'humilité. J'ai vraiment apprécié que pour une fois, ce soit le voleur qui s'en rende compte et décide de s'amender. Exit les crises de colères ou de vengeance. Soramame ne songe pas une seule fois à se venger. Que cela soit sur son ex, sa mère ou son mentor ou l'amie qui trahit. Ici, pas le temps de se morfondre sur des choses aussi triviales, se relever et se trouver est fondamentale. C'est un des aspects que j'ai le plus apprécié chez elle. Mais pas que. Sa force de caractère, sa volonté et sa joie de vivre l'ont rendue d'un charisme sans nom. J'aurai moi aussi adoré avoir une amie comme elle. Douce et emphatique, tout dans la compassion, l'écoute mais aussi dans son entêtement et sa volonté de rester elle. Ses rires et la positivité dont elle faisait preuve ont été un bonheur. Pas étonnant de la voir devenir le centre de ce drama. Un magnifique personnage!
Et les autres dans tout cela? J'ai adoré Oto, le contraste dont son personnage avait été écrit par rapport à Soramame. Son calme et sa sagesse lui ont permis d'être la force de Soramame , son épaule infaillible, son univers. Leur rencontre a été magique et j'ai aimé cette façon de les unir. Leur couple a été un plaisir pour les yeux. Oui, ils sont beaux, c'est indéniable. Mais leur complicité les ont rendus réels et leur sincérité m'a beaucoup touché. L'alchimie a été parfaitement maitrisée, je demande encore plus de chamailleries et de discussions profondes entre eux. Un couple naturel et qui m'a largement fait oublier les derniers couples un peu pourris que les coréens ont su m'offrir (oui, je parle de toi AOS par exemple...).
Les personnages secondaires n'ont pas été des coups de coeur comme dans "Cinderella Complex" mais ont été bien mieux que la plupart des dramas que j'ai vu dernièrement.

Un dernier détail qui a rendu ce drama vraiment addictif. L'OST et l'ending!!!
La chanson de Yorushika, "Algernon" était partout!!! Une seule chanson, une seule, jouée tout le long des épisodes et qui a su transcender les scènes romantiques comme les scènes d'émotions. Il fallait le faire. Une chanson qui a su apporter à ces moments, que cela soit de larmes ou de battements du coeur, une intensité encore plus grande.
Et que dire de l'ending!!! Ne le zappez surtout pas. Non seulement, la chanson est géniale, "Life Goes on" de King & Prince (que j'écoute en boucle, bavant devant la chorégraphie de Ren Nagase...), mais chaque ending est unique, où tous les personnages faisant leur apparition diffèrent selon l'épisode. La chorégraphie est superbe et entrainante, nous rendant stupidement heureux.

Besoin d'un bol d'air frais? de sentir heureux? de sourire bêtement? Alors n'hésitez plus.

Read More

É mais sobre amizade do que romance

Este drama é fofo e cheio de boas mensagens e um apoio moral pra todos que também sonham. Se você tem um sonho ou uma grande meta, acredito que este drama vai te dar um bom sopro de incentivo. Ele aborda de um modo realista a vida de jovens adultos que buscam perseguir algo. Mas é tudo bem leve, o drama não pesa em nenhum sentido.
Muito recomendado também para quem quer algo leve pra assistir, com uma estética linda e um relacionamento puro que vai crescendo devagar. Tá aí o ponto mais importante a se destacar. O desenvolvimento do casal acontece bem devagar, eles caminham pela amizade conforme se dão conta do que sentem. No entanto, nos deparamos com algo que é bem conhecido em dramas japoneses e até de outros países né: uma enrolação imensa pra se declararem.
Então você pode esperar uma linda relação de amizade, cumplicidade e apoio mútuo, mas um casal romântico bem resolvido será esperar demais. Isso não tira o valor da trama, que é bonita de vários modos, mas às vezes é inevitável se frustrar com a falta de diálogos importantes e os mal entendidos que parecem forçados.
Os dois protagonistas tem uma química ótima, isso eleva os pontos do drama. Eles convivem juntos na mesma casa e é gostoso vê-los interagindo e brigando que nem irmãos o tempo todo, mas aquela implicância com amor kkkkk. É muito legal a forma como um provoca o outro.
A mocinha é brilhante, vivaz, sincerona, e arrisco dizer uma borderline. Já o mocinho é quietão, na dele, tsundere, daquele jeito que a gente ama, mas às vezes tb perde a pciência pq o boy não toma nenhuma iniciativa.
O drama teve várias oportunidades de nos consagrar com cenas mais românticas entre o casal, mas a gente deve ser uma piada para o autor kkkkk. Nisso achei que o drama errou. Era possível preservar alguns conflitos sem a necessidade de evitar o romance mais concreto. E por falar em conflitos, alguns eu achei exagerados. Outros acheio superficiais demais, pouco trabalhados de verdade.
Destaque para a dona da pensão, a Kyoko. Ela me lembrou uma proprietária de uma casa que eu alugava tempo atrás. Compartilhávamos o mesmo quintal, onde tinha uma mesa onde ela e a família comiam direto, e às vezes eu estava ali no meio. Essa coisa de se sentir em família em outro lar é algo realmente aquece nosso coração. Os protagonista deram sorte de encontrar uma pessoa especial como ela, mas eu sei muito bem que isso não acontece só na ficção. Claro que não é tão comum, mas existe e é muito gratificante.
Enfim, esses relacionamentos não romanticos roubam a cena e fazem o drama valer a pena.

Read More

Batimentos por minuto

Sou apaixonada em cada detalhe desse drama, foi simplesmente a coisa mais linda o modo que os protagonistas se esbarraram pela primeira vez, e amizade que eles construíram ao longo dos episódios. O crescimento dos personagens, eles alcançando o sucesso, a Soramame encontrando seu dom, o Oto inspirações para suas músicas, e eles sendo um pro outro: "a musa". Sempre ali quando precisava, sempre incentivando e ajudando. O final não tem o que reclamar, foi lindo e emocionante!

ps: amei que a Soramame sempre repetia suas roupas apenas mudando as combinações, mostrando realmente que ela foi com pouca mudança pra Tóquio.

Read More

Ambiance poétique au crépuscule

C'est un joli moment avec ces ambiances propres aux J-Dramas. Malgré une narration parfois trop lente, les personnages sont attachants avec des évolutions intéressantes (quoique facile pour l'une d'entre elles) ainsi qu'une mignonne BO.

Le jeu d'acteur est bon dans son ensemble avec des personnages aux traits clichés pour certains (on ne change pas une recette qui fonctionne, je présume), mais gênants pour autant.
Soramame peut sembler à la limite du désagréable sur le premier épisode, mais il s'agit seulement d'une façon de contrer sa tristesse. Une fois qu'elle se sent en sécurité, elle révèle un caractère vif et attachant. Suzu Hirose livre une jolie performance aux émotions prenantes sans besoin de surjouer ou d'abuser des larmes.
Oto est en partie son contraire. Beaucoup plus calme de caractère et plus silencieux, il va rapidement devenir l'épaule sur laquelle Soramame va s'appuyer lorsque tout va bien, mais aussi lorsque ça ne va pas. Ren Nagase incarne à la fois la sagesse et la bienveillance, mais lors des scènes où son émotion est palpable sont les meilleures.
Difficile de ne pas mentionner Kyoko, une grand-mère / propriétaire unique en son genre. Mari Natsuki donne une femme qu'on adore immédiatement derrière ses tenues originales et son caractère vivant.
Le reste du casting est bon.

Les facilités scénaristiques sont de la partie. Notamment sur la raison originale de pourquoi Soramame est-elle si douée pour la mode. C'était prévisible. De même pour certains problèmes qu'elle rencontre. De ce fait, son évolution professionnelle n'est pas une nouveauté et se révèle plutôt facile.
Malgré tout, voir Soramame et Oto se soutenir mutuellement dans leurs rêves respectifs est la plus jolie partie de ce drama. Chacun devient le soutien de l'autre et peu importe si ça fait mal à la fin, ils refusent d'être égoïste et d'empêcher l'autre d'accomplir son rêve.

La narration est lente - et trop rapide sur son final. Si vous attendez de la romance pure, vous serez déçu.e.s. L'amour plane autour d'eux, c'est évident. Mais comme beaucoup de J-Dramas, c'est avec subtilité où les jeux de regards et les gestes seront plus importants.

Bref, Hold My Hand at Twilight est un doux moment avec des personnages attachants et à l'ambiance poétique unique des dramas japonais.

Read More