A fascinating *mature* BL drama that's sensual, seductive and highly rewatchable

"HAI ! WE NEED A SEASON 2, KUDESAI !"
The finest mature JBL of the year so far — This Is A Do Not Miss. Also extremely useful for language learners, as the conversation is normal polite pace and easy to follow.
Both leads, Furuya Robin and Hasegawa Makoto, play their roles to perfection as the highly likeable, playful eagle and his confused but willing prey. If you like jealous villains on the side, this is your show too!
Made for adults, with chemistry so electric you'll rewind the scenes that are dripping with sensuality and passion. Trust me, you'll hit replay within the same week, maybe even the same day. And fight the urge to skip ahead to the steamy scenes.
All 6 of the 25 minutes episodes dive deep. We witness both characters peel back each other's layers, leaving us wondering: is it manipulation, seduction, or revenge? The suspense, juicy dialogue and mystery will have you craving more.
Enjoy the fantastic assistant played to perfection by Takamatsu Aloha, with his razor sharp campy queen one liners; the little dashes of Japanese style symbolism throughout (the pursuer devouring a redundant engagement cake, matching yakuta gowns, etc), a fair bit of above waist action and plenty of oh so sensual kissing, a dash of gay guilt melodrama, and several amusing moments: this series is a delightful ride. Accomplished screenwriters Watatane Aya and Yasukawu Yuke have absolutely delivered quality in this series.
Also appreciated, is the beautifully edited sequence featuring both main characters and their younger selves, along with energetic opening and closing tunes and a romantic musical score throughout. Although the music occasionally drowns out the dialogue, hopefully this will be fixed next season.
Each episode closes to Ayumu Imazu's thumping dance track "Bandage", a toe tapper that perfectly suits the emotional rollercoaster and smouldering sexual energy of the show. I guarantee you will find yourself bopping along to it in the car or bus!
*** Thank You For Reading! "Follow" to be notified of the next review! ~Fuyimawagi

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Charming, Honest and Heart Centred

One of the few dramas with no romance, just an intriguing story that our household enjoyed to the end. I also recommended this series to friends. There are not enough drama with seniors and middle aged people, in my opinion, so this one was refreshing in its focus on a long retired man with a surprising dream. His whole family are absolutely against it. But others support him in his quest. It's also a show about friendship between generations. Just watch it
.. I know you will enjoy it immensely. Thank you for reading! Feel free to Follow me for more reviews. ~FW

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A slow script with outdated notions even in 2016. Strictly for Naohito fans

Feel free to skip over the middle episodes, where you can instead appreciate Naohito-san's performance and indulge in some mindless entertainment for a few hours. It's entertaining when approached with that perspective in mind.The premise of a successful woman doctor approaching 40 who suddenly needs a boyfriend to conform to societal expectations, insults modern professional women and fails to resonate with contemporary audiences. This concept would have felt outdated in 2016, 2006 and even during the 'girl power' age of 1996. Nakatani Miki admirably navigates a character that offers limited depth and credibility, as a highly capable doctor and businesswoman who inexplicably lacks confidence. It's reasonable to expect a medical postgraduate with a thriving cosmetic business, would exude a certain level of self assurance.
Fujiki Naohito's performance always delivers exceptional quality and his hallmark dedication to quality in every role is always evident. Viewers are strongly recommended to also check him out in "The Doorway to Summer" alongside Kento Yamazaki. In this series here, Naohito brings to life a wonderfully over-the-top character, reminiscent of his charismatic hairdresser role from "Last Cinderella" a few years back. His portrayal dominates and elevates the narrative and injects much needed energy and charisma. While the cast demonstrates competence in their respective roles, the storyline feels extremely antiquated and the pacing often feels sluggish. For true actor fans only and useful to pass time between other dramas.

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Somebody in Hollywood Hire Satoh, Already!

"An Incurable Case of Love" owes much to Satoh Takeru's stellar performance as a surgeon; his magnetic presence, depth and charisma carries the series. It's a fun series when you need to pass time, relax and switch off your brain.
As one of Japan's most acclaimed actors, Satoh Takeru is known for his meticulous selection of roles — he established his own talent agency — and all of his performances are compelling. It is always astonishing to remember that Satoh is only 35 years old, has been acting 18 years, and is already considered a craftsman in his field. He is actually quite an engaging and amusing personality; he regularly appears on his Youtube in absolutely hilarious content and very sarcastic commentary. His "2023 Awards" video, where he decides best movie, music, etc, had me laughing till my cheeks hurt!
A good actor can elevate a lacklustre production Here, Satoh's surgeon is characterised by a stoic demeanor and minimal dialogue and his harsh exterior masks deep repressed emotion. There is also undeniable sex appeal that adds intrigue to an otherwise thin narrative. Viewers are encouraged to overlook plot stretches, age differences and unrealistic workplace behaviours. Skip the first 4 episodes if you're impatient.
We sincerely hope Satoh achieves global recognition and roles of greater depth that further showcase his complex appeal and acting prowess. And surely that's not far off: on Youtube in early 2024, he mentioned that he had met with a leading Hollywood talent agency in late 2023.
*** THANK YOU FOR READING! "Follow" to enjoy my other reviews and discover more exceptional Asian dramas. Thank you. ~Fumiyawagi

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The Must Watch Young Love Story

I normally steer away from school romances, but this one took me by surprise with its chemistry and I have since rewatched it 3X. Outstanding production, pacing, direction and acting. The two male leads, while fairly new in their acting careers, display maturity and natural talent well beyond many peers. Haru in particular is extraordinary for his first acting role at age 18, and promises to be both a well regarded comic and serious actor in the decade to come. Maeda showcases a full range of intensity from anguish to complete joy, constantly a sheer delight to watch, and this reviewer believes he is destined to become one of Japan's Thinking Actors, akin to Satoh Takeru or Watanabe Ken.
Special mention for Leo Matsumoto, who elevates key scenes and adds depth to his support role and Itakura Toshiyuki who brightens the show with humour, as the teacher who relishes handing out detention to bright but lazy students.
Music: Fast paced, lively soundtrack and a gentle acoustic score that lifts the beautiful moments, based on J-pop and performed at times in carefully curated half and quarter tempo. Keep the Shazam nearby and you'll have some wonderful additions for your Spotty!
Translating manga faithfully to live drama is always tricky and there are a couple of overused tropes but the entire series, just 2.5 hours, makes for magical viewing. Enjoy.
Well done Netflix Asia, for promoting this series and please keep syndicating the fantastic Japanese content.
Thank you for reading! Follow to be notified of future reviews! ~ Fumiyawagi

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Heart warming, short and sweet

This short and sweet 5-part series, reminiscent of many outstanding Japanese dramas of late, delivers a story that leaves us craving more episodes and deeper character exploration.
The always reliable and charming Keita Machida, sporting his Cherry Magic haircut and brown attire, portrays a charming barman in an unpretentious suburban bar that he runs with 2 former school mates.
We were pleasantly surprised to discover the 3 Star Bar served canned food, expertly prepared by a chef — a twist that adds an unexpected layer of humor to the plot, compared to step-by-step cooking shows such as Fermat's Cuisine and What Did You Eat Yesterday. Yet, somehow, this plot device works! Adapted from a manga series, of course, which often have a quirky point of interest.
Although it takes a few episodes to build momentum, viewers will find themselves drawn to the characters, guest and the stories. The show skillfully used flashbacks of the late bartender, akin to a cherished grandfather, imparting wise advice to patrons and loved ones. Further exploration of this character would have enriched future episodes.
Some dramas, much like the sakura season, dazzle with their brilliance only to fade away all too soon. The final episode highlights the overall production quality of the series, which does not insult us with rushed stories and silly resolutions; just a quietly enchanting tale that leaves us yearning for more.
A second season or more episodes would have been a marvellous opportunity to explore the back stories of the 3 leads with greater depth: the published Hemingway-esque writer grappling with writers block and divorce, a humble bartender with a nightly chauffeur, a chef who loses and recovers his sense of taste. However, all three of the leads have been very busy since 2021, so clearly this will remain a limited and very short series.
Embrace this series for what it really is —a fleeting cherry blossom that warms the soul for a brief moment in time.

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The Perfect Japanese Art Film - A Must Watch

This film that will remind viewers of love and loss, but also guide us to appreciate what is special and beautiful in life. Especially cats.
Eight years on from its release, "If Cats Disappeared From The World" maintains its gentle, existentialist, and esoteric appeal, as a possible Japanese homage to Ingmar Bergman's cinematic masterpiece, "The Seventh Seal" (a knight plays chess with Death on the beach), while staying true to Japanese social culture.
Satoh Takeru has enjoyed a powerful career since this film, and is renowned for tackling emotive roles that other actors might find difficult: he can weep big, manly tears and in the same scene, ponder the magical wonder of the universe. And that, my friends, is why he is so in demand today as "The Actor's Actor" and the intellectual person's sex symbol. He turned 35 just a few days ago and has already amassed an amazing acting portfolio. He's headed for Hollywood: watch that space.
Here, the dialogue is beautifully restrained; the music punctuates the scenes with pulsing electronica and gentle piano in alternate scenes of joyful youth and inevitable tragedy. Satoh skillfully balances dual roles, capturing the essence of a dying postman and his irreverent alter ego, amid flashback scenes highlighting the cycle of life.

*** THANK YOU FOR READING! "Follow" to be notified of more reviews. Enjoy! ~Fumiyawagi

28 March 2024

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Even Better Than Season 1 - More Please

This is such a heartwarming series and so professional in every way. The second series definitely provides scope for a third season or telemovie, As series 2 approached the end, I started to feel sad and it really did feel like saying goodbye to old friends. The relationship is explored on a deeper level this time and it's very satisfying. Viewers aged over 40 will most enjoy this series but anyone who loves a well written and cast plot about everyday relationships, suburban slice of life and home cooking will enjoy it.

One of the best scenes in this season will have viewers appreciating that ordinary love is beautiful; or realising how empty their life might be without a partner who is caring, creative, stable or mentally present. It's a lovely touch.

The whole show flows well, when the right actor is cast in even the smallest roles. I enjoyed the guest appearance of Oikawa Mitsuhiro, one of my personal favourite Japanese actors. He often plays villains with total perfection, was brilliant in Fermat No Ryouri aka Fermat's Cuisine, and here he fills a few minutes here so very well, as the @sshole ex we'd all prefer to forget (!).
Special note also to the regular appearance of Tidano Miako, the supermarket assistant who always points out a good bargain to Shiro in a hugely comedic fashion. It's not the size of the role, but the talent of the actor that makes a difference.

Season 3 could explore several concepts: Shiro's mother finally agrees to meet Kenji on a regular basis, or both sets of parents meet, more mature development of Wataru (and perhaps slightly more background on that relationship, but not too much), Shiro finally comes out at work, bumping briefly into the awful ex who is either miserable or moved on and of course will never admit or apologise, Kenji permanently becomes salon manager, Shiro and Kenji take on the role of quasi grandparents to the neighbour's young grandson (that would be nice, I can see Kenji shopping for tiny jeans and toys) ... there's a number of possibilities.

I encourage the production team to consider creating another telemovie or series, and also the prospect of contracting to Netflix so the rest of the world loves Shiro and Kenji, too! There are strong possibilities for remakes in other cultures.

THANK YOU FOR READING! Please also read my review on Season 1 and feel free to "Follow" to be notified of my other reviews! ~ FW

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Charming, funny and possibly one of Japan's best tv gems

It's easy to see why millions of viewers fell in love with this little gem. You won't regret! TLDR: The person who's 'not your type', may just turn out to be exactly who you need. I really enjoyed this show so much, towards the end I started to feel a bit sad. It's a fantastic production and soooo easy to binge. Both Seasons 1, and Season 2 are 30 minute episodes with a telemovie in between. Shiro and Kenji are an endearing odd couple in their late 40s; Nishijima Hidetoshi nails the emotionally restrained, hilariously frugal and very private Shiro, a small firm lawyer with a heart of gold who favours neutral colours, salaryman suits and loves a bargain; his partner is a warm, enthusiastic hairdresser in white jeans and bright T-shirts who sees ice cream as not a rare luxury, but an essential occasional happiness. Uchino Seiyou, as Kenji (Ken) is a natural physical comic who provides many moments of amusement.
Also wonderful to see an ensemble of various characters and ages, that reflect the diversity of real life, work and home. Each actor brings something special to the role. Adachi Naoko's script highlights changing social attitudes in a subtle and impactful way. The directors are also to be commended for creating a tight, easy rolling, easy to binge show that will bring a little smile to your face often.
***THANK YOU FOR READING! "Follow" to be notified of more reviews! Say Hello! ~Fumiyawagi

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Passes time, but wastes talent.

🌟 Welcome to (Less) Sex In The City, Tokyo 2023 style. Is it ok to have ex sex? Why can't we just live de facto and stay in love, instead of being married and miserable? Should i just do the same thing my parents did, or live like a millenial would in most parts of the world?
These modern relationship dilemmas are explores through Mukai-kun, a hesitant young salaryman. The show, reminiscent of the John Cusack film, "High Fidelity", navigates love's complexities and missed opportunities. Despite a capable cast aged up to 60 including Akaso Eiji in a role that massively ignores his amazing comedic and emotional talents, the series falls short. Haru shines as a progressive female lead, but the lack of mature plot and physical intimacy diminishes its impact. Okayama Amane is the hidden gem of the show, with his comedic timing and comic physical presence.
The show's pace and limited exploration of modern adult themes, hinder its potential. Like so many modern Japanese dramas, this one largely pretends physical intimacy does not exist.
Still, this show offers a moderate viewing experience, best enjoyed without high expectations and while waiting other releases.
🌟 Thank you for reading! Follow to be notified of future reviews! ~ Fumiyawagi

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Takahashi Is Set For Big Things

One of the few Japanese romances that doesn't rely on the tired old "trip grab and hug" trope. Takahashi absolutely smoulders as a moody ML who has his own private burdens. He is a versatile actor with a big future and it will be very interesting to see which roles he is offered as an older adult. The world is ready for Asian leads in Hollywood and European film, and it would be wonderful to see Japan's incredible talent receive greater recognition and roles.
Overall this is a very pleasant teen romance, with fantastic Japanese rock and a fabulous twist when how the two leads finally come to understand each other. All of the actors are highly capable and although it is a school setting with some compulsory scenes, the dialogue is modern and fresh. Stay watching to the very end!

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Humour & Heart That Grows Slowly

Found via Netflix Australia. Initially I dropped this after Episode 1 but returned a few days later. I LOVED it. Would very much like to see a second season with deeper character development. Part legal, part detective show ... All actors are all very charming, entire show is populated with gentle humour and pace is brisk. Legal topics are quirky and courtroom dramas restrained.
As the show develops, the audience learns of the various vulnerabilities of the protagonists. I believe there is potential for an intriguing love triangle. In particular, I enjoyed the show's suburban setting. This made a refreshing change from the typical "bright lights, big city" legal dramas. There are car chases, runs through the street, but also a great many plot twists and fabulous funny moments and great musical score to match the fast pace. The show's director has exercised appropriate degrees of intensity and restraint.
This series reminded me of an old 1980s show, "Remington Steele" where Pierce Brosnan assisted a lady detective, where he appeared to be the front of the business but in truth they were an equal team.
I would dearly love to see a Season 2 made, but as this was made in 2022, there not much hope. Well worth watching ... Vote UP and let folks know you want more!

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A Perfectly Crafted 2 Hour Masterpiece of Joy. Do Not Miss

"Old Fashion Cupcake" stands as one of Japan's finest live-action dramas in recent years, deserving global recognition as a future classic. There are a thousand moments that will make you smile.
Every aspect of the show - direction, cinematography, musical score and screenwriting - has been carefully considered by a cohesive team to create a series with zero waste and maximum impact.
The premise revolves around finding happiness and joy in life, when a 29 year old office worker Togawa, convinces his nearly 40-year-old boss Nozue to heed his own advice, to embrace the present moment and let go of regret.
Tatsunari Kimura, a veteran stage actor at just 28 when this was filmed in 2022, highlights why he is one of THE actors of his generation, who uses minimal blocking (physical movement) and dialogue to conveys incredible depth, intense emotion and outstanding vulnerability. He also acts with his eyes, a rare skill in young actors. It is a great loss to millions of viewers, that he works primarily in theatre and rarely does tv work. We hope he will reconsider for an excellent role. Satoh Takeru, please team up and find the perfect opportunity to foster this incredible talent!
Kouhei Takeda, as Nozue, is sublime as he struggles to disguise Tatemae aka true feelings, with minimal facial movement. That's expert skill. His beautiful portrayal of the jaded 39 year old hits home sharply, who thinks he can stay in a position of safety, but in reality he is in danger of letting life pass by. We are uplifted by his efforts not to drown in apathy and to seek adventure and embrace joy once again.
We want to make a special mention of "Morning Dub For N", a beautiful heartbeat instrumental piece by Daisuke Nisihimura (Dunk) that resembles the traditional Japanese koto instrument, to evoke emotions in key scenes - particularly the opening sequence where Nozue contemplates his boring safe life. We also absolutely LOVED the joyous opening tune, Blue Blur, an uplifting bilingual R&B theme song with retro elements by Ryu Matsuyma featuring Mabuana. The entire score and soundtrack are perfectly positioned throughout the series and substantially enhance moving moments, and the entire viewing experience.
Viewers may feel lost when it is over. Should there be a Season 2? After careful deliberation: No. There is nothing left to add or remove. The art is perfect, as is.
Don't Miss It. You Won't Regret.

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A Great Introduction To Japanese TV and Insight into Tokyo Of Old

Watched this in early 2022 and it kickstarted my renewed obsession with Japanese culture and language, which had been dormant for decades since high school. The pace is energetic, the settings are suitably 90s realistic (we remember those gritty times), the characters and actors deliver realistic cruelty, disillusionment or discontentment and the story is dynamic. It is after all, based on several angles of reality.

You'll binge the series in a day and arrive at the end breathless, declaring: "Hang on! I need MORE!"

We are about to watch the sequel season, and will write a more detailed review in the coming weeks. Stay tuned.
"Follow" to get our latest reviews! THANKS FOR READING ~ Fumiyawagi

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