The Emperor's Cook Episode 6

Honest Effort

"Look, I don't think it's the where that's important for people. It's what they do. Wherever they are, those who can will make it, and those who can't won't. Don't you think the right thing to do first is to show what you can do by making an HONEST effort?"

Japanese dramas tend to be very preachy, so that was nothing new. What can differentiates the drama is how the lesson is put, in what context, and the dialogs. I find it was effectively used here. Maybe it is just me, but I'm going through a phase in my life where I really needed to hear it. Honesty in the effort you display is key here. I understand Tokuzo's frustration, but he mostly exhibits impatience, and an easily inflated ego, which comes hand-in-hand with teenage hood. The curious thing he is that he doesn't manifest the typical Japanese boy of that era, that is polite and doesn't talk back to elders. Tokuzo in a way feels very much a modern teenager. That may be the reason I could pass off his mistakes as silly and understandable while his family see it as absolutely unacceptable. What I like in this drama is that he keeps repeating the same mistake, falling into the same trap, in different ways, until he finally found honesty and resolve, and calmed down his ego.

Oh man the brotherly bond in this dorama kills me. Every time I see the older brother I feel my heart getting warm and ALMOST get tears into my eyes. They are apart but keep worrying about one another. It proves that love isn't about being next to the person you care about, but you can be as far away as possible, and push each other to be their best. I also have to mention is ex-wifey. She is the same. She loves him to the point of wanting to let him go. I usually loathe noble idiocy, but in the context of this drama, I find it very understandable. I just wish she starts treasuring herself more.

I hope we see more of the guy from Kazoku Kaikan who keeps envying Tozuko, played by Emoto Tasuku. I'm not envious type (at least I hope not :P) but his character is the one I connect with the most. He's hard working but not particularly gifted. He tries his best, but doesn't have the energy to put more than the 100% that he has. He's not loud and does anything he is asked to. He's not too demanding either. He just gets easily forgotten and feels like no one notices his hard work. He feels unworthy and incapable compared to one that has what he doesn't. I wish to see his character mature as well.

All in all fun episode, nice subtle touches on character development and great dialog!

Read More