Naguru Onna (1998)

Recipe for a perfect dorama: take two great leads (Wakui Emi is simply to die for, here...and I guess Fukikoshi Mitsuru will have the same effect on the female audience), add some very good supporting actors (Amami Yuki and Ono Takehiko most of all, but everyone else also does a good job), mix everything with a nice, light and entertaining plot and most of all with lots and lots of witty and überfunny dialogues, give everything that unmistakable, unbeatable 90's flavor, and finally serve: the viewers will appreciate. Now, I can't speak for everyone else, of course, but believe me, THIS viewer was delighted from the very first minute to the very last! Perfect 10/10! :)

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Fighting for a Place to Belong

Who knew a boxing drama from 1998 would sneak its way into my favorites list? Naguru Onna isn’t just about punches and sweat; it’s about finding your place in the world—and sometimes that place just happens to be a boxing ring. What surprised me most was how the story, despite leaning on familiar sports tropes, felt fresh and emotionally grounded. At its core, it’s about two people—an ex-office worker chasing a dream and an unlikely trainer—who find purpose and connection through boxing. The chemistry between Wakui Emi and Fukikoshi Mitsuru is the real hook here—effortless, heartfelt, and genuinely fun to watch.

What really threw me (in a good way) was how the story focused more on the female lead than the boxer himself. Wakui Emi was fantastic as the reluctant trainer, and watching her grow was honestly more satisfying than the punches thrown. Fukikoshi Mitsuru was also great—he really sold the boxer role, making every match feel real, not staged. And can we talk about the second leads? Especially the second female lead—she was written with so much depth, I started wondering if she was secretly the main character.

Another thing I loved was that every character—yes, everyone—had their moment to shine. Courage, growth, and emotional punches weren’t just reserved for the leads. This drama deserves way more attention. A total hidden gem that hits all the right notes—and yes, it knocks you out in the feels. If you’re looking for something sincere, well-acted, and quietly powerful, give this one a shot.

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