Himitsu: The Top Secret (2025)

Textbook Reference on Live Action Adaptation Done Right - Need Sequel

Easily the best version of the manga adaptation, it's incredible how it stayed true to the original source that fans of the manga definitely approved despite some changes. People unfamiliar with the manga would still enjoy this drama very much.

Story: Rated 9/10 because I wish it was longer. And sometimes due to time constraint, the pace felt quite rushed. While the drama had a strong cast, due to the pace, not much attention was paid to the members of the Ninth. Also, the CG effects were nothing outstanding, like the car explosion or the helicopter (budget reasons I'm sure). But on the plus side, the drama didn't just deal with crime-solving, they added so much depth to the story and characters that you questioned the ethical part of their work, that you emphatised with the villains, that made you think about the grey areas and how not everything is easily categorised as right and wrong.

Cast: 10/10. On top of being strong actors, Rihito and Yuto perfectly matched their character descriptions from the manga. Strong supporting cast especially for the roles of Okabe and Kainuma.

One of the drama's main success factors is the cast members. Rihito was incredibly effective as Maki, the heart of this drama. His portrayal of Maki as the strong leader despite his small stature really left a strong mark. Impressive that at his young age, he was able to embody the complicated emotions and struggles of Maki so effectively it made us root for Maki.

Yuto was impressive as both Aoki and Suzuki. The decision to make Yuto play both characters proved a good one as Aoki and Suzuki felt like different characters, not just from hairstyle change and glasses. Even when Yuto portrayed the exact same scene as Aoki and Suzuki, it still felt like different characters. He also nailed the emotional scenes. The scene of Aoki dazed and distraught at discovering his murdered sister and her husband, holding on to his orphaned niece, as well as their funeral, was gut-wrenching.

Okabe as the comic relief yet heartwarming character acting as Maki's guardian angel made him a fan favourite. Kainuma as the main villain was bone-chilling. Yukiko was effective as the formidable pathologist and the source of romantic conflict among Suzuki, Aoki/Maki.

Special mention: Yuto and Rihito's chemistry. Yes, there was that BL undertone, which was present in the manga. The two leads had awesome chemistry with each other, which translated from their real-life dynamic. They managed to portray their characters' feelings for one another, romantic or otherwise. It was so effective that such feelings could be evoked from what was supposed to be a crime drama.

Overall, really hope they have a sequel, since the manga is ongoing. From how they ended the drama, the production probably left it open for a sequel too. We need more Maki, Aoki, and the Ninth! Easily one of the best J-dramas released in 2025. I hope Rihito and Yuto continue to get a lot of exposure from this drama. They are too talented. Rihito is a young talent for sure and Yuto is definitely up there in terms of his acting talent as an idol-actor.

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