This review may contain spoilers
Very strong start but loosing it in the second half...
This series started very strong with the vibes of "Cherry Magic" and "Old Fashion Cupcake". It was really cute to watch. In the second half the series lost it's way with the hardcore denial of Suzume to allow him to be happy. The team expanded the manga in a meaningful way and I liked the episode with the co-workers children and the overtime work (because of a mistake of one of the co-workers). But most of the other episodes streched out the story without more substance. It would have been so much better when Suzume & Keishi would have grown naturally into a relationsship without the "denial" of a relationsship. Maybe they liked to be true to this aspect of the manga but for me it felt excessive. Otherwise they made the whole "marketing department" much more realistic and believable compared to the manga.While they denied us the kiss during the rain they at least did it properly in the finale which is a big plus compared to most other JBLs. The actors were choosen perfectly and I liked their version of Suzume much more. Keishi is more like the manga but more reserved. I don't think there was a problem with their chemistry. It was more mature and respectful. Suzume was acted (& directed) overly shy which irked me a bit, especially because this would not be his first relationsship, so this aspect did not make much sense for me. Considering his age, he should have handled that situation much more mature even when he acts childish in some aspects at his home.
After such a strong start it was a bit disappointing in the end. I wished they would have cut this series to the typical 8 episodes without the dragging out... but on the other hand the extra storylines added personality especially for Suzume and a realistic atmosphere. It has many cute and some fluffy moments and some moments where you might get angry. Production quality was top-notch and overall it was worth watching.
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1Sometimes slice of life, sometimes slice of why ! A drama that forgot its own starter pack/list.
On paper, this drama had a lot of potential with the premise of Tojo Suzume turning 40, staring down his uneventful life and deciding to tick things off a personal "before it's too late" list with his younger colleague Tanaka Keishi, who slowly becomes more than just a friend. Sounds charming, right? Unfortunately, that charm didn't last long. Somehow, what started all this, "the list", was forgotten completely, and too many fillers were in the second half.The first half of the drama had a light, slice-of-life feel. The height difference between them was adorable, and they had this awkward yet endearing kind of bond. It is simple and digestible, almost convincing me that we are crawling towards a warm, slow burn romance with character growth.
But then the second half arrived and there was a tonal shift that was somehow very contrasting with the first half. The list that started all this conveniently became a forgotten prop. And instead of focusing on their relationship or individual growth, we were served with irrelevant subplots.
Tojo Suzume gave me the vibes of someone who buys a lot of self-help books but abandons each after skimming through the introduction. I felt like he was never evolved in 11 episodes (excluding the finale, because everyone gains wisdom here). He was adorable with his awkwardness in early episodes, but somehow still timid and hesitant till the end.
I get the self-doubt, really I do. Midlife crises are messy, and the feeling of being stuck just doesn't easily go away. But I was expecting sprinkles of self-acceptance here and there in the latter half but what we got was a man eating rameyon, assuring himself that he is better off alone rather than actually talking about it to Keishi or even to himself.
And even if you choose to stay alone because there is nothing wrong with that, I expected him to communicate better.
Tanaka Keishi, on the other hand, brought a very different energy. Even though he was almost 10 years younger than Tojo, he was very accommodating, calm and understanding. Initially, it looked like he brought colour to Tojo's life but that thought was challenged too.
The main conflict between the couple was due to Keishi's blurting out the denial to his friend in front of Tojo. While it was harsh and somehow uncalled for or could have been worded better, he isn't the villain here in my eyes. There was regret on his face as soon as he said it. Considering how Tojo was reserved and shy, plus Keishi was also paralysed by panic in the moment. Again, not justifying the line, but Tojo cutting all the contact with him rather than hearing him out was the main reason for angst.
"This is for the best! " This is one of my least favourite character traits, where one of them makes decisions for both without considering the feelings of the opposite considering both were involved equally.
The chemistry between them was sadly not convincing enough for me. They had all it takes to be good teammates and friends, but as lovers... those sparks from the initial episode didn't last, and I am not talking about the over-sanitised physical intimacy. They did come around at the end on that, and it was indeed sweet and surprising.
Acting-wise, both the leads performed decently. Though emotional/confrontational scenes of Shoji Kohei as Tanaka Keishi could have been better, especially in episode 11.
Totally unrelated things that I liked and don't know how to categorise-
^ I love the plushies and the little pep talks it gave.
^ The editing in the last episode was smooth, and the list finally made an appearance.
^ A running reunion scene. Japanese BLs would be incomplete without it.
Overall, this was a decent one-time watch. It could have saved itself if it were a bit shorter, maybe 8 or max 10 episodes. Someone said this gave "Old fashioned cupcake" drama vibe, until it suddenly… didn’t.
It's not unwatchable, but compared to how it started, it felt very average towards the end.
Will I recommend it? That's a tough one. I love J-BLs for their slice of life, cosy vibe and unique storytelling and if you are out of J-BLs, maybe give it a try with tempered expectations.
But if you are looking for sparks, chemistry or good development, look elsewhere.
Thank you for reading my review! <3
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This review may contain spoilers
sweet first 7 episodes (watch suggestions)
Overall: the first 7 episodes were sweet and then it all went downhill. 12 episodes about 22 minutes each. Aired on GagaOOLala (not in Thailand, Taiwan, Korea or Japan) https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/5485/ten-things-i-want-to-do-before-i-turn-forty-2025-e01What I Liked
- their different personalities
- showed how a character is friendly and sweet but also did not act like a child at work
- that they clear up misunderstandings fairly quickly
- supportive sisters
- production value
Watch Suggestions (to focus on the leads being sweet)
- watch episodes 1-7
- skip episode 8 or watch 21 min-end
- episode 9 watch 7:30-15:10
- skip episodes 10 and 11
- start episode 12 at 15 minutes
Room For Improvement
- how Tojo was kind of pressured into it
- episode 8 made no sense that they only had 1 minute of screentime at the end and episode 9 ruined things before they even
- basically became an anthology series where other characters were the focus and they were sidelined
- a pet peeve is a character who supposedly loves another character causing that character immense pain and not listening to what they want, the angst dragged on for too long
- introduced a possible love rival in episode 11 (and I started to want them to be together instead)
- cliche running in the finale
- too many flashback montages in the finale
- (neutral) voicing internal thoughts
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You're never late for love! A sweet drama to treat and heal your heart and eyes.
10 things I want to do before I turn 40 is your typical J-BL, enticing you with sweet treats and slow-burn romance. This will surely remind you of "Old-fashioned Cupcake" in every way possible.As a slow burn enthusiast, I liked this drama. I liked it more because I binged it, otherwise one might feel a bit disconnected waiting for it every week. Suzume-san's personality was very relatable, and Keishi's straightforward aura blended so effortlessly that as an audience I wanted to watch their daily lives together more.
Overall, it was a lovely watch for me. If you don't mind slow, emotional fluff, then you're going to like it.
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Charming Start but Slows Down
The first few episodes were really enjoyable. I especially loved the height difference between the two male leads, and the light plot made it easy to watch. However, there was not much chemistry between them, which left me wanting more. The show mainly focuses on Tojo-san as a 40-year-old man trying to tick off life goals, which worked well in the beginning.But is it just me, or is this show going downhill? The early episodes were fun, and I honestly thought we would see Suzume and Keishi working through a list of things together before he turns 40, just like the title suggests. Sadly, that idea never really happened. Even up to the finale, and still there is little to no chemistry between the leads.
Instead of focusing on their bond, we got random distractions: first a work colleague drama, and now Suzume suddenly babysitting three kids who appeared out of nowhere.
My favourite scene was in episode 9 -
I know many people are angry with Keishi for saying, “Even if I was gay, it wouldn’t be with Tojo-san,” but my heart honestly aches for him. Those words were cruel, but I cannot forget the situation he was in. He was cornered, forced to respond in an instant, and out of fear he chose to protect himself the only way he knew how. It was not right, but it was very human.
Maybe he was also trying to protect Tojo-san in that moment. What if Tojo-san himself was not ready to come out? They never even discussed it, and they are not officially a couple yet. Saying something quickly, even if harsh, might have felt like the safest choice in that situation for both of them.
In Asian culture, especially with strong family values and generational expectations, being in a same sex relationship comes with enormous pressure. It is not as simple as just being honest, like it might be in some Western cultures. Keishi is so young, ten years younger than Tojo-san, still trying to find his place in the world. His fear of rejection and shame is understandable, even if the way he handled it caused pain.
The fact that he later called to apologize, and the way he visited Tojo-san when he was sick and cared for him, shows that his feelings are real. If this is not love, then what is.
I feel deeply sorry for both Keishi and Tojo-san. What happened between them is heartbreaking, but it is also painfully real. Many people in real life go through the same struggle, torn between love and fear, truth and survival. All we can do is hope that together they find the strength to face it, because their love deserves that chance.
My favourite moment in this series was when Tojo started deleting each item on his list. With every deletion, memories of Keiji came flooding back. The way he missed him so deeply, realising he could not live without him, was heartbreaking yet so beautiful. In that moment he found the courage to finally confess his feelings, crossing off the very last item on his list, to not be alone before turning forty. It was here that the title of the series came to life, carrying its full meaning, and it touched me so deeply to see love win in the end.
The ending was sweet and adorable, the kind of soft happiness that makes your heart swell. I only wished it lasted a little longer, perhaps even a special episode devoted to the two of them simply being together after everything they went through.
Overall, I rate it 8/10. It has charm, a light and easy start, but the lack of consistency and emotional build-up holds it back from being truly great.
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Started off strong with a Cute romance before a few frustrating episodes towards the end
Many compared “10 Things I Want to do before I Turn 40” to the other very popular drama, “Old Fashion Cupcake”. They are similar, yet not the same. I think “10 Things” has a simpler, younger-at-heart and lighter storyline. It’s more slice-of-life. On the other hand, “Cupcake” delivers a more mature romance with a similar premise of self-discovery and change. I personally like “Cupcake” more, but “10 Things” is also very enjoyable.Change has to come from within, and you have to be the one to take the first step. Suzume was lucky to have found Keishi, who walked beside him as he tried to check off his To-Do list before he turned 40. Taking this first step already takes a lot of courage. Eventually, he realizes it takes more than that first initial step and more than having someone to lead him and push him.
Suzume and Keishi are cute together. I enjoy all of their dates to check off the To-Do list. It’s nice to see Suzume open up a little, and show Keishi his love of cuteness and fluffiness. But what matters most is his feelings and he has a hard time opening up. Keishi is the one that took 99 steps forward and Suzume just took 1. But that doesn’t mean Keishi is ready to openly date Suzume. Technically, this is Keishi’s first relationship, yet Suzume acted like he’s a 40-year old virgin with no experience. Afterall, he’s had a boyfriend before, though it’s been a while. The last few episodes were heartbreaking when the reality of dating really dawns on them. Both chose to run away, before eventually resolving the conflict in the end.
I am not going to lie, it was quite frustrating watching those two in the last few episodes. It’s like they forgot they have been honest and communicative for most of the drama. They obviously like each other very much. Did they forget they can actually use words and talk to each other?
“10 Things I Want to Do before I Turn 40” is still a cute and enjoyable drama for the most part. It might not have delivered the same mature romance, chemistry and emotional impact that “Old Fashion Cupcake” has, but Suzume and Keishi are adorable together. Hey, at least they end with a nice kiss, not like THAT other popular JBL that ended with the elevator door closed in our face. LOL
Completed: 10/3/2025 Review #630
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A whole lot of fluff before it gets rough
This was such an easy binge with adorable leads and sides, not a single annoying character for as far as the eye can binge and so much fluff.The viewers are invited in to this almost 40 guys fluffy world hidden far far away from all things macho. A short guy who seems to be kind to all hard working and just as cue as cute can be in a very compact body. The other male lead is tall, young handsome, sporty and has twin sisters but we the viewers fo not really get invited in to his world other than the one tat revolves around out short male lead. These men take us on a journey to get out of ones shell daring to order complicated sweet and leaving the fluffy oh so fluffy apartment for experiences beyond the well defined work world.
However leaving this well defined world is never easy as fear, and past experiences are never truly far behind, always there lurking ready to attack. Something that was done really well.
I loved the characters in this drama, each contributed to the story as well as raised issues people do meet in as adults in a very easy going not the leas bit preachy kind of way.
Objectively speaking this may not be a 9 star drama but the way these two and their colleagues made it in to my heart and almost made me shed a tear is what pushed the rating over to the top.
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This review may contain spoilers
10 things I wish the drama did
I wish this drama:- had less episodes
- wrote better filler or just not have any if you can’t write interesting ones
- follow the manga properly
- didn’t try to erase the BL part of the manga just to make the drama ‘pure’ human drama
- had romantic chemistry between the main characters
- didn’t cut off most of intimacy from the manga bc it was important to the plot and the character development not just for eye candy (I’m talking about just kiss that wasn’t pushed to the end, not the NC scenes)
- didn’t drag unnecessary episodes that wasn’t about the main
- wasn’t made by TV Tokyo which is famously known for making high budget BL but lowkey does not want the gay part on screen
- wasn’t a waste of huge budget
- was good so i could finish it properly since I’m a huge fan of manga
In conclusion, I like Kohei and the manga so i was so excited for this only to be slapped with such disappointment and waste of high budget that not many BL could have.
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10 Things I Regretted Watching Before I Turned 40
_(aka: The Anti-Bucket List of This Drama)_1. **The Lukewarm Execution**
I wanted to like this—slow romance, feel-good vibes, meaningful premise. But the execution? Lukewarm. Tojo’s journey has heart, sure, but the chemistry is nonexistent, and the pacing drags.
2. **The Premise That Fizzled**
Tojo’s dull life slowly gains color as he tackles a list of meaningful tasks—with help from Keishi, a caring coworker who quietly nudges him out of his comfort zone. Their relationship grows at a tortoise-slow pace. It’s not slow burn—it’s slow blur. The show explores how personal growth doesn’t stop with age and how small actions can lead to a more fulfilling life. But that promise never fully delivers. The emotional payoff never arrives. I needed some fire, just a flicker, but it never came.
3. **The Chemistry/Kiss**
What I don’t like about this series is the CHEMISTRY between the leads. It's just so bland. I mean, their chemistry is about as fiery as a cold cup of tea. Not going to lie, but that KISS scene was a bit cringe.
4. **The Platonic Vibes**
Honestly, they feel more like co-workers or friendly acquaintances than, you know, a couple supposed to be romantically involved. There’s barely any physical affection, and you start to wonder if they even know what holding hands feels like.
5. **The Tentative Relationship**
The relationship between the two feels overly tentative, like two people tiptoeing around each other, more focused on being polite and accommodating than actually building romantic chemistry.
6. **The Downhill Spiral After Episode 7**
After Episode 7, it goes downhill. I started skipping scenes and fast-forwarding—never a good sign.
7. **Tojo Doesn’t Really Grow**
He goes through the motions, but there’s no real change. The tasks don’t lead to transformation—they’re just distractions. By the end, he’s not wiser, braver, or more open. He’s the same man, still hiding, just with a few errands checked off.
8. **The Forgotten List**
The list gets neglected, which is wild considering it was the main focus in the first place.
9. **The Filler Overload**
Filler episodes accumulate, causing the story to lose focus.
10. **My Time**
Would I recommend it? Nope. This was a romance brewed without heat—zero chemistry, zero spark.
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Overthinking - the 13th addition to the list
Overthinking is overrated. Do not do it.This drama is a perfect example that shows you why you shouldn't do it because what should have been an 8/10 episode arc with minimal drama or angst turned into a minefield of bad decisions and unsaid feelings.
As ever, we started out perfectly - something that many J Dramas do without fail. We got a clear setup, a solid introduction to our leads and not much delay in seeing the plot take center stage. Episode after episode, we saw Suzume and Keishii check things off of Suzume's "10 Things to do Before I Turn 40" list, and we see their relationship blossom as an intersecting plot.
Their growth as a pairing was truly spectacular, it wasn't one sided, they communicated, they were both serious and fun loving, and the direction it was headed in made me believe that this would be a very wholesome series with one episode of angst. I was wrong.
There was an exponential downfall around episode 7 where all the things I admired about them just vanished into thin air. They didn't speak to each other for around three episodes at one point! Misunderstandings, miscommunication and SO MUCH OVERTHINKING. Three to four episodes of unnecessary angst and parallel plotlines that added nothing of substance except to the audience's annoyance. By the time the finale rolled around I was kind of tired because I had just spent 1/3rd of the series slowly falling out of love with two people I adored.
This needed around four episodes less than it actually had, and a much better second half. It was frustrating after a point, and not to say I'm disappointed.. because I'm extremely disappointed. And slightly angry.
If I could, I would probably skip episodes 9-11, and just watch the finale to wrap things up. I don't think doing this will cause any confusion either because not much of substance happened in those episodes. It's a shame really, because remove them from the equation and this is a brilliant drama. But unfortunately, this has become a mid, slightly forgettable piece of work and I wish it weren't.
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Same Story, Different Title: A BL Drama Without Surprises
10 Things I Want to Do Before 40 had potential with its slightly more mature setup, but in the end, it felt like something I’ve already seen too many times before. I’m honestly not sure why I finished the series—maybe out of habit more than genuine interest. The story moves slowly, and while it tries to explore personal growth and relationships, it never really dives deep enough to make an impact.Like many recent japanese BL dramas, it suffers from the same issues: self-denying characters who avoid conflict, act overly passive, and often seem stuck in a cycle of guilt and hesitation. I understand that some of this is tied to cultural context, but it’s becoming a too repetitive formula. The characters in this series feel more like stereotypes than real people, and it’s hard to connect with them emotionally.
The pacing is also a problem—very little actually happens across the episodes, and what does happen is predictable. The chemistry between the leads is subtle to the point of being almost invisible at times. Visually, the series is fine, and the acting isn’t bad, but nothing really stands out.
If you’ve seen other similar japanese BL dramas in recent years, you’ll likely feel like you’ve already watched 10 Things I Want to Do Before 40 — just under a different name.
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Tojo Suzume is such a charming character because of how vulnerable and real he is. He’s quiet, but endearing, dreamy, sweet, and gentle. At 39, he’s facing a quiet existential crisis: stuck in a routine between home and work, no excitement, and no relationships for over a decade. That realization leads him to make a list of “10 things I want to do before I turn 40.” It’s a simple gesture, but deeply symbolic, his way of reconnecting with the world and with himself.
Tanaka Keiji, on the other hand, is confident, playful, charming, romantic, idealistic, and emotionally open. He believes in love, even when it’s messy or inconvenient. The way he challenges age differences and workplace norms shows how confident he really is.
And it’s the chemistry between Suzume and Keiji that makes this series so special. They’re opposites in many ways, but they complement each other beautifully. Keiji brings color and spontaneity into Suzume’s life, gently nudging him out of his comfort zone. His assertiveness is never pushy, it’s rooted in genuine affection and curiosity. Kazama Shunsuke and Shoji Kohei absolutely nailed their roles. Their interactions felt so sincere. Also, I have a soft spot for couples with a height difference. 😉
Suzume represents so many adults who, at some point, wonder if it’s too late to experience something new. His journey is about rediscovering joy, connection, and the courage to be vulnerable. And the answer he finds through humor, affection, and bravery is a beautiful reminder that hope is always within reach.
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