Japanese LGBT+ Main & Side Characters/Romances

#102

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: This was just so funny! Not as hilarious as Kieta Hatsukoi, of course, but it had me bursting out into hysterical laughter at least once every episode.

Kouta was an iconic character. "Fuck the law" and "I don't care if I look like a stalker" just killed me!

Also, the consent was great!

Give it a shot when you have the time.

Consent Highlight: He saw he seemed a bit uncomfortable but wasn't saying anything so he just gave him a kiss on the cheek and said he would wait to kiss him when he agrees. My heart ❤

I saw Kurosawa-respectful type behavior here. I had a flashback to the legendary forehead kiss.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#104

Main romance between two MLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't an issue here.

My thoughts about the drama itself: They managed to create an atmosphere that captured the melancholic feelings brought about by winter as well as the end of a long relationship. However, something about this left me feeling cold about the drama itself. It was missing something. Perhaps a more thorough resolution.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#105

Main romance between two MLs, as well as, in my opinion, a Gender-Questioning—could also be Trans but I think that's less likely—character, they (I'm using they/them since it seems unclear what pronouns this character would prefer) go by the name Kagami Meguru. We also got a Queer SFL, Madoka (through flashback,s it is revealed that she was dating a woman).

Regarding Meguru, they are feminine-presenting. As to their own gender identity, when "found out," they say the following to Ritsu and Masumi: "For one, I don't want to necessarily become a girl. The truth is . . . My hobby is uploading erotic selfies on social media. I just never had the courage to step outdoors dressed like a girl. That's why I decided to try it out before dying."

Regarding Ritsu, he himself states that he is Bi.

Regarding Masumi, he himself states that he is Gay.

My thoughts on the drama itself: I didn't like some of the comments they made regarding suicide, but overall, I found this drama a worthwhile watch.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#106

Main romance between two MLs, Kataoka Kinji and Odajima Ren.

Regarding Kataoka, he is likely as not Bi.  Before and even after getting intimate with Odajima, he expresses his attraction for women (he is a huge flirt). He never directly addresses his sexuality, but at the very least, we know men and women are both sexual/romantic options for him. If you ask me my personal opinion, based on vibes alone, I get the feeling he's open to anyone, making him Pan.

My thoughts on the drama itself: This was bold. The kind of bold I didn't always approve of, but also admired many times.

I just felt it lacked . . . Time. Time to really soak in the hazy, messy, conflicted feelings they had for each other while on the road before everything else happened.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#107

Main romance between two MLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't an issue here.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Well, this was a weird but fun watch that could only come from Japan!

I really liked how, when it came down to it, this was about two kind-of-kinky people who just hadn't had a proper conversation with each other about where they're at in their relationship, with one lead being terribly dense and unwilling/anxious to fully voice his desires and concerns and the other being forward physically all the while desperately craving simple but meaningful things from his lover: quality time together outside of sex, being relied on, being greeted at the door, and verbal expressions of affection.

All in all, I would recommend this sometimes frustrating drama.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#108

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: This drama hit the ground running with a great opening to hook in viewers. From there, things only seemed to get better, with creative stylistic cuts and smooth comparisons between the MLs in the past and present. These two also had a great teasing push-and-pull dynamic to their relationship—they were delightfully sharp and to the point in their retorts.

However, I'm sad to say that I felt like this drama ended with a whimper in the last episode. Not necessarily like they rushed things, but that the key points along the way didn't hit right.

I'd say it's worth a watch; just don't expect a masterpiece.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#109

Main romance between two MLs.

Okay. Let's talk rep. Specifically, Kazuma (main ML), since Ren completely and openly embraces his sexuality. Kazuma does not struggle with his feelings for Ren. But accepting his clear Queerness? I definitely think so. 

Maybe it was just the imperfect translation of some important lines, but based on what was said in a key scene in Ep 7 as well as in previous episodes (Ren and others constantly say Kazuma's not Gay and he completely goes along with it and/or responds that he just likes Ren or something else incredibly vague) there's really a valid reading that they used the "I just like you" rather than have Kazuma be a legitimately Queer character. And I am NOT a fan of that being a valid reading! The "I just like you" is a years old, horribly tired, and annoying trope from Thai BLs that should be dead already, not reappearing in a J-BL in 2023. I mean, it could be they were trying to say he's Pan without actually saying it, but if so, they failed (in my opinion). Finishing this drama, I was just left with a bad taste in my mouth as far as how they were/were not having him label his sexuality. Like, clearly, at the very least, he likes men. Therefore, not Straight. Therefore, some flavor of the rainbow. So what gives?

We need to not only stop treating Bi/Pan people like they don't exist but also like the terms don't exist. You can use the word! 

My thoughts on the drama itself: It had all the ingredients for an excellent drama: Solid acting, gorgeous cinematography, a compelling backstory, and an interesting direction to take the plot. However, I felt something was lacking. I can't put my finger on it exactly. Finishing it, though, I just feel . . . Incomplete, somehow.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#110

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It starts off really good but the last four episodes really drag. I still enjoyed watching it, but I was frustrated to see Minato fail to make progress each week.

The acting and tension were great, though. No complaints there!

Can be found on GagaOOLala or free websites

#111

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: There was some obvious toxicity in the beginning, but that quickly smoothed out, and it became about a frustrating but sweet couple facing challenges and learning together.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#112

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: As someone who adored the film adaptation and has gone back to it again and again and again, this was pretty darn faithful, showing how one meaningful connection can expand someone's world and how all you really need is one person to see and understand you, just one.

I liked how this Taichi showed more of an interest in Kohei right off the bat, which led to some lovely, thoughtful moments. And Kohei was more forward with his feelings in his own way. However, over time, I did begin to feel like the drama was dragging its feet. By making Taichi more attached to Koehi but also more dense, there was this constant circling around his feelings. And while I, of course, was happy to see them explore hearing loss and the different perspectives and struggles of people who are deaf/hard of hearing, I think it took away valuable time that could have been spent with Taichi and Kohei. While they focused on Taichi's passion for making a better world/helping others, Kohei ended up taking a backseat. Some later episodes had barely any scenes of Taichi and Kohei together, let alone from Kohei's point of view.

The ending also didn't quite sit right. While it did its job and was sweet, it felt rushed and lacking.

I think this drama wanted to be bigger than it was and lost itself a bit.

I wasn't disappointed, per se; I just think they could have done more.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagagOOLala

#113

Main romance between two MLs. 

Mamoru talks several times about his realization that he likes guys. No "It's just you!" here! :)

My thoughts on the drama itself: It's kooky in a good way. I agree with other MDlers in that this reminded me of A Man Who Defies the World of BL. It's got a similar style.

I had some laughs, and it's fun and all . . . But the build to a romance wasn't done very well, in my opinion.

I would say you will enjoy this more if going into it you view it as a slice-of-life-ish-comedy rather than a romance.

Side Thoughts: I thought it was neat and unique of this drama to reverse the trope of BL writers being women who just have some obsession with writing about Gay guys in a stereotypical/unrealistic fashion and make it be an actual Gay man doing it. 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#114

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It wasn't fantastic or anything. But it kind of grew on me *shrugs*

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#118

Main continuing romance between two MLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't an issue here.

My thoughts on the drama itself: At the beginning of watching this, I found myself in the minority of people who weren't too upset about the premise, even though it was like a step backward. Minato has always been a jumpy and nervous overthinker, like a rabbit. Would it be nice if he'd made more progress? Of course. But I got it.

But as things progressed, I grew more annoyed at the drama and Minato putting off clearly expressing his feelings. At the end of the day, it was just unfair to Shin. Minato is generally a person who is not good at saying how he feels outright or initiating physical contact himself, which isn't bad in itself at all. But he should have sat down and had a VERY clear conversation with Shin about it; let Shin know he's not holding back to be mean or because of his age.

Also, near the last half of the drama, it felt like the writers just straight-up ran out of ideas and just threw a dart at a bunch of tropes written on the wall and went with it. To be fair, it did make me laugh at how out-of-left-field things went.

Do I recommend it? Ehhhhhhh . . . Maybe.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#119

Main romance between two MLs and, additionally, in my opinion, a likely Pansexual SML, Akihiko. He just gave me "I'm open to anyone" kind of vibes. Just did. Lol. Also, he said, "I dated men before." So, we do know for sure he has/has had an interest in men and women. My gut doesn't say Bi, though.

My thoughts on the drama itself: The first episode was great and set the tone for this drama. It really makes you think of an anime (makes sense as it is an adaptation of one). Especially with things such as the opening description of the main character, the shots/lighting that were used, etc.

The two leads are intriguing in different ways. The main lead has a too-cool-for-school personality, but he is also a pushover and he feels a lot more than he lets on. The second main lead has NO sense of personal space. Lol. And he is also carrying a heavy burden that constantly leaves him feeling sad as well as apathetic.

I haven't seen the anime, so I can't compare this live-action version to it.

While I enjoyed this, I think it would have been more suited for this to be in a movie format rather than a short drama. I think it would flow a lot better that way as far as pacing.

Not as great as it could have been, but I was very glad to have seen it.

Can be found on Crunchyroll or free websites

#120

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Sometimes, I was charmed. Sometimes, I found their reactions too fake.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki 

#121

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: A kooky little drama with a bit of heart that was good for some laughs and smiles. I felt things didn't flow as well after the halfway mark, though, which is why I'm not rating it higher.

In general, I'd still recommend it to pass the time, though.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagaOOLala

#122

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It was sweet. Really. And far more sincere than I anticipated. And neither ML was one-dimensional; they were aware but flawed. A strong sense of responsibility, but at the cost of being too trusting of others. A natural confidence, but a struggle to be vulnerable when it matters.

Sadly, it really fell off for me near the end!

Here's the thing: It did touch on some more serious topics/roadblocks for the couple as to why committing and feeling safe wasn't such an easy ask, but it didn't go far enough. It would talk about how thoughtful something and/or someone was, but not ACTUALLY go into detail or show anything. In other words, constantly monologuing to the viewer about the drama itself.

I almost think I would have liked it better if they cut out the finale entirely! Or if they spent the last couple of episodes showing Shizuma and Minato working on building a solid foundation for their relationship.

Overall, really quite alright, but could have been better.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#125

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: At times, it was a refreshing watch. Overall, I just felt like this had a lot of wasted potential.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala 

#126

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Alright. So, sometimes, it was sweet and charming. But, overall, I just felt this was SO clumsily put together. As if they were just like, "Okay, forming a connection around food. Now what?"

I'd say you can skip this one, my dear MDLers.

 Note: .5 out of my rating is just pity points, though.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#127

Main romance between two MLs, featuring two different couples.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It started out promising, appearing to be a fairly faithful remake with a lot less questionable scenes than the original, and I (for the most part) felt the chemistry between Arashi and Rei and enjoyed the creative decisions they made with their story/dialogue that resulted in many tender moments.

However, I could not buy into Fuma and Kai having even a spark between them, and I feel like the original Thai adaptation had a lot more impact with what were supposed to be the biggest and most dramatic moments. You could blame this on the difference in production quality, subpar acting, editing choices, etc. However, I think it was a combination of all of these factors and, above all, the limited runtime. If they had time to linger and let the viewers and characters actually sit with their feelings, I think it would have come across as more genuine.

Would I recommend it? Yeah, no.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#128

Main romance between two MLs.

I will warn you that this features an unhealthy relationship with manipulation, lies, etc.

My thoughts on the drama itself: My feelings about this are kind of mixed. It was very well-acted and shot.  But, personally, I was a bit uncomfortable with the constant dirty words. I knew what I was getting into when I watched this, though. I just didn't expect it to be SO upfront about the premise. I almost skipped this entirely, but I'm sort of glad I didn't. But, I DID have to skip a couple scenes that were too much for me.

It did hold my attention though. And I found the characters compelling and different than what I've seen before. But, I'm still not sure how I feel about the climax, or the ending.

I think it's possible to find something here and may be worth watching once. 

Non-Con/Dub-Con Warning!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#129

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: In preparation for watching this, I rewatched most of The Pornographer. This does have some more artistic shots and colors, but I think that just comes down to this having a bit of a different style.  

It wasn't as engaging as The Pornographer. And the motivations of the characters didn't make sense sometimes. Plus, there was a disgusting incident that wasn't fully addressed.

If you liked The Pornographer, maybe give this a shot if you want some background story for Kijima. But, if you came for Kido, you'll just be annoyed. And if you came for the same amount of chemistry, you won't find it here.

It's objectively a 7/10 from me. Beyond that, I'm not sure what would be a proper rating to give.

Non-Con/Dub-Con Warning!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#130

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Who/what was this for?

Why?

Again, why?

Just . . . *sigh*

Don't watch it. There's no need and nothing you'll gain from it. Trust me. And the cherry on top is that the finale left a vile taste in my mouth (non-con-related). I don't even want to go into detail.

In the year of our Lord, 2025, the Takumi-kun franchise needs to be left behind by now. It had its place as a stepping stone for J-BLs, I'll grant it that. But that time is long gone, and most viewers no longer have such heavy, rose-colored glasses to tolerate it. It's a relic of its time and . . .

I say . . .

Let it die!

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#131

Main romance between two MLs. Also features a Gay SML, Liu Haoshan (also called Ryu), whose short but meaningful tragic love story is told over Ep 7.

Regarding Mahiro, he has long since come to terms with his sexuality. He makes no attempt to hide his being Gay.

Regarding Ichijou, I think that an argument could be made for him being Bi/Pan. However, as he speaks very little specifically about his sexuality, I find myself referring to him as Queer instead.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Honestly, this low rating hurts my soul because Japan and food usually result in something special and wonderful.

I hate to say what I'm about to say:

My disappointment has ended with this drama's conclusion as I will finally be free of watching it next week.

This one is a skip, my dear MDLers. The beginning episodes will fool you into thinking it will be good, but it will become frustrating to an inconceivable degree until you can only sigh as you watch it (if you have NDD and can't drop for shit, that is).

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#132

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTZ4hu68nJF26XAwCJ5pvE8ZDVaHiF-qT

#133

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTZ4hu68nJF26XAwCJ5pvE8ZDVaHiF-qT

#134

Main romance between two MLs.

Regarding Kaoru, he is quite clearly Bi. He discusses his attraction to/has relationships with both men and women. 

My thoughts on the drama itself: What a creative use of cuts and playing with time! Small indie projects like this just hit differently.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKBUT-3OTTEtr1IUBFP8N5tCc2HboEu7X&si=GgGbYQMo_1m4KyFb

#135

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKBUT-3OTTEtGLCJUSn7aVWNrcmvHn6Gx&si=N9SvVAJWwFcJ_qE2

#136

Main romance between two MLs.

Regarding Hikawa Toru (a main ML), he is quite easily Bi. He has a girlfriend before he catches feelings for and dates Akagi Masumi (ML). He doesn't state he now realizes he's Gay or deny his previous attraction to a woman. He simply accepts that the person he's now fallen for is a man.

I'm pleased.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Boy, were things bafflingly easy for these two! And this drama was bafflingly fun!

I swear, everyone around them looked at them and immediately concluded they liked each other based on very little. It was incredibly amusing for everyone's reaction to be, "I knew immediately!" and "So?" down to the students, teachers, principal, and parents. It was wild!

Can be found on GagagOOLala

#137

Main romance between two MLs. Does feature bullying and dark themes.

Personally, I think what's going on between these two could more so be classified as a blossoming romance. 

My thoughts on the drama itself: A strange yet uplifting watch that could only come from Japan. The only thing is that the ending really confused me. 

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#138

Main romance between two MLs as well as a side romance between two FLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#139

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It was a short, fairly entertaining watch. Not much else to it.

Link to Ep 1-3: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIBpX20YnmIio0UGovUu57yeZdzYTODUf&si=smYjOpquqkxzl6tm

The rest of the episodes can be found on the mov app or free websites

#140

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Thingmedia or free websites

#141

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on UniReel app or free websites

#142

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Vigloo app or free websites

#143

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on free websites

#144

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on free websites

#145

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Shortime

#146

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on BUMP app

#147

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on BUMP app

#148

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Trakt or free websites

#149

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on SWIPEDRAMA app

#151

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on YouTube or free websites

#152

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known

#153

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known

#154

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known

#155

Main blossoming love between two young boys. 

It so perfectly and painfully captures the Queer experience.

My thoughts on the movie itself: "Who's the monster?!"

I am so profoundly grateful, angry, and sad at this. I can't say anything more than that, though. Not a thing. I can't and I won't. Because watching it for the first time . . . You have to go in open but blind.

And I am so . . . So . . . So . . . Glad I went in blind. 

Can be found on Amazon Prime

#156

Main blossoming romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself (which also includes my thoughts on the rep): Ahhh! This was such a stress-free watch. These two! Everyone around them easily understands that they are meant to be with each other and intentionally tries to give them time together/avoid interfering with their relationship. And the quiet romance between them and near/unspoken confessions? My heart!

Not to mention, the overwhelming love of food and laid-back atmosphere made me feel like I was enjoying a delicious bowl of chicken soup on a cold day.

That sequel needs to be out already!

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#157

Main continuing romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: I swear, this sequel was even warmer than the first movie. What a gentle and supportive love Aki and Haru have for each other.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#158

Hinted and subtle main romance between two MLs.

I'm just going to put my whole review here as I feel it best summarizes my thoughts: Quite gory, but also stylistically beautiful. This was very unique. I can't compare it to the source material, but I very much enjoyed this.

Unlike many who reviewed/commented on this movie, I don't think they tried to make this just a bromance, even though that's what one of the tags says. I didn't get that at all.

I wasn't looking for it, but for me, their relationship was a very quiet and subtle romance. It was implied enough that they knew, I knew, you knew, and we knew that their connection was deeper than merely friends and/or work partners. It didn't need to be overtly stated or shown with a kiss.

It was basically: We all know what's going on here. We don't need to talk about it because we already know.

Can be found on free websites

#159

Main romance between two MLs.

Yuzuru is a raging Bisexual and Seryou is—probably, if not Bi—a raging Pansexual. You know I'm right! Just admit it. It's easier that way. 

My review was too long so I'll just link to it here: https://kisskh.at/13642-seven-days-monday-thursday/reviews

Can be found on free websites

#160

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My review for the first movie is the review for this second movie as well, since they are telling the same story (I personally consider them to just be one very long movie and highly recommend watching them back to back).

Can be found on free websites

#161

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: It was all so painful and passionate. Controlled yet wild.

I fear my desire for "more" after watching this movie.

It was everything and so, so much more than I could have ever envisioned.

It deserves a standing ovation from the world, which serves as a captive audience.

And, really, the ONLY thing I can and will critique is the introduction and conclusion of the title. But that small critique pales in comparison to the majesty of everything else to be found here.

Can be found on Netflix

#162

Main romance between two MLs with a focus on family.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Beautiful. It was so real and the setting was gorgeous. They managed to capture loneliness and longing in Shun, and regret (as well as longing) in Nagisa.

These didn't feel exactly like the same people from the prequel, but I could see sparks of their old selves at times.

I was very moved by this movie. My emotions overcame me so it's hard for me to describe it as well as I normally would any other completed drama or movie as I keep thinking back to specific moments. Forgive me for that. Maybe I'm feeling as overwhelmed as Shun was, picking up the sweater and thinking back.

I do have to note how precious the kid, Sato, was. She was so sweet, brave, and curious about the world.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#164

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on family and coping.

Putting my review here as I really can't figure out how else to word my thoughts: It conveys the reality of Queer life and just life: Masking, shit-talking, supporting, loving, and coping.

Others have put why this movie is so great into much more beautiful words. I'd simply recommend reading their reviews to understand.

Can be found through fansubbers/free websites

#165

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Brief thoughts on the movie: He finally claimed ownership! "He's mine. My Beautiful Man."

Link to Poem Post (in case you're curious): https://kisskh.at/profile/8835865/feeds/k2OJ7IJ

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#166

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on hearing impairment and deafness.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Really sweet, and heartbreaking at certain points. This movie dares you to challenge the way you think about people with hearing impairments and gives you a different perspective. The relationship between the leads was also very natural.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or free websites

#168

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: I can't believe it took me this long to get to it!

It was interesting to see the growth they underwent here compared to the first and second seasons. One thing never changes, though: They continue to grow old and eat good food together. 

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#169

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A snappy, fun, and heartfelt movie that continued things from where the drama left off very well.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#171

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala (with a VPN) or free websites

#173

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the series itself: Just a nice little continuation of the side characters' stories/romances.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#174

Continuing main romance between two MLs, featuring two different couples.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#175

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a little special continuing the drama's story.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#176

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

This was sweet and funny and gave more insight into Adachi and Kurosawa.

Can be found on YouTube or free websites

#177

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a sweet additional episode :)

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#178

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a nice extra little story.

Can be found on YouTube

#179

"Continuing" main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the special itself: I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would!

They did a lot with so little time. I enjoyed seeing the side couple get a chance to shine, and in particular thought the metaness of it all was not just fun but clever.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#180

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

It was nice to see these extra moments. It was an enjoyable watch.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#181

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A very short and sweet little epilogue with the MLs spending a morning together.

Can be found on free websites

#182

Main romance between two MLs, with a prominent love triangle.

My thoughts on the special itself: Felt like I finally had to watch this. It was definitely nowhere near as good as the original drama or the following spinoffs/sequels. Honestly, I'd recommend skipping it. It's not really funny or has any real charm to it.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#183

Features a Queer SFL, Kanno Seira, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Asagi Soramame. She does make some choices that are not kind but is not herself an unkind person.

We get very obvious clues as to Seira liking Soramame, with Ep 8 seeing her outright admitting to the ML, Umino Oto, that she likes her, as well as later in the final episode confessing to Soramame over the phone. Throughout glimpses into Seira's life/scenes with her, we never actually learn about or see her discuss her sexuality, though. Thus, leaving me to label her Queer rather than a Lesbian, contrary to the MDL tag.

I wouldn't recommend watching this for the rep alone as it wasn't very present in the drama. Now, the drama itself, I did find compelling. See my review below.

My thoughts on the drama itself: A drama full of coincidences and missed chances, and characters somehow inspired to find optimism and joy for life and their dreams. This felt like taking an evening walk in a park with a charming stranger. The sun is almost close to setting, and the world is aglow with warm, orange light, and something about the stranger's smile makes them seem almost familiar.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#185

Features a Lesbian SFL, Imayoshi Reiko, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Mamoru. Ep 7 & 8 are where her feelings are clearly laid out (though it is hinted at in previous episodes) as she at first plans to leave the company since just being at Mamaoru's side but not being able to be with her how she wants is painful. However, after she gets outed by someone online and receives support from Mamoru and everyone else at Three Star Books--they declare that they wouldn't work with people who wouldn't support who she is in the first place--she decides to stay. Finally, during the last episode, through a casual line from Mamoru, we find out Imayoshi now has a girlfriend and is quite happy with her.

Though we didn't get to spend much time with the character Imayoshi herself, I found the words and actions of the other characters to speak volumes and, in my opinion, do well advocating for Queer people. All in all, very solid rep.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#186

Features a Lesbian SFL, Sanae Ebato, who has unrequited feelings for and a brief relationship with the main FL, Yasuroka Hanabi. She was morally grey/dark like everyone else, which I found fitting. I think if they had made her the one perfect/morally righteous character, it would have felt like pandering rather than an easy inclusion of a Queer character who suited the drama's theme/matched the other characters' tone. So, personally, I'm glad they went the route they did with her.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#189

Features a side romance between two FLs, Kawase Saki and Yoshino Manami.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It was visually spectacular, well-shot, and (dare I say) had artistic merit. Clearly, they were leaning toward a more experimental angle and trying to intertwine everyone's stories into a deeper message. However, the lack of time they had . . . Showed. The problem was that not enough time was spent developing the relationships between the characters or lingering on the aftereffects of one person's actions/words on another; what should have cut like a knife only left a single scratch.

Regarding the FL, it seemed overall like she didn't have agency. She was very reserved, and rather than making decisions that weren't the best for her, it was more like things just happened to her, and she went along with it. It didn't fit with her "Nevertheless," they were going for, at least in my opinion.

As for the side romance between Manami and Saki, while admittedly heart-tugging, I found it underdeveloped (especially compared to the Korean Nevertheless). If there were only some more background moments between them to establish their connection.

Can be found on Netflix

#190

Main blossoming romance between two FLs. These two basically have what they think are unrequited crushes but very obviously aren't. By the end, it seems like the natural continuation of their relationship would result in dating.

My thoughts on the drama itself: They both constantly misread the situation/what the other girl was thinking. Lol. I loved it! It was cute AND funny!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-PWvwJngGZAyNAhGi1D1J_1cpqPL5oIU

#192

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: The atmosphere they managed to create was simply masterful. This feeling of drifting away from reality and sinking into the dark recesses of your mind. I loved the lighting and use of shadows.

And, in hindsight, knowing her name and her story, everything made sense. For what (on the surface) appeared to be a silly premise, they really took it seriously and set it up so well.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#194

Main romance between two FLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't much of an issue here.

Regarding Riko, it was lovely to see her explore not only a romance with Kei but also just come out of her shell more.

Regarding Kei, she was so easily Bi! Love to see it!

Riko to Kei: "Do you like girls?"

Kei: "Girls, boys, I do like both."

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyqngFOTdamAXFE9oFKVflhYaYCM75hRU

#197

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Cute and entertaining as it was, I ultimately found this drama lacking. A big contributing factor to this is that in comparison to Ayaka's overwhelming determination and commitment to her feelings and to Hiroko, Hiroko felt "flaky" with her constant evasions and half-efforts. I wanted their relationship to be more equal.

Not to mention, the resolution felt rushed.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#198

Main romance between two FLs.

I hate to say this . . . But I found myself more interested in the plot outside of the romance. And, while they were cute together, I felt the story would have been more interesting if it had been about Sayuri coming to terms with her father's marriage and accepting Yui as her new sister.

Side Note: I was really upset that Yui not only chose a completely inappropriate moment to kiss Sayuri but that she also didn't ask for her consent. We do not let that fly here!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdTbAAy4JGzj26Vn8LKpyHvFxFIt76UNy