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A Truly AMAZING, heartfelt survival drama - with loads of cute dogs!
A beautifully produced, absolutely riveting drama with realistic scenery, outstanding animal acting and the always excellent value Takuya Kimura as "The Captain", alongside outstanding established senior actors and cast. 10 episodes of an hour each, that highlight the politics, post war mood and national ambitions of 1950s Japan. The finale is indeed gripping and a reminder that early explorers truly risked everything to create new knowledge and science. I know you will love it and will rush straight out the next day to get an Alaskan hound ... maybe! 😃Was this review helpful to you?
A Perfectly Crafted 2 Hour Masterpiece of Joy. Do Not Miss
"Old Fashion Cupcake" stands as one of Japan's finest live-action dramas in recent years, deserving global recognition as a future classic. There are a thousand moments that will make you smile.Every aspect of the show - direction, cinematography, musical score and screenwriting - has been carefully considered by a cohesive team to create a series with zero waste and maximum impact.
The premise revolves around finding happiness and joy in life, when a 29 year old office worker Togawa, convinces his jaded nearly 40-year-old boss Nozue to heed his own advice, to embrace the present moment and let go of regret.
Tatsunari Kimura, a veteran stage actor at just 28 when this was filmed in 2022, highlights why he is one of THE actors of his generation, who uses minimal blocking (physical movement) and dialogue to conveys incredible depth, intense emotion and outstanding vulnerability. He also acts with his eyes, a rare skill in young actors. Unfortunately for millions of viewers, he works primarily in stage theatre and rarely does tv work. We hope he will reconsider for an excellent role. Satoh Takeru, please team up and find the perfect opportunity to foster this incredible talent!
Kouhei Takeda, as Nozue, is sublime as he struggles to disguise his Honnae aka true feelings, with minimal facial movement. That's expert skill. His beautiful portrayal of the lonely 39 year old hits home sharply, a man who thinks he can stay in a position of safety, but in reality he is in danger of letting life pass by. We are uplifted by his efforts not to drown in apathy and to seek adventure and embrace joy once again.
Here, a special mention is made of "Morning Dub For N", a beautiful heartbeat instrumental piece by Daisuke Nisihimura (Dunk) that resembles the traditional Japanese koto instrument, to evoke emotions in key scenes - particularly the opening sequence where Nozue contemplates his boring safe life. We also absolutely LOVED the joyous opening tune, Blue Blur, an uplifting bilingual R&B theme song with retro elements by Ryu Matsuyma featuring Mabuana. The entire score and soundtrack are perfectly positioned throughout the series and substantially enhance moving moments, and the entire viewing experience.
Viewers may feel lost when it is over. Should there be a Season 2? After careful deliberation: No. There is nothing left to add or remove. The art is perfect, as is.
Don't Miss It. You Won't Regret.
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Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!
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Stunning On All Levels, A Must Watch Romance
I have rewatched the series and telemovie at least twice. This is a wonderful love story, that so many people will relate to. Akaso Eiji is one of those actors who can speak with eyes, and express emotions without saying a word, and has fantastic physical comedy ability; Keita Machida says so much with just a smile or simple movement. Several of the support actors really shine in the smallest moments. It should be made available on Netflix as it is such a fantastic, modern dramedy that begs for a huge audience. A do not miss ! Although it is highly restrained (the kisses are few and are disguised by elevator doors etc), the chemistry and love of the two MLs is obvious and you will watch with a smile on your face.Was this review helpful to you?
Substantially Different To The Original, But Great Fun
Fans of Cherry Magic (Japan) will enjoy this very heartwarming series adapted to Thai social and office culture. The MLs are considerably more open and the workplace scenes are more direct and personal. The T-pop is fabulous, so have your Shazam and Spotty ready!Talent abounds in this series: special mention goes to "Junior" Panachai Sriariyarungruang who portrays Tsuge/Jinta. Junior is a riot and brings amazing physical comedy and true heart to this role and elevates the entire series. He will go very far in his career, with careful script choices. And "Sing" Harit Cheewagaroon aka Rokakku / Rock is full of pep and stays true to the OG character, but also displays depth and credibility and has excellent potential as future serious romantic lead.
There is some drama overload with some side characters, reducing the MLs to background extras at times.
Thank you for reading! Please feel free to "Follow" for more reviews, or say hello! ~ Fuyimawagi
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This review may contain spoilers
Worth It Just For The Shower Scene
... and that's the only spoiler Fumiyawagi will give you, that Episode 2 contains one spectacular, blindingly sexy, clothing free minute for Keita Machida devotees. We are still watching the series and will update this review in due course. Keita is in almost scene and appears to be carrying the weight of the show.We have watched several series and movies starring Keita Machida and believe he is destined for Hollywood, as a genuinely talented actor. No doubt when they find out he's shredded to the max, speaks 3 languages and has an Academy Award worthy smile ... the phone will be ringing off the hook! Creative Artists Agency, where are you?
Thank you for reading! Follow to be notified of future reviews! ~ Fumiyawagi
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