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This review may contain spoilers
Lukewarm Suzume
I went into this with the hope that I would be thrilled like I was with Old Fashioned Cupcake. Same premise. Older boss, bolder subordinate. Fairly attractive and likeable cast. The first few episodes did deliver. The last didn't. Mainly because of Suzume-chan. Its expected that in the beginning he would be completely opposite to Keishi and over time they would grow closer together. In the story line they did, but visually it never clicked. The directors allowed them to check off the list but forget to check off them visually complimenting each other to finally be a couple.
The script lacked the charm past the awkward stage. Suzume remained in that stage to the end. Wardrobe was lacking with Keishi who didn't look the part outside of his suits. It's a given that Suzume would be conservatively dressed as he was on the threshold of turning 40. Keishi didn't have the finesse in casual clothes which was a bit offputting next to Suzume.
Their conversations were base level with nothing outstanding or humorous. The entire feel of the series was hindered by 11.5 episodes of Suzume's reclusiveness and self denial. It's as if they lifted the blueprint of Old Fashioned Cupcake and left the majority of the good bits behind.
The office environment was shown to be hectic but very complimenting and helpful. So, we are left wondering, how self deprecating a person can be with so much positivity and good will surrounding him. It stands to reason that he would have opened up to at least one person without putting up any walls. Here Keishi fits in. Though he was triggered by Keishi impromptu response at a certain point, he himself was not ready then to open up to everyone around him. He knew he loved him but was choosing to stay alone for what reason? It shifted from safeguarding his heart to protecting Keishi's reputation and finally to desperation.
It was enjoyable to a degree but so less than what it could be. I appreciated the part where Keishi refrained from pushing the sexual part of their relationship due to Suzume not being ready. The numerous stuffed toys gave insight to his desire to create his own world. The cute plushie speaking reminded me of Love is Poison but without the humor. Still was cute. The entire staff offering assitance and rooting for each other was a welcome change. Especially Keisuke who was genuinely concerned for his happiness. This was a pleasant enough watch. I just expected more.
The script lacked the charm past the awkward stage. Suzume remained in that stage to the end. Wardrobe was lacking with Keishi who didn't look the part outside of his suits. It's a given that Suzume would be conservatively dressed as he was on the threshold of turning 40. Keishi didn't have the finesse in casual clothes which was a bit offputting next to Suzume.
Their conversations were base level with nothing outstanding or humorous. The entire feel of the series was hindered by 11.5 episodes of Suzume's reclusiveness and self denial. It's as if they lifted the blueprint of Old Fashioned Cupcake and left the majority of the good bits behind.
The office environment was shown to be hectic but very complimenting and helpful. So, we are left wondering, how self deprecating a person can be with so much positivity and good will surrounding him. It stands to reason that he would have opened up to at least one person without putting up any walls. Here Keishi fits in. Though he was triggered by Keishi impromptu response at a certain point, he himself was not ready then to open up to everyone around him. He knew he loved him but was choosing to stay alone for what reason? It shifted from safeguarding his heart to protecting Keishi's reputation and finally to desperation.
It was enjoyable to a degree but so less than what it could be. I appreciated the part where Keishi refrained from pushing the sexual part of their relationship due to Suzume not being ready. The numerous stuffed toys gave insight to his desire to create his own world. The cute plushie speaking reminded me of Love is Poison but without the humor. Still was cute. The entire staff offering assitance and rooting for each other was a welcome change. Especially Keisuke who was genuinely concerned for his happiness. This was a pleasant enough watch. I just expected more.
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