I absolutely loved this series. It’s a hidden gem, full of symbolism, and it explores loneliness, aging, and unconventional love stories (age-gap relationships) with such sensitivity and respect that it feels genuinely heartfelt and honest.
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.
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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