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The Great Reversal!
This is one of the few times where I have been extremely invested in a story of any kind. It was really wonderful to watch a "behind the scenes" look at how a hotel is always thinking of their guests with consideration! A type of story rarely seen recently, I think, the "behind the scenes" one; but it was amazing to watch how everyone worked very hard to muster up all their courage, pride, motivation, and excitement to create the greatest hotel reversal.The heartfelt charm and magical skills of each staff member was fantasy like, as if they really went through hotel staff training for their roles. It was really enthralling and exciting to watch them make beds, diligently work hard in their respective area(s), and power through the difficult moments. If you're looking for political or bureaucratic then this is not the story for you.... This is the story of a phoenix of sorts.
The music really added to the charm of the story, creating intimate moments and even suspenseful ones. There was some mystery within this story; episodes 6 and 7 had me on the edge of my seat, and episode 8 was really special! The atmosphere and the sharp attention to detail within this hotel were so amazing to watch as the staff cared for each guest, the hotel itself, and their ally's and coworkers was so sincere and full of respect, admiration, and genuine care that it was almost tangible through the screen!
This story is full of hope, wonder, and magic~ definitely not one to be missed on story alone; I laughed, cried, got mad, worried, and had almost had anxiety a couple of episodes. This story is full of the unimaginable and yet somehow is the most real, unique, and straightforwardly genuine group of people who truly care about their work, their friends, and their guests
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Differences in Kawaii
Everyone has their own idea of what cute is and isn't, everyone has their own thoughts about themselves whether that be self confidence, courage, low self esteem, or bravery to try something new. This show really shined a bright light on what people cherish and how they can be a better version of themselves!This story is something completely different than what I've seen before, but it does have some feelings of familiarity -- like bits and pieces were taken from different dramas and movies, nothing too huge to be obvious but little pieces were oddly similar to other story's I've seen. The dramatics of this show are completely different to normal slice-of-life or in the office dramatics; this story showed a very honest, raw, very genuine human way of living after finding ourselves lost or disappointed, and how we can build ourselves up to try again!
This is a wonderful story that shows how even if you hate where you are right now, you can still make the best of situations and create something new and fantastic for yourself!
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Becoming a Crow
This show itself is a fantastic stand-alone story because it is one, however, the more I watched the show (from beginning to the end) I couldn't help but find some similarities between this story and a couple of other drama's I have seen within the court/lawyer/investigator genre. Which only fueled my interest and admiration for this show!Some similarities lie within the cast and others within the "feel of the story", and the story itself. I left a few recommendations for this show on the recommendations page, and they may clarify for other viewers what I mean if they choose to look into the recommendations made. Also, if someone has any difference in opinions or shows that are similar, I would like to hear from anyone, if you feel comfortable enough to message or comment to me, that is.
The seriousness and the humor are a perfect balance, with each episode just as the moment became too dark and mysterious, someone within the "Ichikei" team managed to lighten the mood; whether that be with humor, a confident speech, a story that seemingly has nothing to do with the topic at hand, or just a simple "i agree" as a form of "back up" to whatever plan was created or a person in general. It was really nice seeing everyone within the "Ichikei" team as main characters. Even though it is listed that there are only two main characters throughout the show, I couldn't help but disagree. Everyone within the "Ichikei" team seemed to be "main characters" as per my own definition; the spotlight really never specifically seemed to focus on one person in particular, and none of the characters seemed to fight over who would be most important or more involved as the "main person".
The relationship within each case, and each episode, was obviously built with tangible respect, kindness, and honesty. No matter the rank of the actor/actress held in the story: clerk, judge, lawyer, prosecutor, criminal, civilian, victim, defendant, etc. It felt like the show was continuously giving life lessons within each episode, though as very comforting, self-illustrated children's books (you'll know what i mean if you watch lol). Nothing spoken about in the show, and nothing that happened was too cheesy, confusing, or hard to understand; the show progressed at a very even and thorough pace. Not one bit of this story feels left out or left behind; though the end was a bit of a cliffhanger... I, too, would very much like to see what kind of judge(s) Sakama Chizuru and Iruma Michio will become!
I do like that they took this drama, not from a criminal or law perspective, but from the judge's perspective. It was nice to see human issues that I could relate to in a show that I really liked. The weight of judging a person, the weight of having a stranger's life in your hands, their future, is really terrifying! After watching this show I feel like I can see the truth and honesty of humanity with a very raw, genuine, and unique sight. After watching this show, I feel like I can hold myself to a higher purpose; making sure I always tell the truth, and things of that nature. I'm not going out to pursue the job of a clerk, judge, lawyer, or prosecutor. But I do have to say that this show left a very strong impression on me; something very deep, very beautiful, and very honest. This show is a must watch! You will laugh, cry, get angry, worry, and almost become a detective; it is a very enthralling, mysterious, charming, intense, and immensely entertaining show!
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Favorite Comfort
This drama put me through so much in such a short time! I have never cried nor laughed as hard as I have when I watched this lovely story. The characters were absolutely perfect; the definition of small town friends and family joining together to create their own picturesque, charming, and perfect community. This is the definition of slice-of-life, there's romance and friendship and family drama(s), but there is also the medical drama(s) even though it isn't too dramatic (like emergency issues under little to no supplies or skills)... But this drama is the absolute definition of "perfection", all around!The characters and cast were picked so well, everyone fit together so amazingly! I really liked watching everyone rally around Yukino-san; and the interactions between Taiyo(u)-san and Saku-sensei. Their relationship to be boss and subordinate while also being best friends was something really special to watch; also, it was absolutely hilarious! The emotions and reactions of Taiyo(u)-san, Saku-sensei, and Masora-sensei really was fantastic to watch; I laughed, cried, worried and got angry during each episode.... Well, mostly laughed and cried. The feelings within this show are absolutely tangible; I was scared, angry, worried, happy, envious, sad, and enthralled by all of the immense and intense emotions and connections this show portrayed!
The music really helped to lighten or dramatize the moment. The music either chimed in or quietly came to a stop at just the right moment. I believe the music really helps build up a story, or it can tear it apart; even without car chases and explosions, the music really created a wonderful chemistry for everyone.
I really liked watching the villagers come together as a very tight knit community, and grow as their own person or as co-workers or friends, during each episode. To watch all the hard work everyone (staff, camera people, director, writers, producers, actors/actresses, etc) put in to the show come to life was so immaculate and depicted the perfection of raw, genuine humanity, kindness, and love. A very heartwarming, bittersweet, honest, unique story full of talent and fantastic imagination, knowledge, and respect for the human condition -- no matter what!
This show is an instant classic and my absolute favorite! Please do not skip this absolute diamond of a story!
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Freshly Brewed
...the headline is way too corny, sorry~!This show was so much more than what I thought it was going to be. The synopsis definitely encapsulates a good portion of the show, but mostly the "silver lining" and hides the "bitter, dark, muddy" stuff for later.
You really do build up an affection for the characters in this show, no matter where Aoyama-san parked his mobile coffee shop. I thought it would be something heartwarming and uplifting, a feel good show about the ups and downs within life and how we can overcome them to be better versions of ourselves.... and I don't want to say I was wrong, but..... I was maybe 50% wrong?
This show really delves in to the "past" versions of how people act(ed) and how they "saved" themselves to recreate their lives, for better or worse, and all the dangers in between. There's nothing like a warm cup of coffee or tea to help relax the mind and body, but with the right atmosphere and human connection, sometimes it can also help to heal your soul. Without being too preachy or corny (like my headline) or belittling, this show really told a fantastic story of how wonderful the human connection can be at times.
This story felt a tad like how "Kazoku Games" plot line did: by getting to the core of the issue and starting slowly from ground zero, piecing things together like a puzzle piece until you've learned what went wrong and how to fix it or how to begin again from where you're standing right at that moment. If you wander around thinking everyone else is wrong and you are perfectly correct all the time or everyone else is too bothersome to deal with or you are too smart/powerful for anyone else, then life gets boring and lonely really quick. This show really stands out by showing the viewers that not everyone is a "lone wolf", while some people need a whole flock to follow them and praise them, some people just need people to be there and listen to them, or to just drink a cup of coffee with them in silence; their company is comforting enough.
The entire world is made up of different people, full of wonderful places and things to visit and be part of. I believe that what this story showed was just that: the comfort of familiar even within the unfamiliar and the strength of humans, even at their lowest, can be immeasurable. There isn't a lot of coffee information, which I thought there would be; but it is discussed in a few episodes. None of it is very confusing, in fact it's pretty interesting! I laughed and cried, got scared in a couple of episodes, even! If you're looking for a "slice-of-life" or romance story, then this may not be for you; it isn't really heavy on either genre. But, if you're looking for something relaxing, with an entertaining story that is packed full of charm, integrity, kindness, humanity, and love... Then this is the show for you!
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Unexpected Epic
This story is not at all what I expected it to be: with an intricate story and well derived plot and dramatic detective work, this story is so much more than its synopsis!If you've heard the term "don't judge a book by its cover" then this drama fits within that category perfectly! After reading the synopsis and watching the trailer I thought it would be a feel-good comedy detective drama with an emphasis on food, but I was completely mistaken! I did not expect this show to have such an in depth look into not only the life of a private detective and his cases but the relationship between him and the people he meets, and with humanity in itself.
The characters were picked marvelously! I think with a few tweaks to their personalities it could have been a little better (you may see or hear what I mean if you watch) but its because of those quirks that this show is so amazing! I didn't recognize a few of my favorite actors/actresses while watching, it was like they completely became their character! Which is somehow kind of scary how talented they all are. I also found a couple new actors/actresses that I would like to follow; which is always nice when you watch a show or movie, I think.
The music really set the scene for a few episodes and towards the end I got really involved, I didn't even realize how much time had passed while I was watching. I binge watched this show within one whole day! I'm wondering a few things after the last episode, which I guess you could say is because of a cliffhanger, but I don't think so. I think the show ended relatively well, closing a good number of loose ends. Though I do wish there was a bit more on a couple of characters.... So maybe it's a personal cliffhanger and not one that deals with the show at all (lol)
If you're looking for a crime/detective show where the good balances the evil, the comedy balances the scary, and so on then this show may be for you... I also think this would be a good show for avid detective fans or for a Japanese drama beginner. I really hope more people watch this show... this gem was not at all what I expected it to be, I really enjoyed it!
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Exciting "New" Sherlock
The plot line follows the origin story(ies) of Sherlock Holmes, however, with a few tweaks and changes, this show is something completely new... yet familiar.The story does have the comforting (?) and typical feel of Japanese detective shows; but when you throw in the "eccentric Sherlock and his witty sidekick (friend?)" then you get a completely different drama. Combined with the technology, thrills, suspense, and mystery that a Japanese police/detective/crime drama already has plus the Sherlock story itself seems to make this drama quite interesting; something new, yet something old and familiar. Which is why I think it's a "comforting" show. To say it's a predictable show is an overstatement, the feeling of it is but the story itself is something brand new!
I like how they did not dwell on the "major evils" throughout the show, nor did they build up to a big bang finale. Towards the end, the show created the "major evils" one step at a time; sometimes a line, sometimes a person, sometimes an entire criminal plan, etc...
The cast selected made this show what it is, I believe. Dean Fujioka was the perfect choice for Sherlock; though I can think of a few others who I would like to see in a few of the same roles, but it would just be my personal preference(s) based on what I've seen of their acting and because I've seen the entirety of this drama.; so it would sort of be like me superimposing a role from one show in to/on to this show. Which wouldn't be too interesting, but it wouldn't be too bad, either. So I think the cast was chosen with that in mind; something like "pick a couple of A-list actors then fill out the roles with B and C list", sort of thing. The entire cast had me completely mesmerized right up until the end! Their skilled talent full of respect and genuine humanity is what made this show such a success!
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Dramatic DNA Chase!
From the beginning this show interested me because of Yasuda Ken and Tanaka Kei, both of whom I am a very big fan of, so I knew that this show was going to be something special. With each case, the DNA never lies... Or does it?Each case is scientifically and genetically tricky; there were so many twists and turns I felt like Alice in Wonderland a couple of times. Sometimes the science was hard to follow, but all in all the collaborative police work met the DNA in the middle and each case was solved with an (typical to Japanese Police Dramas) episode flash back of what had happened so far. Without the cheesy "I've figured out the culprit!" lines, though.
Each story was so different, yet the ending fell in to place spectacularly as if it was a beautiful puzzle. I could never guess who the culprit was, especially toward the end; and I feel like the last couple of episodes really amped up the theatrics and suspense! This is a thrilling show of epic mystery; with both good humor and dark moments, it is definitely one of my favorite shows! Especially since they filmed and aired this during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had to be extremely exhausting and difficult for the cast and staff to not only work, but do so safely!
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Genius Mystery With Fun Adventure
This story is reminiscent of a couple of dramas I've seen before and when you add in the humor it's almost as if this two-episode special is a parody of those two other shows. Which is what makes this quite enthralling to watch, along with the wonderful cast!I think Kitamura Takumi was the perfect choice for the main character of this story. The way he responds or reacts to a character, or a few words is one of the funniest things I've seen in a while, yet still remaining subtle. Nothing he did was exaggerated or too over the top or goofy. It wasn't a "smart funny" that a lot of people probably wouldn't understand either.
I think the supporting cast was fantastic as well! Each one worked well with the other and the support for the follow throughs and the story in general was spectacular to watch! I wish there were more episodes to watch because the continuation would be something amazing! I would love to watch the cast solve even more crimes!
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Pandora no Kajitsu: Kagaku Hanzai Sosa File Season 2
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Enthralling Science
This second season is way more intense than I believed or knew going in to the series as a whole. If you're squeamish or no good with horror or scary things or blood, then please do not watch this series.... but even still it is one fantastic show!The show focuses on understanding science and the unknown as it's main plot line but the relationships behind the scenes of each case are really what seem to carry the show through one episode to the next to the finale. The belief, respect, and bond that each character and actor/actress has formed between the cast, staff, directors and writers, and even within themselves is amazing to watch grow from season one episode one until the finale of season two!
Again, if you're not good with horror or blood then please do not watch this. But the story is something else! There are remnants of other dramas within this story but it is definitely in a superb category of it's own!
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Incredible Science and Dramatics
The entirety of this show is something magical, something I have never seen from a drama before! Granted the story and plot lines are slightly typical and towards the end a bit predictable, but this show is completely and utterly fantastic and perfect on its own!The story itself is something I have never seen before; the action, the dramatics, the mystery! It has been years since I have seen a show this detailed, researched, specific, heartfelt, and spectacular! The emotion, respect, skill, and dedication the actors/actresses, director(s), writer(s), and staffs is so visible and honest throughout the show that its almost tangible through the screen.
The suspense and mystery is quite thrilling; I never could guess what was happening and the truth of what did happen was so extraordinary that I had goosebumps while watching!
If you like a good mystery, enjoy a good thrill, or like to solve detective shows as they air then please watch this show!
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Incredibly Amazing
"Zettai Reido" is one of my favorite series for multiple reasons: the cast, the relationships, the action, the talent and skill, the writing/script, the drama, the story and plot lines, and so much more!The epic action and drama within the storytelling of this series is fantastic! It flows perfectly from season one to the special episode to the last episode of the last season. The amount of talent, skill, respect, and genuine love for this series and their character by every actor/actress within this series is tangible and equally as epic!
To watch the characters as they grow throughout the series, from season 1 to season 5, or just at season 5 alone, is really extraordinary! Though I do recommend starting from season 1 before starting season 5! If you like a lot of romance then I think you're only going to get a little bit; but the relationship between friends and coworkers within this series is strong and something I really like within the entire show.
Season 5 is full of drama and thrills, beginnings and endings, mystery and suspense, epic fighting and talents. I do think it can be a little dark and scary at certain points, but nothing as terrifying as to give someone nightmares! This show is a fantastic and extraordinary story if you are just beginning or a long time fan of Japanese dramas, by themselves or as cop/detective shows!
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Fantastic Season
This show tells a wonderful, funny, heartwarming, unique, mysterious, bittersweet, talented, thrilling, and genuine story about honesty, humanity, and relationships with others and with oneself.Each case brought the story and cast of wonderful characters together as a team of more than just co-workers; the respect and rapport between each person was almost tangible and made them seem like family. It was great having an episode showcasing each person's strong points that also showed the strong points of how "Zero Gakkari" works together.
The "main" storyline was somewhat the same as the other seasons within this series (1-4) but it doesn't make the show seem boring at all! If anything it seems to tie all the seasons together. Not once did I feel lost within this show, even though there was a couple backlash scenes.
I laughed, cried, and worried with the cast of Zero Gakkari and hope more people will enjoy it too!
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Even though I said this show is "one-of-a-kind", I have to say that seems to be about 50/50 true. The more I watch the more I can sort of tell that some episode's stories are familiar and some are brand new story's. There were similarities to other stories, but there were also similarities to a few shows as a whole, and there were brand new moments within the series in its entirety. Not one episode, minute, or second is not worth watching or in any way disappointing!
The title and one of the characters is hilarious alone, and partly my reason alone for watching; I don't want to spoil it but a hint for it would be "it's a language thing". If I'm being honest, too, this show definitely has some "Hero", the drama starring Kimura Takuya, vibes. While some of the humor was a fall for me, it was pretty hilarious how the creators, writers, directors, and cast brought forward the comedy and laughter within and from each episode. Another hint for this would be "dog".
The actors/actresses were very talented! The actress for Mizuki, Murasaki Maaya was very talented and a real joy to watch as her character grew throughout the show, her story really created a nice high point for the show. But then again, I really liked episode six; this show definitely has a few tear-jerker episodes, so keep the tissue box handy. The guest cast for each episode was full of surprises and I was thrilled to see who would be joining the cast for each episode! This is going to sound hypocritical but I don't look at the guest list as much as I look at the main character and/or supporting character cast lists. I'm more likely to watch a drama or movie with actors and/or actresses I'm familiar with, which I think is true for many viewers, than I am a cast of unknowns; however, if I like the synopsis and the supporting (and sometimes even the guest cast) then I'll watch the show or movie.
The story of this show was very well told. Each episode was full of stories told from a very genuine and honest human viewpoint. Extremely relatable and full of heart, warmth, and laughter; each episode was told with strength of character and genuine raw, real humanity! Absolutely a show to be watched and treasured!
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I'm not sure if that last sentence came out correctly. Although if you watch the show, I'm sure it will make even the smallest bit of sense. At least I hope it will. Watching a show based on the cast itself is sort of like reading a book based off the cover alone; a little biased, unrealistic, and slightly rude to the creator/director/actor/writer/etc... However, if you have a favorite author/actor/director, then why not go ahead and follow your favorites! Which is what I've done with this show!
The story for this show was amazingly detailed, yet completely easy to understand! It sort of reminded me of "Mr. Brain" with Kimura Takuya, to be honest. The story itself is like this: mystery, thriller, suspense, adventure, comedy, medical, police, government, science, health, and relationships. Though if you're looking for romance, I'm not sure this story is right for you; though there are hints of romance throughout.
The story itself is a unique tale that I have not seen before. Granted the base of a police/government/political/medical drama is there, it seems to hide just along the outskirts of the story's true base. Watching Himokura, Takaie, Makino, and the rest of the Cabinet Secretariat office (where Makino works with Mitsuishi Ken) tackle, or maybe "attack" would be a better choice here, each illness and/or parasite case head on without hesitation as they gather information, do experiments, and face the "bad guy" in each case is truly amazing. I'm not sure if the characters they play are extremely brave or ridiculously stupid on some level. Though, it is true that Himokura has no real affection for humans or want to interact with them, it is interesting to watch him widen his inner circle; and throughout the show it's very visible how "real" and "honest" the writer(s), director, and cast made it seem as Yamashita (aka Himokura) did this on his own time within his own way.
Considering Covid-19 times right now, I think it is easier to sympathize with the characters as they go through their illnesses, especially toward the end; and I have to say that I had 50% of the show figured out and had 50% no idea how this story was going to end! This show is most definitely worth checking out; it's thrilling adventures, the cast, and the story... This show is one of a kind amazing!
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