Erin

Intense Mystifying Thrills

This story is not at all what I thought it would be! I've never seen such thrilling dramatics in my life, except for maybe in a couple of movies. This show had such a fantastically unique story that I had never seen before except maybe in manga or anime; in fact, this story is like an anime or manga come to life, which I'm sure a commenter or reviewer already said (lol). IF you're looking for something different with intense story telling then try this show!


At the beginning, I wasn't sure about the main character's, they seemed like a mish-mash of people from different "acting ranks" (is that a thing?) brought together to somehow hype up the show. However, the more I watched, the more each actor and actress seemed to fit their role(s) perfectly, like beautiful pieces of a puzzle. For a story like this with its curious plot, a "mish-mash" of people involved is quite really the best reasoning. People who are brought together by something bigger than themselves to work together as a team, drawing from everyone's strengths and filling in where there are weaknesses.


The music for the ending really threw me, at first it didn't really fit within the first few episodes, and it kind of annoyed me at times so I skipped it. Though, as the show went on, and I kept watching all the way to the end (to see if the end credits had secrets lol) the song grew on me, and it even made me feel like I had a hitch in my throat; like I was on the edge of a cliff waiting for something to happen with full dramatics... which is usually did in the next episode. The music for this show was spectacular in helping to create such an amazing universe for this story.


This story is intense, very interesting, and leaves the viewer wanting more! The backstory could have been filled in more for a few characters, but I also like the way they left it blank; as if leaving it to the viewers imagination. But it also makes me wonder if this show was meant to have longer episodes, a special, or even a second season. Some things seemed left to the imagination, while others seemed either forgotten or meant to create a type of bridge to another episode/special/season two. I would love to see more if that is a possibility, of course! However, the sword fighting in this show was so amazingly talented, you could see just how respectful and cautious each person was with the scabbards (sheaths?) and the swords, as well. That had to have been a lot of hard work that pushed the body(bodies) to their limits.


The theme of this show is superb, very interesting and great at catching the viewers attention. The synopsis is a great tantalizing temptation, then you throw in the trailer, too.... and I was hooked from episode one!

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Never Underestimate the Fly on the Wall!

I have never been so terrified of a secretary in all my life. First of all, these women are the epitome of "strength" and I can see why they are all so popular, yet go unnoticed. It's not like they do so purposefully, but that people usually take them for granted so they just don't seem to give them any attention, let alone respect, nor the time of day... Like they don't even exist! Which is just perfect for the seven (or is it 8?..... maybe 9?) "someone who isn't great enough to be identified" persons.


First of all, I was unsure of a couple of casted individuals, but that was dispelled right away! The more you watch, the more you realize that their "invisibility" is actually perfect. Through their hard work, they are all recognized at work but they are also taken for granted and treated as nothing more than servants or a pawn. As each story builds the pressure, I found myself waiting with extreme anticipation on the edge of my seat! The cases were different, extremely different, than anything I've seen before; granted there are a few moments of "ah this is typical for a Japanese police/detective/crime drama", but they go by in a flash! This story really does pride itself on its remarkable originality!


The climax was spread between multiple episodes, which sort of felt dragged out on purpose but really the more I watched the more the building blocks of a fantastic story were being created. I never imagined the outcome, though it was sort of expected in some places; even so, I could never predict what actually happened! The twists and turns within this case seriously threw me for a loop more than once. The music really helped to encourage the cliffhangers and empower the epic scenes. A few times, I cried way too much; a couple of episodes, too, I felt like all the air was sucked out of me.


This show is full of life. Hard fought, grateful, appreciative, raw, genuine, honest, respected, happy, sad, mad, unexpected life!

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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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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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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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I began this drama because of the cast and the story synopsis, even though they say "don't judge a book by its cover" (lol) and I have to say that I didn't really have high hopes or high expectations for this drama going in, but it absolutely did not disappoint! This charming, enchanting, one-of-a-kind story is absolutely worth watching!

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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If I'm being completely honest then I have to say that I began watching this drama because of the cast! While I do realize that this is a pretty shallow and a little unreasonable reason to watch a show, I have to say that it definitely wasn't a bad decision. The show employed a very strong cast, in both talent and personality as well as strong characteristics for themselves and their characters.

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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