I couldn't pull my eyes away from the characters that put so much awe, feeling, perfection, and wonderful storytelling into such intricate and thrilling plots. I think the story for each episode, leading up to the finale for each season, is really well written and definitely not like anything else I've seen in a long time (if ever) but I do believe the odd officers of "zero gakari" make this series worth watching! The mutual respect for each other and all of their hard work can be seen throughout the entire show.
This show is a whirlwind of suspense! I never saw the end coming, but then again, the story was something I've never seen done before either. I really wish the last two episodes were subbed, so I could understand a bit more; but for fans of this series, if you really pay attention, it isn't that hard to tell what's going on enough to get the gist of the situation up until the very last moment.
This series seems to be a bit underrated and I can understand why, too. But this show definitely will not disappoint!
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This was a wonderfully sweet story that had me laughing out loud with every episode! It was relatable and very genuine, but also a one of a kind story with a fantastic cast that literally had me holding my breath until the very last second of the very last episode. How it ended was really wonderful, but it ended way too soon! I know there is a 2016 version, but I haven't found that anywhere to watch yet, but I think this series could definitely do well with a few more episodes or even a special! This is definitely a show that will have you "catching all the feels"... but I absolutely recommend this fantastic series! Was this review helpful to you?
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Genius at Work
The emotional rollercoaster this show has sent me on was not only thrilling and mysterious, but extremely dramatic, epic, intense, and bittersweet. Never in my wildest assumptions did I figure out the truth behind the curiosities throughout this story!The "genius" suspected of murder and the avenging brother are both quite powerful; their dedication, passion, ingenuity, genuine raw honesty, emotions on their sleeves, and intense battles were quite relatable. The story's beginning until the end is smooth, full of twists and turns, impactful mystery, and bittersweet dramatics. Never would I have assumed the ending, though at some points it was predictable, too. A few things were a little annoying or too creepy for me (personally because i'm a complete scaredy-cat), and some were a little confusing, but overall, nothing was too hard to understand and within a few minutes things were usually described or defined. This is a story about geniuses, after all!
I do wish there were a few more things explained, like from episode 7 or between a couple of characters, otherwise everything seemed to be connected nicely from beginning to end. A couple of characters were really surprising! I never imagined the raw, genuine emotion and strength that came from a few cast members, especially two members of "team Fujiki" -- and that's all I'll say or hint about there!
The story isn't really original, in the aspect that someone loses someone and the other someone wants revenge. However, that's where the known ends and the unknown begins; it was really wonderful to watch each character cross Fujiki Keisuke's path, friend or foe or ally or whoever. To see the people who helped him and vice versa as well as they did, and as often as they did was amazing! I can guarantee that I've never seen something like that in any type of story (movie, tv show, or drama) before; usually there are some "conditions" for someone to help someone else, or consequences to the person needing help or the person giving help. It wasn't like they blindly followed Fujiki or helped him because they owed him, but it seemed like they truly believed in him as a person before they even knew who he was or what he was "up to".
The story was full of rollercoaster twist and turns, I've never been so invested in a show or in a cast before. I wish I knew more about a few characters, and I can't believe what happened to a couple of others! This show is one in a million, the production was really superb and something I wish I could see more of. I already knew a few in the cast were amazing actors/actresses, but in this story I saw a side to them that I've never seen them play before and it was not only super interesting, but sometimes it was sad and creepy and heartbreaking and filled me with pride and made me angry or knocked the breath right out of me. The story was intense right from the beginning of episode one, I could never guess what was going to happen next and I never could begin to guess the ending! This story needs to be seen by more people and I feel like I need a special or movie to conclude some minor questions I (personally) have!
Each actor and actress seemed to be swallowed whole by their character and the show itself seemed to mesh together like a long running movie. I completely forgot the characters were just that.... characters! Forgetting who was playing who as I continued to watch the show, I believed the roles they played so absolutely! In all honesty, it made me want to avoid Yasuda Ken so badly and I felt so awful for Kiriyama Akito. I really hope this story gains more popularity, it is truly one in a million!
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Oretachi wa Abunakunai ~ Cool ni Saboru Keijitachi
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Danger-less Yet Still Dangerous
I'm not sure if this is supposed to be a parody of police/detective/crime dramas or if the writers, directors, staff, creators, actors, and actresses were completely serious in the making of this story. But it is one of my most absolute favorite shows, has a fantastic cast list, and a very unique and talent filled story that I've enjoyed from beginning to end!The partner team of Suzuki Nobuyuki (Takano Shin) and Sano Hayato (Yonaka Wataru) was perfect! I felt like I was watching a veteran team of detectives at work; each played to their partners strengths and helped to cover or better their weaknesses. It was almost as if there was mind reading involved. Though, not to be outdone, the partner team of Yano Masato (Tsukiga Nashio) and Ino Hiroki (Ikiri Tatsumi) was utterly amazing; their hard work, talents, and chemistry was really intense and fantastic to watch! I'm assuming most people would see the two partner teams as trying to compete to be better than the other(s), and while that does seem apparent for a couple episodes, it also doesn't really seem likely; more so, it seems, that they work together to better the other... even if Tsukiga-san doesn't realize it!
So, while there is no animosity nor huge political issue, this show still did not disappoint! The synopsis and trailer really do help to tell some of the story, neither really tells all of the story. In their own way, both Yonaka-san and Takano-san are hardworking detectives, yet it was almost like watching a character's inner monologue as they were deciding which way to take their careers and how to handle their futures. I was really impressed with how strong, mentally and physically they all worked together throughout this story.
There didn't really seem to be an actual story or plotline throughout, but when I saw the last few episodes, I was completely surprised! There was so much going on that I wished there was more to see; this show is the definition of a cliffhanger. I wish there was more, the story seemed to end while leaving a few unanswered questions, and it felt like there was more that was supposed to be told. Each part of the story really did build up a wonderful foundation; it was really interesting to watch how each case unfolded, with their consequences and actions, but mostly how the two teams of Takano-san and Tsukiga-san worked separately and together at once.
If you're looking for a show that will surpass expectations while still being something of a hidden gem, with hilarity and surprises and twists and endings that no one will ever see coming, while also being one of the best detective/crime shows you'll watch this year then this is definitely a show you should worth checking out!
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Best Legal Team!
It has been a long time since I've seen such a fantastic, strong team within the legal field! The last few legal drama's I've watched (including police/detective) were fascinating as well but, including this show, I've only seen 3 legal dramas focusing on the courtroom (i think it's 3). This story was intense, relatable, genuine, and one of the best I have seen all year... and its only October!The teamwork between Arimura Kasumi, Nakamura Tomoya, and Akaso Eiji was wonderful to watch; it was as if they had been partners within the business for a long time! Each story had so many twists and turns, I'm glad the legal terms weren't as confusing as I thought they would be because I would have been lost. I never once predicted how a case would end, and the last few episodes had me on the edge of my seat with the wind knocked out of me!
The cases for this show were very unique, I don't remember seeing anything like them before unless it was a specific case focused on throughout the whole drama/movie/special. There were some familiar feelings, but not too strong that I felt like I was watching more episodes of a show/movie/special I had already watched. Mostly, I think, the familiar was with a scene or two that reminded me of another show in its entirety, or a specific moment in a case that reminded me of a certain actor/actress.
The music was really nice. Very calm, clean, and absolutely perfect for setting the tone and mood for either the next moment or the next episode(s). It was also nice to see actors/actresses in roles (good, bad, genius, powerful, weak, etc) that I wasn't used to seeing them as. In America we have the habit of "type casting" actors/actresses in to certain roles for their entire careers, or at least good portions of their careers; so it was nice to see, in Japan, the way these actors/actresses that I am familiar with and follow their careers that they have this strong, raw, beautiful talent of blending in splendidly with their characters and roles during a show/movie/special.
This story was very raw and honest. I could feel the strength of emotion through the screen! It didn't get too dark or overly cheesy with dramatics, which it could have a couple of times so that was surprising! But, please, don't let that assumption persuade you not to watch or that this show is "happy-go-lucky" within the law/legal genre, because that could not be further from the truth. The strength, power, and intensity of this show is insane! A very strong story was brought forth by a very powerful, beautiful, magical story cast, writer(s), directors, and support staff! This show is a powerhouse!
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Enchanting Cinema
Going to the movies always feels like going into a really dramatic daydream for me. Action, heartbreak, suspense, horror, epic drama, the list could go on forever! This story is not at all what I thought it would be, in fact it exceeded my expectations in every way..... and then some!At first I thought this would be about "the movies", then I thought it would be about "the theater", and it was about both (in a way) but in all honesty, this story was so much more than just what you see on its surface. Watching the "behind the scenes" work was truly fascinating, I've never seen any style like this before or anything similar. I know other shows that go in to detail, but this show really went above and beyond to make sure the customers (and viewers) not only understood the process of theaters, movies, and the behind the scenes workings, but the details of each job. Watching such an attention to detail, thrilling, hilarious, heartwarming show was very charming and left me feeling very warm and fuzzy; especially the last episode.
Going to theaters is sort of tricky right now, considering Covid-19 is still out there, but watching this show made me feel like I was a part of something bigger than myself to create this lovely dream world of movies and stories for the customers to enjoy. Each episode really focused well on the hard work it takes to run a business, but also the importance of taking care of the staff so they can take care of the business and the customers; it was really amazing to see how each staff member grew as a person to better understand how to fulfill their job and as a member of a team. There were not a lot of cheesy dramatics, but the reactions of a few of the staff were absolutely real, honest, and genuine. I love seeing a genuine, hard working climb-to-the-top story!
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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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Ichikei’s Crow: The Criminal Court Judges
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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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Valentines Day
True to the original story, this side story helps create a more fuller version of the drama but you don't need to watch this special to understand --- though you do get to relive your love for all the people involved! Which is always wonderful...With a backdrop setting such as "Valentines Day", this side story is one of the cutest I've seen. It's also one of the more ridiculous stories, but that's okay because it really fit the relationship between Taiyou-san and Saku-sensei perfectly! It was nice to see the other villagers have a part in the story, too; it was like they were helping to build a stronger relationship between Taiyou-san and Saku-sensei. I liked that Masora-san made an appearance too, but since the original show focused on her and her relationship with everyone else, it was nice to see that this side story focused on the other two main characters (Saku-sensei and Taiyou-san) since their relationship was really fantastic to watch grow and strengthen within the main story.
Like the main story, I wish this special lasted a little longer. Though people wish that with any good story, too! I kind of wish there was more to this special story --- not just happenings wise --- but it kind of felt like things were cut short toward the end. I wish there was more time with everyone!
This story is one of the sweetest story's I've seen, the original and this special are two of the best stories I've been able to watch this year. I cried, worried, hoped, got angry, and laughed so hard my jaw hurts!
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Entertaining Dramatics
Without skipping much in the way of thrills or epic scenes typical to Japanese police/detective dramas (ie: suspect chases, dramatic buddy/partner pairs, exciting cases) this show is one of the most superb stories. I wish there were more episodes, but I do feel that they left off on a good note with more tabs closed than cliffhangers. This story was dramatic, hilarious, heartfelt, genuine, and very smart.I could see how hard everyone worked (especially since this is during Covid-19) to fulfill their roles. It is hard to wear all of the police gear that they are actually required to, so to see them put it on each day like it was "nothing" or "not that big of a deal" during the summer and Covid, was really something. I think it's very respectable to actual police officers that they cast/writers/staff/director/etc. diligently put in so much hard work for their story to be so accurate, respectable, honest, and relatable.
Some parts of the story were a little predictable, and some parts I kind of got bored with; but those only lasted for a fraction of a second. Its such an even paced show, and the dialogue was really well written. It seemed like everyone was on the same page and were on very good terms while they were working, it's almost tangible within each scene!
If you like the people in this cast line up, even if they only appear for a second or two, then this show is a must watch. They really show off each actors/actresses "best side" when they filmed and created this story. I'm definitely a little sad that its over!
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This story is gut-wrenching in the most beautiful and sincerest way possible. I experienced every emotion within this show: happiness, anger, tears, confusion, worry, heartbreak, gratitude, and even more.Each actor seemed to go through a soul searching moment within each episode not only as the character they were cast for, but as themselves; it was wonderful to see each person delve deep within themselves, their surroundings, their family, their mental and emotional self, their friends, and their humanity to see them come out the other side as a new person. Some parts of it did seem a little "scripted", no pun intended and I know they were originally following a script because this is television, but...! As I watched this story play out, I realized it really could have been made as a movie but the separation between each "main character" is there for you to gather your thoughts and feelings from the previous person's story as a whole. If you just watched this story play out as a movie, I do not think the same feelings or final product would be what it is now.
It is a "human" drama. You won't get anything cheesy or too "lovey-dovey" or something filled with stupid action and dramatics. This story is about overcoming humanity's worst issues: death and the dying, whether they are alone or surrounded by loved ones; in a hospital or home alone. This show is something not to be missed, it is a genuine pleasure to watch life play out and to feel each emotion as it was meant to be: raw, painful, heartbreaking, and crushing. This is a story of humanity; all alone, but still together.
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This is a very sweet, genuine, honest, and so true to life that it hurts type of story! I do realize that three men (Sakama Masakazu, Yamaji Kazutoyo, & Michigami Maribu), however, the more you watch the more you realize that this story (their stories) are not theirs alone and are affected by and affecting the others around them.This is a very open and raw story of how life as we know it works. The ups and downs, the romance and friendships, how the family lives, what is normal for one is not normal for another, and so on, and so on.... In fact, to me at least, it is scary how accurate this story is about life! Though, it's a little different for us viewers; we are very lucky to be able to see life first hand with such humor and genuine talent and respect from such wonderfully skilled actors and actresses (lol).
I believe that this show has something with which anyone and everyone can relate to! Each episode of this story fits so perfectly together that it was as if I was watching someone's honest real-life stories, and in its entirety is so overwhelmingly heartwarming and gut-wrenching with its roller coaster of emotions.
This story told the truth, I feel, about many of the troubles people(s) feel growing as a person, as a friend, as a family member, as a couple, as an employee, and as a human being. This story also had its embellishments, truthfully it did, but it is one that is so true to life as well. It's been a while since I've been so fully captured and entertained by a story!
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Alibi Kuzushi Uketamawarimasu Tokubetsuhen
2 people found this review helpful
Personally, I would have liked to see more of Narita Ryo's character, but that's just my personal opinion; which you'll probably agree with/understand more when you watch the drama first.
The story was wonderful to watch! It was almost as if I was learning from Tokino's Grandfather by watching a video of a teacher's lecture instead of watching a drama's special episode(s). In some spots, the story did feel like it could have been expanded more (I also felt the same about the original drama) or that some information was left out; but maybe it also would have bulked up the show too much, maybe it would have made too much for two episodes.
The show and the special are not to be missed, I think it may be very underrated too because I happened across the show itself by accident! Do not let this series slip past you; it is amazing!
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Let me start by saying that while this drama was made among some bad rumors and reports of one of the main actors, that it doesn't make this drama any less interesting to watch, so please do not let your opinions or the reports cloud your view while watching!I did like seeing a bit of role reversal in this show, it was refreshing to watch something a little different within the typical dramas/shows/movies/etc... of the detective, crime, mystery, investigation, and police genre. The more I watched this role reversal acting, the more intriguing the story becomes.
The stories seemed to follow the basic outline for the typical detective/crime stories, however, the script itself seemed to have a completely different basis. This show really is wonderful, even though there are only three episodes, and I do believe that it has the potential to be something; sadly, however, I'm not sure if anyone will take the chance on this show to remake it into what it could be.
It was fun to watch each story unfold from beginning to end with their different crimes and different stories! This is a good story to watch if you're in a slump, don't know what to watch next, or are just starting out watching Japanese or detective/crime/mystery dramas. Not once could I identify the suspect, though that could just be my stupidity! (lol)
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