4
10
1
2
need a season 2
Overall: they had a unique and fascinating dynamic. Aired on GagaOOLala https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/8142/the-servant-prince-2026-e01 (not available in Japan)
Content Warnings: dub con kissing, past death, past child emotional abuse
What I Liked
- easy to understand premise
- unique dynamic
- even though a character had difficulties with the other character's changes, he didn't manipulate him or stop him
- caring moments
- supportive coworkers
Room For Improvement
- voice over exposition dumps
- cliche of fever after sex
- too many flashbacks
- hideous hair/wig
Raving about Takaaki
Takaaki is my favorite obsessed (near unhinged) character in a m/m romance. He compared himself to Naoya's dad how when they don't get what they want they get anxious (in the dad's case replace anxious with abusive). Naoya correctly pointed out that Takaaki was nothing like his father. The main differences were that Takaaki was very self-aware of his obsession and second that he wanted Naoya to be happy. Takaaki didn't manipulate other people, the situation or Naoya to get what he wanted although it felt like the urge was definitely there.
Additionally, I find how their relationship changes from Naoya relying completely on Takaaki to him wanting to rely on himself to wanting the freedom to do what he wants including supporting Takaaki. It was fascinating to watch how Takaaki dealt with these changes and wrestled with parts of himself. His brain almost short circuits multiple times, yet he kept up with the changes.
Naoya on his part, saw when Takaaki felt insecure in their relationship and quickly reassures him verbally and/or physically. Naoya went going on a journey and fully intended for Takaaki to be with him by his side. Takaaki was not going to clip Naoya's wings because he wanted him to soar. A relationship that I thought from the title and beginning would have a major power imbalance turned into a very healthy, balanced relationship. This series is a rare example of showing how characters can change, their relationship can change, yet still be a relationship that I root for and think will last a lifetime with both characters compatible and happy.
Content Warnings: dub con kissing, past death, past child emotional abuse
What I Liked
- easy to understand premise
- unique dynamic
- even though a character had difficulties with the other character's changes, he didn't manipulate him or stop him
- caring moments
- supportive coworkers
Room For Improvement
- voice over exposition dumps
- cliche of fever after sex
- too many flashbacks
- hideous hair/wig
Raving about Takaaki
Takaaki is my favorite obsessed (near unhinged) character in a m/m romance. He compared himself to Naoya's dad how when they don't get what they want they get anxious (in the dad's case replace anxious with abusive). Naoya correctly pointed out that Takaaki was nothing like his father. The main differences were that Takaaki was very self-aware of his obsession and second that he wanted Naoya to be happy. Takaaki didn't manipulate other people, the situation or Naoya to get what he wanted although it felt like the urge was definitely there.
Additionally, I find how their relationship changes from Naoya relying completely on Takaaki to him wanting to rely on himself to wanting the freedom to do what he wants including supporting Takaaki. It was fascinating to watch how Takaaki dealt with these changes and wrestled with parts of himself. His brain almost short circuits multiple times, yet he kept up with the changes.
Naoya on his part, saw when Takaaki felt insecure in their relationship and quickly reassures him verbally and/or physically. Naoya went going on a journey and fully intended for Takaaki to be with him by his side. Takaaki was not going to clip Naoya's wings because he wanted him to soar. A relationship that I thought from the title and beginning would have a major power imbalance turned into a very healthy, balanced relationship. This series is a rare example of showing how characters can change, their relationship can change, yet still be a relationship that I root for and think will last a lifetime with both characters compatible and happy.
Was this review helpful to you?
