This review may contain spoilers
A drama that examines what it takes to be happy in life
まげる (mageru) means to bend or to yield. Saki's inflexibility in living her life only by her rules makes her magerarenai and a very uncomfortable person to be around.
Through the 10 episodes we however see how Saki's unbending and uncompromising approach to life inspires Kou-chan and Riko,both of whom are taking the easy way in life, to take a stand and make some tough choices.
The drama keeps the tone realistic and tackles different arcs without sugarcoating issues. Through each character's story the drama tells us to believe in ourself and keep going even if it gets tough. To not give up dreams and take action if we are not happy - even if it means making life inconvenient. It asks us to not avoid problems because its easier but to stick to ones beliefs, remaining true to overselves despite societal pressures while keep one's focus on reaching set goals.
As someone who is similarly stuck in life, the drama's messages resonated with me and I only hope that I can take some of Saki's determination and unyielding resolve to move forward in my life.
Performances
No doubt Miho Kanno does a fantastic job in bringing alive a somewhat annoying character without being irritating. We see her vulnerability, her wavering (from her ideals) and her despair but also her strength in raising above the tough moments and to persist in her dreams.
The other 2 main characters too are well etched and well delivered - Tanihara Shosuke as Aida Kouki the flighty but kind hearted guy in love with Saki and Naitou Hiromi as Hasumi Riko, Saki's high school mate who uses lies to smooth her way and prefers to skimp out on hard work.
The plotting is even and I didn't find it dragging at any point. Don't expect any romance - its barely there and I was a bit sad about how it went but it did made sense on the whole
Warmly recommended for any one looking for a drama tackling deeper issues in life.
Through the 10 episodes we however see how Saki's unbending and uncompromising approach to life inspires Kou-chan and Riko,both of whom are taking the easy way in life, to take a stand and make some tough choices.
The drama keeps the tone realistic and tackles different arcs without sugarcoating issues. Through each character's story the drama tells us to believe in ourself and keep going even if it gets tough. To not give up dreams and take action if we are not happy - even if it means making life inconvenient. It asks us to not avoid problems because its easier but to stick to ones beliefs, remaining true to overselves despite societal pressures while keep one's focus on reaching set goals.
As someone who is similarly stuck in life, the drama's messages resonated with me and I only hope that I can take some of Saki's determination and unyielding resolve to move forward in my life.
Performances
No doubt Miho Kanno does a fantastic job in bringing alive a somewhat annoying character without being irritating. We see her vulnerability, her wavering (from her ideals) and her despair but also her strength in raising above the tough moments and to persist in her dreams.
The other 2 main characters too are well etched and well delivered - Tanihara Shosuke as Aida Kouki the flighty but kind hearted guy in love with Saki and Naitou Hiromi as Hasumi Riko, Saki's high school mate who uses lies to smooth her way and prefers to skimp out on hard work.
The plotting is even and I didn't find it dragging at any point. Don't expect any romance - its barely there and I was a bit sad about how it went but it did made sense on the whole
Warmly recommended for any one looking for a drama tackling deeper issues in life.
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