sayratial

Note: This is just my opinion!

Futtara Doshaburi is an emotionally charged drama that explores the complexities of love, intimacy, and communication. While the story is centered on romantic relationships, it delves into deeper themes of personal struggles, unspoken feelings, and the consequences of avoiding difficult conversations. The series does a commendable job of presenting flawed, human characters who make mistakes, forcing the audience to reflect on their choices and motivations.

▫️Story and Characters

The drama follows four key characters:
Hagi and Kaori, a couple facing intimacy issues, with Kaori pulling away from physical affection and Hagi struggling with his unmet desires.

Sei and Fuji, two roommates entangled in an emotionally complicated relationship, where Sei harbors feelings for Fuji, but Fuji refuses to engage in a physical bond.

One of the most polarizing aspects of the show is the way it handles cheating. Some may argue that the male leads had a “right” to cheat because of their frustrations, but that perspective ignores the real issue—a lack of communication. Kaori and Hagi both failed to express their emotions fully, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. However, blaming only Kaori for the breakdown in their relationship is unfair. Hagi had every opportunity to voice his feelings before resorting to betrayal.

Kaori, in particular, is an interesting character. While some have vilified her for her emotional distance, she is clearly not a villain. She is someone struggling with her own uncertainties and fears, unable to express them properly. The show hints at the possibility of her being on the asexual spectrum, as she acknowledges her love for Hagi but recoils at the thought of intimacy. Her inner turmoil is painful and realistic, making her one of the most complex characters in the drama.

Fuji, on the other hand, is much harder to sympathize with. His actions feel more manipulative, and unlike Kaori, he doesn’t show remorse in the same way. That being said, despite hating him, I found him to be an incredibly interesting character. I couldn’t read his mind at all—his thoughts and motivations remained a mystery throughout the show, making him unpredictable and, in a way, compelling. His presence added an element of tension that kept me engaged, even as I despised his decisions.

▫️Cinematography and Direction

One of the highlights of Futtara Doshaburi is its cinematography. The visuals are beautifully composed, using lighting and framing to enhance the emotional weight of each scene. The frequent use of rain not only aligns with the title but also serves as a powerful metaphor for the turmoil and cleansing that comes with heartbreak and growth. The color palette is often muted, emphasizing the loneliness and emotional distance between the characters, making the rare moments of warmth and connection stand out even more.

▫️The Breakup and Its Impact

Despite the cheating, the show handles the eventual breakup in a mature and realistic way. Instead of an over-the-top dramatic fallout, the characters finally communicate honestly. The breakup was painful but necessary, showing that sometimes, relationships end not because of a lack of love, but because of unresolved personal struggles. The way the show portrays this difficult yet necessary conclusion is commendable.

▫️Final Thoughts
This is not a drama that offers easy answers. It presents deeply flawed characters and forces the audience to sit with their discomfort. While it is frustrating to watch characters make poor choices, it is also refreshing to see a drama that does not romanticize toxic behavior or paint a single character as entirely right or wrong.

For those looking for a thought-provoking drama with stunning cinematography and well-executed emotional depth, FuttaraDoshaburi is definitely worth watching. However, if you prefer clear-cut heroes and villains, this show might leave you feeling conflicted.
Either way, it’s a drama that sparks conversation—and that in itself is a mark of strong storytelling.