Hanzawa Naoki半沢直樹– Release July 2013

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Japan Drama Story:
Hanzawa Naoki (Sakai Masato) 堺雅人 joins Tokyo Chuo Bank and determine to climb to the top position of the banking industry. His goal is to find the banker who causes the death of his father indirectly by denying loan to help overcome his father’s factory financial crisis. He also vows to change the banking system in order to help factories or companies which are facing financial crisis over come and survive challenges. In order to achieve his goals, being a top elite employee is just not enough. Especially when he is working in banking industry, one single mistake is enough to remove him from the front line elite work force.

After working in the bank for several years, Hanzawa Naoki (Sakai Masato) 堺雅人 manage to become division head at Osaka Nishi branch. This is where he starts to face real challenge or career threatening situation from his manager. He was forced by the branch manager to grant an unsecured loan to a factory which later ends up bankrupt. In order to continue his career as a banker, he must find a way to recover the money loaned regardless of whose fault it is. This is the first case he encounter which exposes the unethical deal within banking industry.

Feelings and comments:
The first thing that comes in mind after watching the drama for few minutes is the work passion and the determination to solve problems. It just seems like Hanzawa Naoki is working day and night without getting any rest. Although the biggest satisfactory is watching Hanzawa Naoki out beat his boss with his outstanding working ability and intelligent, it is also very comforting to watch Hanzawa Naoki help his customers or clients restructuring their business or company. I suppose many employees dream of becoming just like Hanzawa Naoki but in reality boss usually is the winner. Going against boss or employer usually ends up badly. The truth is you won’t be able to perform well and advance in the company if the boss does not like you. Even if you are just being professional in your work, you still won’t get the opportunity. The best is just change job or switch to other company.

In this drama series, Hanzawa Naoki successfully beaten two bosses and he did it with the help of his friends and colleagues. Even his wife contributes a lot in his success. In other words, he is not alone in his path to success and he chooses to believe in the people he work with, even when one of his friends betrays him.

Although Hanzawa Naoki (Sakai Masato) 堺雅人 is the main character which most viewers are focusing on, his opponent such as Asano Tadasu, Kurosaki Shunichi and Ohwada Akira plays a big role in making this drama successful. Their arguments and speeches make up the best part of this drama.

Things that caught my eyes:
No doubt the facial impressions of several actors are impressive. You might even feel the heat or flame when they are having arguments. “An eye for an eye.” That’s the quote Hanzawa Naoki半沢直樹 often uses when he speaks of his enemy or the person who framed him. And it’s not just an eye that he is trying to get back, but 10 times or 100 times of repay. The determination, anger, patient, intelligent and faith are well express as Hanzawa Naoki半沢直樹 deals with his opponents.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This is a typical drama about an employee who goes against corrupted boss and win. Especially if you are an employee or salary man who dislikes your boss or has opinions about the way your boss run things, this drama really can brighten your day. I suppose this is the reason why this drama receives a high viewing rate in Japan.

Purchase:
TV series, Original Soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Theme of Hanzawa Naoki ~Main Title~ by Hattori Takayuki

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Natsu no Koi wa Nijiiro ni Kagayaku 夏の恋は虹色に輝く– Release July 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Kusunoki Taiga (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 is the second child of a famous actor in Japan. His dream since a child is to become a famous actor just like his father. Right after graduated from college, he begins his acting career with the help of his father. Although he managed to appear in variety shows but he never did landed in any leading role neither in drama nor movie. While spending most of his free time skydiving, he met a girl name Kitamura Shiori (Takeuchi Yuko) 竹内結子, a beautiful cheerful girl who captures his heart instantly.
Feelings and comments:
This is another romantic drama with lots of comedy within. Honestly this is the type of drama I like best. It’s really heart comforting with jokes all around. The story is very simple but the way that it kept the profile and details of each character until the very last minute triggers everybody’s curiosity. I just get a feeling that says “If you want to know more about this character, then stay tune.” But the biggest catch in this drama is Kitamura Shiori (Takeuchi Yuko) 竹内結子. There isn’t much information reveal in the first episode but her action, personality and the child did create enough curiosity to capture viewers’ interest. Once you continue to watch the drama, the interaction between Kusunoki Taiga (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 and Kitamura Shiori (Takeuchi Yuko) 竹内結子 will become the main entertainment.

Things that caught my eyes:
The famous quote which Kusunoki Taiga (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤’ s father speaks a lot kept my mind busy for some time. The quote is about life and I like the last couple of words “Happy, Happy”.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. A simple love story about a young man struggling to build his acting career meets a cheerful girl who is a loyal fan of his father. The story is simple but it’s the chemistry between the couple forms the best scene in this drama.

Purchase:
2010 Japanese Drama : Natsu No Koi Wa Nijiiro Ni Kagayaku w/ English Subtitle, NATSU NO KOI WA NIJIIRO NI KAGAYAKU OST,Original Soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Love Rainbow by Arashi

Drama Insert Song: Please Stay With Me by YUI

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Gold – Release July 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 is a successful career woman who owns businesses involves sports and beautician. She is also a well known icon who often appears on mass media influencing the life style of many people. Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 has four children and three of them have the athletic ability to win gold medal in Olympic. The father of the children is a wrestling gold medalist winner but has been staying separated from the family. The children have inherited the ability of a gold medalist champion and Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 has intended to raise them as champions. It has been the intention or mission of Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 to fulfill the dream of her brother to reach for gold but who died in an accident. She has trained and prepared her children well as potential gold medalist winner but she has not been successful in playing the role of a mother.

Feelings and comments:
The first impression given from the first episode is enough to convince me to finish the whole series. There are at least 3 of my favorite actors in the drama and each of them has strong personality, characteristic and important role in the drama. The story is not so special or unique but it does create a stage or platform for the actors to perform and shows their strong characteristic.
    This drama really motivates people with lots of information on career building, entrepreneurship, achieving the best and fighting to reach our goals. You’ll get lots of guide from Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 on what it takes to become a successful career woman and the so call mother. Although lots of her methods on managing her family and the role of a mother is a bit extreme and practical but still she faces lots of problems which normal family has. There is an opposite mother figure in the drama which you can compare and see the differences.
    In this drama we can see a strong side of a career woman and a soft side of family mother. That means the main focus of this drama will be on Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希.
Things that caught my eyes:
I suppose the interaction between Secretary Nikura Rika (Nagasawa Masami) 長澤まさみ and Saotome Yuri (Amami Yuki) 天海祐希 is the most interesting and attractive part within this drama. Especially when the Secretary successfully gets to her boss, that’s a relieve feeling.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. The strong talented casts are enough to keep me watching this drama till the end. Although the story of the drama is simple but the interaction between the characters stand out unique.

Purchase:
2010 Japanese Drama : Gold w/ English Subtitle, Original Soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Wildflower by SUPERFLY

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NG Scene:

Mother – Release April 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Suzuhara Nao (Matsuyuki Yasuko) 松雪泰子 works as a temporally elementary school teacher who likes birds watching. She even tries to apply for a job in university that related to bird watching research. One day she met a young female student name Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 who behaves differently from other students. Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 seems to be more mature compare to other students. Suzuhara Nao (Matsuyuki Yasuko) 松雪泰子 also sense that Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 has family problems and was abuse by somebody at home. As there is very least Suzuhara Nao (Matsuyuki Yasuko) 松雪泰子can do legally, she decided to volunteer herself as Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 substitute mother and take her away from Hokkaido to start a new life in Tokyo. Thus they start a journey which changes their entire life.

Feelings and comments:
This drama is about motherhood or to be precise it’s about maternal instincts. Plus this drama emphasize that motherhood has nothing to do with bloodline. A mother love is natural towards any child. This drama is not just about the story between both Suzuhara Nao (Matsuyuki Yasuko) 松雪泰子 and Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 but also people around them. That includes the people and events that they went through along their journey.
My first impression about this drama is sad and cold but as the drama continues, it’s more about thinking positive no matter what situation we are in. Plus a lot of warm and comfortable love from mothers. A good advice from Michiki Reina(Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 the little girl is to think about the things that you like always.

Things that caught my eyes:
The conversation between Suzuhara Nao (Matsuyuki Yasuko) 松雪泰子 and Michiki Reina (Ashida Mana) 芦田愛菜 is really interesting because it shows lots of sensible talk which kids normally won’t do. I suppose that’s the attraction of this drama. There are also lots of beautiful scenes captured in this drama.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. The theme of this drama is about motherhood and maternal instincts. The story is simple but the drama is able to create the atmosphere that brings out the love, especially when there is no bloodline related.

Purchase:
 2010 Japanese Drama : Mother w/ Eng Sub


Drama Theme Song: Nakigao Smile by hinaco

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Wagaya no Rekishiわが家の歴史 – Release April 10

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Japan Drama Story:
This is a drama that tells the story of a family from 1945 to 1964. The family of seven members goes through life as society of Japan changes drastically after the war. The family experienced poor, rich, losses, gain and many other issues. They witness the change of Japan history and famous historical people that appear around them.

Feelings and comments:
The story of this drama is simple as it’s almost like telling the history of Japan and the famous people that appeared during that time. The thing that makes the drama connects with the audiences is they included a normal regular family and tells their simple life story. This gives an impression to everybody that says “My life is just the same during that period of time”. Most important of all the drama has a whole army of top actors for almost all the roles and guest stars. You won’t feel the rush to keep on watching the drama and tries to finish in one shot. Instead you’ll feel a comfortable and relaxing sense of calm when watching the drama. Although life is not easy and most of the time it doesn’t goes as what we plan, but still it’s full of surprises and excitement. I suppose the best theme to describe this drama is “Don’t worry and be happy, eventually things will be fine.”

Things that caught my eyes:
The famous historical people guest star by popular actors is the most interesting parts in this drama. The family seems to meet all the Japan historical people during that period of time who soon to be famous. My favorite part of the drama is when they try to make the rice ball using the bowl without touching the rice. 

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This is a warm and comfortable drama suitable for all family members. It’s like listening to grandparents’ story. You’ll find some similarities with the popular US movie “Forest Gump”.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Jidai by Nakashima Miyuki

Japan Drama Preview:

Mioka美丘 – Release July 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Minegishi Mioka (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子 has a rare disease and was told there was no cure for it. It’s a disease where her brain shrinks and there is nothing can be done for current medical knowledge. One day Minegishi Mioka (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子 stands over the fence on top of school building looking at the view thinking about her disease and the short remaining time she has. She was spotted by Hashimoto Taichi (Hayashi Kento) 林遣都 who rushes to the roof thinking that she might commit suicide. That’s how they first met. They perform a high level self introduction but were soon call down from the roof. It’s a love in first sight. Despite knowing the disease and the cruel reality that Minegishi Mioka (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子only have a year or less to live, they still decided to spend the little time they have together.

Feelings and comments:
If you like this type of romantic Japan drama which the girl pass away at the end of story, you probably like Taiyou no Uta, 1 Litre no Namida and Sekai no Chuushin de, Ai wo Sakebu. Probably the way that couples cherish their limited time together makes these dramas so attractive. Plus people see things differently when told they have not much time left to live.
    This kind of drama actually brings out the acting ability of an actor. The success of this drama depends on how good the main actor presents. No doubt Yoshitaka Yuriko (吉高由里子) has successfully play Minegishi Mioka in this drama. If you check out the previous similar drama that I introduce above, all of the actors turn out successful after the drama.
    One particular repeated action you’ll notice in this drama is that Minegishi Mioka (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子 do things right now as soon as she thought of it. She does not wait nor think twice. Time is precious especially for Minegishi Mioka (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子. As she has only a year or more to live, she tries to do as many things she can. That is why her life is meaningful and enjoyable as she makes full use of her remaining time. Imagine if we can live for a thousand years but reduces to only hundred years, will we try to live out best to cover the things we lost for 900 years? I suppose it doesn’t matter how long we can live. What matters most is how we live the best of our lives within the given time.

Things that caught my eyes:
Despite of the sad crying scene, we see happy, enjoyable and cherish moment a lot more in this drama. It gives us feelings that although life has been shorten but it contains the best and wonderful moments of a normal 100 year life.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This type of Japan drama never fails to touch the heart and soul of audiences. Each of these Japan dramas introduces different uncured diseases but presents the strong will and fighting spirits of a person to stay alive.

Purchase:
2010 Japanese Drama: Mioka w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: Hotaru by Fukuyama Masaharu

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Hotaru no Hikari ホタルノヒカリ Season 2 – Release July 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか has return to Japan after station for 3 years in Hong Kong. Her first action after returning to her old rented house is to transform back to “don’t worry but lay around and relax” style.  After 3 years Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか is still the same girl who likes to wear jersey and relax at home. Unfortunately Takano Seiichi  (Fujiki Naohito ) 藤木直人  who is her landlord, her superior and her boy friend already have lots of plans for both of them. As Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか is looking forward to get back to her same old lifestyle, Takano Seiichi (Fujiki Naohito) 藤木直人 is preparing to marry Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか. This is a big surprise to Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか as she lifestyle might take a big turn because of the marriage or after the marriage. While she is very happy with the suggestion, Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか has no idea about what marriage is about.

Hotaru no Hikari ホタルノヒカリ First Season Review

Feelings and comments:
Season 2 of this drama still is as good as season 1. There are lots of changes after 3 years but the chemistry between Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか and Takano Seiichi (Fujiki Naohito) 藤木直人 is still there. I guess the best part of this drama is to see how they interact with each other.
    This drama actually brings out all the concern from both parties when it comes to marriage. The example provided in this drama is very good as the differences between the couple are a lot but yet they are still able to work things out just because they understand and love each other. If you take a look closely you’ll find that they have differences in age, status, thoughts, personality and lifestyle. It’s almost like opposite attracts. Although it seems like this couple is a matching between brainless and brainy but the problems they encounter while preparing for the wedding are about the same as everybody else. At the end of the drama you might find that both of them are able to solve their problems and differences with just one simple method.

Things that caught my eyes:
I suppose the weird thoughts of Amemiya Hotaru (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか are the most interesting part. You’ll never know what to expect from this girl. Ironically Takano Seiichi (Fujiki Naohito) 藤木直人seems to understand her well enough to know exactly how she thinks.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. It’s a fun romantic comedy with getting married as the title theme. It will be better to catch up with the first season of this drama before watching second season.

Purchase:
2010 Japanese Drama: Hotaru no Hikari II w/ Eng Sub, Theme Song Single

Drama Theme Song: Kimi ga iru by Ikimono-gakari

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Chaseチェイス – Release April 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Haruma Sosuke (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 is a government agent for the National Tax Agency Bureau. His job is to investigate businesses or individuals who evades or falsely report taxes. One day a plane crash incident which causes the death of his wife changes his life. Haruma Sosuke (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 has to reduces his work load to take care of his daughter. In the other hand, several cases which Haruma Sosuke (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 used to handle reveals a connection towards the plane crash accident and the death of his wife. As Haruma Sosuke (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 started to investigate deeper, he found out a professional tax evades name Shuji Murakumo (Arata) 井浦新 who is behind several complicated tax evade plans. These plans involves international taxation are part of a huge deceive plan which links to the death of his wife.

Feelings and comments:
There are two things that make this drama interesting. First is the taxation law around the world and methods to evade tax. You may discover that taxation is a big topic which not just involves income taxes but also business taxes and international export/import taxes. It is fascinating to discover that in some countries there are no income taxes, and in some countries there is no inheritance tax.
    Second is the outstanding acting performance of Shuji Murakumo (Arata) 井浦新. He actually creates a very deep impression and mysterious aura which draws attention and curiosity of viewers. Haruma Sosuke (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 still is as good as always but Shuji Murakumo (Arata) 井浦新 turns out extraordinary in this drama.
    It’s a large amount of money as one has to pay inheritance tax of up to 50% of property. I won’t be surprise if people will take all necessary steps to reduce or evade the tax. Even normal salary man will try to pay as little tax as possible when filling income tax. So do we have anybody who is happy to pay their taxes?

Things that caught my eyes:
It’s interesting to know the differences of taxation laws in other countries. Especially for the case of inheritance tax, I beginning to understand why some people love to travel, buy a yachts and give birth in other country.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This is an incredible crime story from a different way of approach.

Purchase:
2010 Japanese Drama : CHASE (Kokuzei Sasatsukan) w/ Eng

Drama Theme Song: 退行by Naruyoshi Kikuchi

Japan Drama Preview:
Sorry, not available.

Shinzanmono新参者 – Release April 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 is just transferred to Nihonbashi police department. As soon as Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 starts working in this new environment, a woman who is also new in town was murdered. Immediately Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 is put on the investigation group to check out the murder suspects. This also gives him a chance to get to know the people around the streets. One by one Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 reads their mind and see through the lies within the suspects. This eventually brings him closer to the actual killer.

Feelings and comments:
There are three common reasons that people lie. The first reason is to protect own self. The second reason is trying to scam or trick others. The third reason is to protect or cover for others. Human is a creature that is good in lying. If we can sense the lies within, then we can certainly figure out the truth behind. Lies are the shadows of truth. We just have to trace it back to where it comes from.
    It’s always interesting and fun to watch drama cast by Abe Hiroshi (阿部寛). His facial impression speaks even when silent. I suppose that’s what we call great acting. Never the less most of the guest stars appeared in this drama are main cast in several other dramas. I suppose that is why such a simple story drama can be well presented.
    There is one thing that really impresses me is that in the process of investigating the homicide case, Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 not just investigating the suspects but also helps to solve their problems. The work of the police is not just fighting crimes but also helps to improve quality life of others. I think this is call serving the public.

Things that caught my eyes:
Those delicious desserts are always around. Kaga Kyoichiro (Abe Hiroshi) 阿部寛 interests on those desserts are just the same as the homicide case.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. The story is simple but the drama is able to bring out the very best of all the touching moments. This is not just a simple homicide detective drama but a collection of touching stories surrounding all the suspects.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, 2010 Japanese Drama : Shinzanmono w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: Machimonogatari by Yamashita Tatsuro

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正義の味方 Seigi no Mikata – Release July 08

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Japan Drama Story:
Nakata Yoko (Shida Mirai) 志田未来 has an elder sister name Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優. Her sister Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 is a beautiful smart woman. In fact she might be a little too smart when it comes to her own benefits. Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 is very good in argument and debate as her boss always ends up speechless when dealing with her. When it comes to getting what she wants, Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 always make full use of her little sister Nakata Yoko (Shida Mirai) 志田未来. Although Nakata Yoko (Shida Mirai) 志田未来 don’t like it and always blog about how devil like her sister is, Nakata Yoko (Shida Mirai) 志田未来 still has to agree that her sister Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 is always right about things. The most unbelievable scenario is that Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優’s action and decision even wins her the title of “Ally of Justice”.

Feelings and comments:
This is a fun and entertaining drama that focus on the interaction between couple of sister. I have to say, sometimes relationship between brothers or sisters can be a little unexpected. It might seems like they don’t like each other, but actually they are watching for each other. Most of the time brothers or sisters don’t show out their love directly. I suppose it’s just too embarrassing to say “I care about you” suddenly after all those years staying together. Those words can be difficult to spill out if the family is not use to saying it regularly.
    The interaction between Nakata Yoko (Shida Mirai) 志田未来 and Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 is just fantastic. It’s actually very interesting and natural to watch all the jokes and fun created by this couple. It also reminds me of lots of old memories between me and my brother. My brother and I always fight with each other when we were young. The fight was too frequent until my grandmother pray for us to stop fighting. Well, that actually works as we stop fighting and become close as we grow up.
    By the way we can also witness some of the smart tricks that woman always pull off, especially for Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優.

Things that caught my eyes:
The western style imported chair which Nakata Makiko (Yamada Yu) 山田優 sits at home is just too obvious. It just doesn’t look right or suitable in a traditional Japanese home where they only sits on the floor.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. It’s a fun and entertaining drama which the big sister is always full with tricks and ideas on how to make full use of her little sister. The little sister might not like it but that’s just the way the big sister protects and teaches the little sister without showing her love directly.

Purchase:
TV series, Original Soundtrack, Seigi No Mikata

Drama Theme Song: Honto wa ne by Okumura Hatsune

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曲げられない女 Magerarenai Onna – Release Jan 10

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Japan Drama Story:
Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 works in a law firm while trying to obtain her license to become a lawyer. Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 is 32 years old and has been failing the examination bar for nine consecutive years. Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 has a boy friend lawyer that works together in the same law firm. They did not get married because Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 wanted to concentrate on getting her lawyer license first. Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 does not mix well with others nor fits in to the society. That’s because she is a woman that does not go along with trends or environment but always pursuit her own will and thoughts. She does not twist or go around issues. Despite her strange mind set, she is still able to find couples of friends that can help her get though life.

Feelings and comments:
The big slap by Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 at the beginning of first episode has convince me to finish the whole drama. I suppose that’s my first impression I get which acknowledge the acting ability of Kanno Miho (菅野美穂). The strange characteristic of Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 draws my curiosity of knowing her decision and witness her next action.
    No doubt Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 is a strange person. She seems to live by her own world with her own rules. If we take a look deeper in her condition, we all actually are facing the same problem as she did. There are two ways that we can live our life. Either we choose the path of life style we want and take control of situation around, or we can go along with the condition and accept the things presented in our life. Ogiwara Saki (Kanno Miho) 菅野美穂 is just an ordinary woman that refuse to give in to all the obstacles in life. It’s a typical example of consistency, endurance and never gives up until success is achieved. Plus the help of friends are needed to take on the challenge life has to offer.

Things that caught my eyes:
The Michael Jackson songs with Kanno Miho (菅野美穂) dancing are funny but I just couldn’t laugh out loud. In fact I’m impressed by the consistent accuracy of paper throwing, and of cause the secret of the shutter.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. The story might be simple but the acting performance of Kanno Miho (菅野美穂) is brilliant and entertaining.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, Uncompromised Woman / Magerarenai Onna Japanese Tv Drama Dvd with English Subtitle NTSC All Region

Drama Theme Song: Modorenai Ashita by aiko

Japan Drama Preview:

東京DOGS Tokyo DOGS – Release Oct 09

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Japan Drama Story:
Takakura So (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 is an elite cop that station in New York. Ever since his father was murdered right in front of him, he has sworn to capture the criminal with his own hands. Unfortunately he is still unable to do that because the criminal is one of the top mafia bosses in the world. During one of the pursuit mission, a young Japanese girl - Matsunaga Yuki (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子which the police believe to be related to the criminal lost her memory. She was send back to Japan for treatment. At the same time Takakura So (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 is assigned back to Japan to protect the girl. A local police detective Kudo Maruo (Mizushima Hiro) 水嶋ヒロ partner with Takakura So (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 and take on the protection assignment. They also started the investigation around Matsunaga Yuki (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子 to find out the relationship and information regarding the top mafia boss.

Feelings and comments:
When it comes to police action drama, I still prefer US production series. They just make it so exciting and heart pounding. As for this Japan police drama, it’s the best Japanese police series that I’ve seen. Takakura So (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 and Kudo Maruo (Mizushima Hiro) 水嶋ヒロ seems like a dynamic duo. We can see some similarities when compare to police movies like Lethal Weapon and Bad Boys. I think there will be more police drama just like this one in future. There are still lots of improvement can be done to make this Japan police drama better. First is the action scene which includes explosion, guns shooting, hand to hand combat is a must. That’s where the excitement comes in and they have to make it as real as possible. Second will be the story line but I think Japan has lots of good story. It’s just a matter of transferring it from words to the screen. Police drama is about excitement, cool gadgets, guns, cool guys and beautiful sexy girls. I suppose a good mixture and combination of all those mention above is enough to produce a fairly good police drama.

Things that caught my eyes:
Well, just a few of not so ordinary scenes which I found interesting. First, I love it when Takakura So’s (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 mother call and she always made the call in the right time. Second, Matsunaga Yuki (Yoshitaka Yuriko) 吉高由里子 always gets the shoulder flip over form Takakura So (Oguri Shun) 小栗旬 even until the end. Third, they seem to enjoy firing their guns a lot until it seems a bit over acting.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This is the best police Japan drama that I ever seen. It looks like they manage to include western style of police drama series into this drama.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, 2009 Japanese Drama : Tokyo Dogs w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: Futatsu no Kuchibiru by EXILE

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ライアーゲーム LIAR GAME Season 2 – Release Nov 09

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Japan Drama Story:
After game 3 of liar game competition, Kanzaki Nao (Toda Erika) 戸田恵梨香and Akiyama Shinichi (Matsuda Shota) 松田翔太 seems to escape from the game for good. One day both of them received an invitation from Liar Game organization to continue on with Game 4. As much as they hate to go back into the game, both of them still return to the game. Kanzaki Nao (Toda Erika) 戸田恵梨香 wanted to save as many players from the game and Akiyama Shinichi (Matsuda Shota) 松田翔太 wanted to destroy the game organization and eliminate the competition for good. Thus Kanzaki Nao (Toda Erika) 戸田恵梨香, Akiyama Shinichi (Matsuda Shota) 松田翔太 and their previous rival Fukunaga Yuji (Suzuki Kosuke) 鈴木浩介 team up to take on the challenge of Game 4 in Liar Game.

Feelings and comments:
I miss the first season of this drama. Still it won’t make much difference as the story of this drama is simple. Basically the game played is the most interesting part. It’s the game created in Liar Game which is fun and interesting to check out. So I’ll go for the first season and the movie version of Liar Game after watching season 2 still won’t spoil the sensation of this drama.
    As this is all about Liar Game, basically the organizer expects players to lie and trick others to win the game. That’s most players will normally do. Unfortunately there is one player that uses the opposite method to win the game. She is Kanzaki Nao (Toda Erika) 戸田恵梨香 and her believes and trust towards other player makes her a winner. This drama is mostly about mind game. It’s basically says that people are selfish when it comes to own benefits. When it comes to team work, believe and trust is needed in order to get things done. The only way to gain trust from others is to trust others first. Sadly not many people can do that because the one who trust first normally suffers a lot of betrays. Still that is the only way to find people who we can truly trust.

Things that caught my eyes:
The stages and game equipment looks cool. If there is such a theme park design according to the games in this drama, it should be fun to play.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. If you love to play games, especially related to mind games than this drama is for you.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, Japanese Drama - LIAR GAME - w/ English Subtitle, 2009 Japanese Drama : LIAR GAME II w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: -

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スマイルSmile – Release April 09

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Japan Drama Story:
Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 is a half Filipino half Japanese who born and raised in Japan. He never did stay in Philippines and did not know the local language too. Due to his name and appearance, he is always referred as outsider in Japan. Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 used to involve in gangs activities but now trying to start a new life working in a food services. He is still in probation for his action but already made up his mind not to return to the gangster world. Mishima Hana (Aragaki Yui) 新垣結衣 is a high school girl who lost her voice due to an incident. She met Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 in a book store and falls in love at first sight. Even though she can’t speak but they are still able to maintain a relationship. Everything was fine until Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 met his former gang member and getting involve as a suspect in a crime scene. Luckily Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤 met a lawyer name Ito Kazuma (Nakai Kiichi) 中井貴一 who helps him on legal advice and to regain his freedom, rights and innocent.

Feelings and comments:
This drama has a group of talented cast, a good story and a good song. There is a bit of sad projection of how the world works but everything adds up just nice to make this a good drama. You might sense that this might just be another heartbroken drama that going to make you tears, but actually it’s not. This is simply a heartwarming drama which tells the story of how people struggle to survive in a non perfect world.
Racism happens everywhere in the world. It existed long ago, now and will continue to exist in future. No doubt things are better and there are improvements but still in some part of the world, racism still exists. This drama took place in Japan but still the quote “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King is applicable. The three character that suffers from racism are Hayakawa Vito (Matsumoto Jun) 松本潤, Mishima Hana (Aragaki Yui) 新垣結衣 and Ito Kazuma (Nakai Kiichi) 中井貴一. All three of them face difficulties either in life, work, society and even family. Each of their problems is different but still they are all related to racism.
One thing that I found which is very encouraging is that no matter what happens you just have to put on a smile. No matter what happen, life still goes on. It’s better to put on a smiling face than drag a sad long face. I suppose this is call being positive. Good things will come eventually.

Things that caught my eyes:
The skin color and makeup really makes Matsumoto Jun (松本潤) looks partly Filipino. The clothing also contributes partly as it seems out of fashion. This drama really brings out how human judge others by the way they look.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This is a very meaningful drama about romance, justice, equality and the will to keep on living. This is a story about people who are a bit different struggle to survive and fit in the society.

Purchase:
TV series, Original Soundtrack, 2009 Japanese Drama : - Smile - W/ English Subtitle, Ariamaru Tomi

Drama Theme Song: Ariamaru Tomi by Shiina Ringo

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Real Clothesリアル・クローズ – Release Oct 09

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Japan Drama Story:
Amano Kinue (Karina) 香里奈 used to work as a sales girl at futon section of a department store. When the department store hired Jinbo Miki (Kuroki Hitomi) 黒木瞳 as section head of the woman’s fashion department, Amano Kinue (Karina) 香里奈 is asked to transfer to woman’s fashion department. No doubt that Amano Kinue (Karina) 香里奈 was highly recommended by her former boss but she seems like not the person that fits in the woman’s fashion department. Still Amano Kinue (Karina) 香里奈 has no choice but to learn and struggle with the new environment and new boss. Despite her lack of sense in fashion, she began to understand her true self as she starting to catch up with the world of fashion.

Feelings and comments:
This drama reminds me of a US movie call The Devils wears Prada. There are some similarities but I think this drama is more focus on Japan fashion. This drama really tells us about the world of fashion in Japan.
    There are lots of quotes in the drama that related to woman, especially working woman. There is one quote that I like most and it goes like “Appearance is everything…”, still I think this quote is debatable. Perhaps it’s all depends on who you are and how you look at yourself in the mirror. Clothes and dresses take up a big part of our life. We can’t just say it doesn’t matter how we dress up because people are not judge just by their clothes. The truth is, it does matter in the reality world. I suppose most of us understand this once we started to work and get a job. By the way, this goes the same to both man and woman.

Things that caught my eyes:
Clothes are the one that makes the spot lights in this drama. The brands, high heels, jeans, dresses and the models make this a Japan fashion introduction drama.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This drama is like a modern version of ugly duckling in a world of fashion.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, 2009 Japanese Drama : Real Clothes w/ Eng Sub


Drama Theme Song: Kitto Daijobu by Sakazume Misako

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JIN-仁- – Release Oct 09

 

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Japan Drama Story:
Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお is a brain surgeon that lost confidence after performing an unsuccessful operation on his lover. As a result his lover goes into coma and did not wake up. One day after performing an operation and rescue a mysterious guy, he was sent back in time back to Japan Edo period.  The first thing Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかおdid was perform a simple surgery to rescue a samurai name Tachibana Kyotaro (Koide Keisuke) 小出恵介. In return Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお was able to stay at his house while figure out what to do. At the end the only thing that Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお was able to do is to continue saving life with his medical knowledge. As Tachibana Saki (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるかor Kyotaro’s sister shows interest in medical field, she helps and becomes Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお assistance. At the meantime Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお keeps on searching for the way to return to present world.

Feelings and comments:
I think this is the first time that I watch a jidaigeki drama or a historical drama. This drama really brings back the Edo period where the famous Sakamoto Ryoma (Uchino Masaaki) 内野聖陽 existed. I think the best part of the drama is watching Tomonaga Nokaze (Nakatani Miki) 中谷美紀. Her acting of being the highest ranked courtesan really is awesome. Her every movement, conversation, costumes and facial expression is state of the art. Another attraction is Tachibana Saki (Ayase Haruka) 綾瀬はるか dress. It’s always very delicate and beautiful. Finally the drama is able to produce streets that resemble the old Edo period. That’s just really historical and attractive.
    Time travel back to time is always interesting. There are lots of possibilities and the story is unpredictable. There is couple of things that makes me think. Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお always worries and concern about the future that he might change. The fact that he is back in time and every action that he did might affect the future that he knows. It’s something like the butterfly effect, meaning even a small action can create a big effect in future. Is it really true? Is a small butterfly or even a human being can change the course of history? I suppose we are not that significant.
    Another thing about Minakata Jin (Osawa Takao) 大沢たかお is that he doesn’t have any desire. Given the fact that he’s from the future and did not hope to live in Edo period, it’s just the same as denying his existence. A person without any desire is lifeless. It might sound a bit ironic, but desire makes us fight to live on and feels alive.

Things that caught my eyes:
The tumor from the patient’s head that looks like a child infant really is creepy, especially when the infant opens up the eye. That part should have modified.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. It’s been a while that I did not watch such an exciting drama. The idea of time travel is not a new thing but the story is most definitely interesting.

Purchase:
2009 Japanese Drama : Jin w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: Aitakute Ima by MISIA

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Kyumei Byoto 24 Ji救命病棟24時 season 4– Release Aug 09

 

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Japan Drama Story:
Shindo Issei (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 returns from Africa to help rebuilt emergency room section of Kainan Medical center. All the doctors from the emergency room section resigned at the same time because they were unable to cope with the overload work volume, high stress and long working hours. Shindo Issei (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 together with Kojima Kaede (Matsushima Nanako) 松嶋菜々子 and other new doctors were brought together to rebuilt the emergency room section. Despite their effort to get doctors to work at emergency room, problems that cause previous doctors resign still remains.

Feelings and comments:
It’s good to see Matsushima Nanako (松嶋菜々子) back in action. After taking a break for such a long time, she still hasn’t lost her touch in acting. She even won herself the best actress award with this drama. I’m sure we’ll see more of her in the coming drama.
Doctors are human too. They make mistakes and they need rest. Most important of all they need the support from the government and everybody else. In order to build a good medical center, cooperation from each party is necessary. There is no perfect solution, this is only best solution. No doubt doctors are not allowed to make mistakes, that’s because it’s human life that they are dealing with. That is why there are strict rules and procedures.

Things that caught my eyes:
As this is the fourth season of this drama, the new and young casts Kamoi Chinatsu (Kitano Kii) 北乃きい and Kudo Ryosuke (Ishida Takuya) 石田卓也 are the main focus. The interaction and chemistry between the new and old cast brings in new flavors into the drama.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. This drama is still as exciting as before even after 3 seasons. It’s a short drama this time but it’s enough to produce a satisfactory view.

Purchase:
Original soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Sono Saki e by Dreams Come True feat. FUZZY CONTROL

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Japan Drama NG Scene:

Ninkyo Helper任侠ヘルパー – Release July 09

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Japan Drama Story:
Tsubasa Hikoichi (Kusanagi Tsuyoshi) 草彅剛 is a yakuza whose territory located at Roppongi. His theme of being a yakuza is to help the weak and those who needed help. Still he feels it’s getting difficult for yakuza to make a living in this modern world without cheating or breaking the law. One day he was call by his boss for an election of a higher ranking in the group. It turns out that he has to undergo a special test together with 5 other yakuza candidates. Only one out of six of them will be elected for the position. Their test is to work as helper in the elderly care facilities which situated in enemy territory.

Feelings and comments:
It’s been a while that I have not encountered a good drama until now. This drama can be considered one of the best that I’ve seen in months. I saw a lot of Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (草彅剛) dramas and I have to say, I never expect him to be so good in this drama. He totally stands out from all other characters.
No doubt it’s difficult to survive in this world, which includes Yakuza too. Perhaps the only way to earn a living is to equip ourselves with knowledge. It’s not just knowledge but the basic foundation that enables us to keep on learning and improving. That includes realizing the changes around the society. As for this case it’s the increase of the elderly people in society.
People get old. What do we do when our parents become old? Send them to elderly care facility or take care of them ourselves? These are the questions that we will face eventually. Perhaps there is no right answer. We just have to do what is best for all, meaning for the benefits of ourselves and our parents. Sacrifice the life of either one side is not going to help.

Things that caught my eyes:
I wonder how they make the tattoo looks real. At the end, it’s the acting of Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (草彅剛) that caught my attention.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. I’m surprise to see how talented Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (草彅剛) is. His acting really makes me continue watching and finished the drama. This drama also reflexes the elderly care problem Japan faces, or should I say we all are facing.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack, 2009 Japanese Drama : Ninkyo Helper w/ Eng Sub

Drama Theme Song: Sotto Kyutto by SMAP

Japan Drama Preview:

Triangleトライアングル – Release Jan 09

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Japan Drama Story:
A 10 year old girl was killed back in 1984. The murderer was not found and the case remains unsolved until now. A man name Goda Ryoji (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 seems to have some connection with this case. He used to be a doctor but later become an international police. One day Goda Ryoji (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介 disguised as personal tour guide for a girl name Sachi (Hirosue Ryoko) 広末涼子 in France. Sachi (Hirosue Ryoko) 広末涼子 seems to has some connection with the unsolved case too. As Goda Ryoji (Eguchi Yosuke) 江口洋介transferred himself back to Japan police department, a colleague name Kuroki Shun (Inagaki Goro) 稲垣吾郎 received a mysterious call informing that the case (The 1984 10 year old girl murder case) hasn’t end…yet.

Feelings and comments:
The drama looks more like a mystery suspense story then a detective story. The question of “Who kill the little girl?” always surrounded the whole story. As it’s a unsolved murder case, it gets complicated as time goes by. The script of the drama is well written in a sense that it makes you wonder everybody is a suspect. It just seems like every characters have some secrets that connect to the unsolved murder case.
There are so many people died in murder cases in the world every single minute as we speak. There are also a lot of people died in the frequent natural disaster lately. We don’t actually feel the impact unless our loves one involved. It just takes a death of a person close by, either murdered or died of natural disaster to change our life completely. Honestly I don’t think we can understand the feelings unless we experience the lost of loves one ourselves. Perhaps the best way is to imagine and think “What if…” Only then we might start to do what we can to help those that involved in the unfortunate tragedy, Instead of just having thoughts of “Doesn’t concern me…”

Things that caught my eyes:
The scene and each clips of the drama is well connected, It makes you suspect there are some untold secrets behind. The drama really did a good job in fooling our eyes.

Japan Drama Rating:
Worth watching. You just can’t stop until you finish the whole series.

Purchase:
Original Soundtrack

Drama Theme Song: Sayonara wa Iwanai by Oda Kazumasa

Japan Drama Preview: