Kimi wa Petto [きみはペット] tl;dr to the EXTREME [Rating: 9/10] Okay, reading through some of these reviews, I can't help but feel a little bit defensive. I downloaded this drama with absolutely zero fangirling of any of the actors (yes, even of Matsumoto Jun), and zero expectations one way or the other. And what I got was one of the few Dramas since Hana Yori Dango that I just couldn't. Stop. Watching.
Firstly, I really, really identified with Sumire. Sure, I'm not a Japanese business professional, but she and I have many of the same emotional reservations, so I commiserated with her struggle.
Secondly, I really loved how the series dealt realistically with the pervasive misogyny in Japanese society, and all the shit that Sumire had to deal with simply because she had a uterus and boobs. Some of the most heart-wrenching moments of the series for me were Sumire's frustrations at being envied for her success, and at being disregarded and ridiculed in spite of her talents and hard work.
Thridly, I find it kind of ridiculous that anybody is watching JDrama, or any drama for that matter, expecting realism. Yes, the plot is unlikely, but no more unlikely than a commoner attending an elite school for the rich, and having the RICHEST guy there fall in love with her; no more unbelievable than a math teacher from a family of yakuza deciding to personally deal with the troubles of her delinquent students. What makes this Drama stand out for me was that it actually didn't stretch my willing suspension of disbelief, because the characterization was strong. I could *believe* that Takeshi would willingly become somebody's pet, I could *believe* that Sumire might just be desperate enough to ask him to become one. Then again, I'm a fan of unconventional romances, so the premise of the series doesn't squick me at all. Especially after all the development that the relationship undergoes over the course of ten episodes. And that was the biggest pro about this series, for me at least: The characters were fully fleshed out, and they underwent subtle and believable development -- something that many shoujo-esque romances lack.
Lastly, I found its commentary on love and relationships absolutely fascinating, whether I agree with all of its moral assertions or not. It actually made me *think*, which is something that I personally look for in the shows that I watch.
All in all, I would say that this is not a Drama that everyone will enjoy (and, judging from the other reviews on this website, my assessment is correct). It deals with subjects that may make some feel uncomfortable, it relies on character interaction for the vast majority of its conflict (meaning that there's very little in the way of 'action'), and the main premise of the series may in and of itself be too overblown (though, in my opinion, no more overblown than 99% of JDrama romances) for some viewers to stomach. But I strongly recommend that you give it a try, because you may very well love it as much as I did.
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Kimi wa Petto [きみはペット]
