 Hana Yori Dango [花より男子]
Rating: 8/10 (Watched)
As a manga purist, I give this series some credit for pulling off a story within such a limited amount of episodes. Seeing as how this series is extremely popular, I fail to see what is exactly special about Hana Yori Dango. Yes, I did enjoy it, but I found myself not as engaged with the characters as I usually am with other series.
The characters were well-played. I give Matsumoto Jun a lot of credit for playing the best Doumyouji imaginable, hands down. However, a part of me is disappointed with what they did to Yuki's character though. As I mentioned before, I'm a manga purist, and I couldn't believe the stalker-like personality they had given her character at the end of the first season. If you haven't guessed, she's my favorite out of all of the characters in Hana Yori Dango.
Still, I recommend this series. | Nodame Cantabile [のだめ カンタビ−レ]
Rating: 9/10 (Watched)
Of all the dramas I've seen, Nodame Cantabile holds a special place in my heart. With its unique charm, I was hooked with the first episode. Everything about it was comical but also well-balanced with a healthy dose of gravity, which doesn't define the series as wholly comedic. The special effects were a pleasure to watch. As an adaptation from the manga, I was pleased to see that there was an animated quality of the series without looking too fake.
Although I do question the authenticity of conducting, the acting was well-executed. I adored Ueno Juri's Nodame and Tamaki Hiroshi's Chiaki. The entire cast got along well, and it was apparent near the end. All the actors looked as if they would cry together on set. This series will remain as my top recommendation to those who are just getting into Japanese dramas. Gyabo! | Trick [トリック]
Rating: 9/10 (Watched)
The combination of witty banter, strange phenomena, and an almost nonexistent romantic tie between two people make for an excellent drama to watch. With TRICK, I was thoroughly amused and caught in suspense at the right moments. The only problem I see with this series is that one must have enough knowledge with the Japanese language and culture to understand most of the jokes. Most of the time, things are lost in translation, and so the punchline may not have a successful effect with some people. I'll admit I was lost a couple of times, but I still love the series nonetheless.
With three seasons and two movies, I'm impressed that a series has gone this far. I love the running jokes and the possible romance between Naoko and Ueda, although a part of me is still screaming for something to spark sooner or later. I definitely recommend this series. |
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