I only occasionally tune in on Japanese dramas, so most of the time I'm out of the loop about them. Thus, I'm really glad to have come across this drama. This show is a breath of fresh air to me, and short J-drama episode lengths make it a breeze to watch. As of this review, I have completed Episode 9 and eagerly await the next one. This review may contain spoilers!
Storyline:
I ...
I only occasionally tune in on Japanese dramas, so most of the time I'm out of the loop about them. Thus, I'm really glad to have come across this drama. This show is a breath of fresh air to me, and short J-drama episode lengths make it a breeze to watch. As of this review, I have completed Episode 9 and eagerly await the next one. This review may contain spoilers!
Storyline:
I was initially attracted to this drama based on its storyline, as I had nothing else to go off of. Precognitive dreams and peering into the subconscious? The premise is nothing new, but it's a solid one indeed. Albeit simplistic at first glance, this drama has its own share of twists and turns. I particularly like this setup in which the main plot is interwoven into a series of small plots. This isn't unheard of, but it makes for good character development in the midst of all the peripheral details, which I'll expand on later. The transfer of Yuiko Kouto to the school Ayami Mutoi teaches at is the ultimate catalyst, setting off a multitude of problems to be solved, as well as Ayami's personal journey toward self-fulfillment. It's interesting how the drama goes right to the psyche, scrutinizing characters from their subconscious instead of taking everything at face value.
The drama's comical points generally fall short, but it's enjoyable for those who like slapstick comedy. I'll give it props for hitting the comedic mark and making me burst into a dumbfounded chirp at times I least expect it. The quality of the CGI wasn't the best at the beginning, but this improved during its run as well. In any case, the narrative quality never detracts from my overall enjoyment of the show.
Music:
The music is quirky but rather befitting, especially when it comes to some of the more surreal nightmare-related parts. I enjoy Momoiro Clover Z's "Farewell, My Dear Sorrows" as part of the drama's OST. It's upbeat and keeps you on your toes, namely when the plot accelerates and has your heart racing along with it.
Characters:
Character development is this drama's forte, especially in regard to our protagonist, Ayami Mutoi. Just when you think there couldn't possibly be any more layers to this woman, off comes another layer. Then again, who doesn't love a multifaceted protagonist?
Ayami doesn't aspire to greater heights; all she wants is a normal, stable life in which she goes solo. Despite her goals being nothing laudable, I love that she knows exactly what she wants. Her lucid dreams fall perfectly in line with her obstinate character, because she doesn't let anything get the better of her, not even her dreams. Although Takashi Shiki manages to move her slightly, in no way does he ever get the upper hand over her rational judgment. Her emotional scars make it impossible for her to give in to a shallow romantic desire; she seeks refuge in her self-controlled dreams for those kinds of indulgences. I wouldn't say this behavior of hers is healthy in any way, but through closing herself off from others, she has developed a kind of fortitude which will hold up even when she is faced with her true fears.
Takashi Shiki is as shady as they come, using borderline illicit means to accomplish his ends. I can't find myself rooting for his character nor his cause, because he appears to care less about the fruit of his work and more about the advancement of his career. One questions why he's literally the prince of her dreams: Is there depth to him or is this a mere coincidence? Could it really be the latter, even with the existence of Ayami's precognitive abilities?
I'm loving the frenemy relationship between Ayami and the school nurse. The latter is ditzy in all respects, but as viewers, we can tell she has a heart and will aid the students through all their difficulties. There is a stark contrast between the two women; it's interesting watching their personalities clash while at the same time being of mutual benefit to one another.
Acting:
My first impression of Keiko Kitagawa's acting was that it was raw and at some points, mediocre at best. I suppose I can attribute my initial qualms to the fact that she probably hadn't quite settled into her role at first, because she slowly grew on me. She began to hit all the right marks and portray a very believable Ayami, especially when her character dropped the cheerful pretense for good.
At first, I thought that Manatsu Kimura, who plays Yuiko Kouto, had probably been miscast. I was expecting a dark, brooding child whose nightmares made her not only asocial but even antisocial. After realizing that her character was supposed to be a sweet and innocent girl plagued by an unfortunate disorder, I came to enjoy her presence. Some of the other children's acting are either exaggerated or not up to par, but that can be easily overlooked through suspension of disbelief.
Overall:
I give this drama 4/5 as a whole. Despite its harmless quirks and minor fluctuations in pace, this is definitely worth the watch. As I rarely watch J-dramas, it's a treat to be met with a gem when I do.
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