This was my introduction to the world of Japanese Drama, and I couldn't have picked a better presentation. First, I think Matsushima Nanako is an actress of the very highest caliber as she brings, humor, intelligence and sensitivity to her role as Hirose Michi, a 26 year old teacher dissatisfied with her life, but unable to change it's direction toward a loveless marriage and a less then satisfying career. Everything changes when she meets and bonds with Kurasawa Hikaru, a 17 year old transfer student with his own problems, which mirror her own. Mutual attraction leads to attachment and finally, love. This leads to a situation where they must contend with a society that is unaccepting of such an unusual relationship. The remainder of the series follows their trials and tribulations leading to a bittersweet, yet hopeful finale.
In lesser hands this might have been no more than another exploitive teen drama, but the writers seem to have had more in mind. This is a story of true, deep and lasting love where the only crime is that Hikaru was born 9 years too late. Made with obvious love, the 11 part serial is difficult to find in the U.S., especially with English subtitles, but is well worth the effort.
My highest Recommendation!
In lesser hands this might have been no more than another exploitive teen drama, but the writers seem to have had more in mind. This is a story of true, deep and lasting love where the only crime is that Hikaru was born 9 years too late. Made with obvious love, the 11 part serial is difficult to find in the U.S., especially with English subtitles, but is well worth the effort.
My highest Recommendation!