 |
|
VCD Box
Soundtrack
| | Title: | Aoi tori
青い鳥
L'oiseau bleu / Blue bird | | Telecast: | 1997-10-10 to 1997-12-19 |
 Search forum for this drama
| | TV Station: | TBS | | Duration: | 12 Episodes
1 Special
| | Viewership: | 17.7% |
|  |
| Synopsis |
|---|
A tale of tragic love between Yoshimori, a station employee at a quiet, rural station, and Kahori, the wife of the heir to a family fortune. When Kahori's husband uncovers their affair, the star-crossed lovers try to flee with Kahori's daughter. Their search for safety and happiness takes them across the nation, from Hokkaido to Kagoshima. Filmed on location, this is an unforgettable story of romance told against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful scenery in Japan. | | TBS |
| Soundtrack and Theme Songs (1) |
|---|
| 1. | Wanderin' Destiny [globe] | [ LYRICS ] |
|
| Drama Reviews (16) |
|---|
!!WARNING!!
The review section may contain spoilers! Please understand
that you may find out about this drama's endings and plots!
| | 1. | Highly Recommanded [Rating: 10/10]
If you haven't seen this show, YOU MUST!! Etsushi Toyokawa's acting is SO GOOD.. the story is also great... should watch it if you haven't! | | Reviewed by julus on 15 June 2001 | | 2. | For me, the best dorama [Rating: 10/10]
This dorama had me thinking and rethinking about life. The complexity of life is in full display -- it is about a man, Yoshimori, who is symbolized by the blue bird that is caged up in the train station. He too is a sad figure, who lives a caged life, bound by his duty to fulfill his older brother's role, bound by guilt over his death, and then later, by his lover's death. This dorama goes through his liberation process so that at the last episode, his freedom is symbolized by the blue bird's release from the cage. Powerful and complex. | | Reviewed by dearjb on 26 June 2001 | | 3. | Something to think about [Rating: 10/10]
This dorama is dark and disturbing, which is part of why I like it. I have no idea what the ending means, but it's still awsome. It just leaves you speechless. And Suzuki An is so kawaii! | | Reviewed by hana on 18 April 2002 | | 4. | For me also, the best Japanese dorama ever... [Rating: 10/10]
I usually watch Aoi Tori once a year, just so I have a standard to measure other doramas by. Aoi Tori is probably the most powerful and meaningful dorama you will ever see. The story centers around a JR employee and the three females who love him, but this is not a comedy or light-hearted romance. All of the actors, from Toyo Etsu to Ann Suzuki, are top quality and brilliant in this intense story. The scenery is also incredible, as the story moves from a mountain resort to Aomori to Hakodate, the lake country of Hokkaido, and finally to Kyushu.
The music by Globe perfectly matches this dorama and you will remember the music for a long time afterwards. Halfway thru this compelling dorama, there is a dramatic change. The writer took a huge risk with such a change, but if you continue to watch, you will undestand why it happened, and how people changed because of it. At the end, a bluebird is set free from his cage at the station, just like the two people at the end who finally find happiness with each other. This is a dorama that will make you happy at times, anger you at other times, and always make you identify with Toyoetsu's character, his joy and his pain. He is awesome in this dorama, which is more like a long movie mini-series than just a dorama. There are many symbols in this dorama, and it's fun to watch and learn more about the story each time. It is probably the best thing that TBS has ever ever done. "Mieru?" | | Reviewed by meruchan on 23 May 2002 | | 5. | Unforgettable [Rating: 10/10]
This is VERY good. It doesn't follow convention drama plots or settings either. I don't think this drama is very dark at all actually. I'm at a loss of words for this drama. The theme of the caged bird carries throughout the story as a previous review mentions and is actually inspiring in a way. | | Reviewed by biga816 on 4 August 2002 | | 6. | A Must See! [Rating: 10/10]
One of the best (if not THE BEST) dorama that i've ever watched. Very strong and convincing performances by the entire acting staff, and although something tragic happens midway through the story (I won't tell) and you're left wondering where does the story goes from there, it really does continues on in interesting and thought provoking way. Big Kudos for this one. If you havent seen Aoi Tori yet, SEE IT! This one shouldn't be missed. | | Reviewed by Reggie on 16 January 2003 | | 7. | I wish I could have given a 10, but will give 9.85 [Rating: 9/10]
First I would like to list the things I really loved about the drama.
MUSIC - The music was great and perfect for the drama
SCENERY - I would have to say I was literally stunned by the beauty of the various scenes. It seemed like the majority of the scenes were directly outside or where you could see outside. I would say this is the best shot outdoor scenes I have ever seen.
ACTING - I think Nagasaku Hiromi did a very good job. Because he is more of a central figure, Toyokawa Etsushi did an excellent job as the other man. But I think little Suzuki An stole the show. She seems to naturally flow thru all the different scenes and different dialogue as if she was and old pro.
PLOT - My only misgiving about this centers on some of the plot deficiences for me at least. Even though it is obvious that Nagasaku character should get away from her husband and household, I don't sympathize with her character or her seducing Toyokawa especially since it is essentially right in front of her 9 year old kid that she supposedly loves so much. Also, the escape on a spur of the moment with no planning to have money or really evaluate the best way to get away. they just leave everything to chance, so obviously they are not going to be to sucessfully. Even something as simple as their 'new identity' is messed up. In japan your name is everything, especially having your seal to use on any kind of document(because her mother and the Toyokawa character didn't even think of this the little girl couldn't go to school for a while). Even when the tragedy occurs the mother is not thinking of the girl only herself. My only sympathy is with her daughters character. | | Reviewed by warren.mcclendon on 27 January 2003 | | 8. | Nothing But Amazing, the most touching drama i hav [Rating: 10/10]
The Best drama I have ever seen. It is so unlikely the other dramas that are out there. The romance between Shibata and the rich man's wife is so convience, you truly felt the romance between the two. In addition the scenery throughout each episode is nothing put amazing. I heard there is a special for this drama, I have yet to see it, but I know it reveals some new revelations, what is an added bonus to this drama. Highly recommend it, a must watch! | | Reviewed by dys199 on 21 April 2004 | | 9. | Good, but i dont see why it is so highly regarded [Rating: 8/10]
This drama had great music, actors, emotional involvement, and i agree that it has great scenery, BUT what i look for in a drama most importantly is the plot and this one had 1 or 2 big loopholes in it. it is a good drama, but i was kinda disappointed as i had definitely seen dramas which are more touching and have a better story than this one. I had high expectations for it after reading the majority of the reviews here but it turned out to be a bit disappointing for me. I was very impressed with the male lead actor though. Really cool acting style throughout the whole show. | | Reviewed by windrider on 21 July 2004 | | 10. | not as i expected [Rating: 5/10]
disappointing, despite the high ratings given by viewers.. | | Reviewed by juliana_phang on 13 December 2004 | | 11. | BAD [Rating: 1/10]
THis is the worst series ever.. it was soo boring.. and the ending was HORRIBLE!! DO NOT WATCH! watch something else! | | Reviewed by Piloha on 7 January 2005 | | 12. | moving [Rating: 10/10]
I found the emotions in the drama very moving. To wait for a long time for one's love can only be determined by faith.
this is the very first japanese drama i watched, though it was not subtitled ( i barely understand japanese), the actions of all the artists conveyed the message-that subtitling was almost not necessary. | | Reviewed by chin5 on 9 June 2005 | | 13. | Extremely good with a little bad [Rating: 9/10]
Ok, there were two plot turns in this drama that were extremely annoying and only made a little sense to me. So why rate it a 9? Because the rest of the story was one of the best I've seen from Japanese TV. The first 4 episodes were filled with a slowly building sexual tension that created a terrific dramatic atmosphere. And if you view the main characters as obviously having had emotionally damaging pasts, the events that occur could make sense. If you just go with the plot, the story really sweeps you along. The acting is good all around (though there were times when I wished the male lead would have displayed a bit more energy.) Both actresses playing the daughter were fantastic, especially An Suzuki. She was adorable without being overly cutsie.
The ending can leave you with questions but the short special episode answers them. | | Reviewed by johnjeon on 3 April 2006 | | 14. | Wanted to like this one... [Rating: 7/10]
This show started off strongly with the relationships between the main characters filled with tension. The story undergoes a major shift around episode 7 and I really felt after this point that the characters seem to lose touch with reality. The relationship between the daughter and the main character especially seemed forced and the ending seemed like it was sloppily put together just to get that last symbol of the caged bird to work.
I really wanted to enjoy Aoi Tori as it seemed like my kind of drama being slow moving and with an emphasis on characters but it really falls flat half way through. The dramas story and characters alone really deserves a 6 but the the production and scenery in this series is gorgeous(almost worth watching for this alone). How the show is shot bumped it up a point for me.
Aoi Tori is not bad by any means but if your expecting something special I'd say look else where. | | Reviewed by sucigam on 30 January 2007 | | 15. | Great! [Rating: 10/10]
The OST on this series is PERFECT! Interesting twists throughout the series too. Also couple of great views of countryside in Japan.
Different kind of dorama. Recommended! | | Reviewed by 8thSin on 10 February 2007 | | 16. | Tragic, Forbidden, Epic Love Story [Rating: 10/10]
An incredible ride of a love story. Actually, if you like the kind of thing on Lifetime or the Lifetime movie channel, this is like that, only better. The scenery is stunning and a wonderful part of the drama itself. Wonderful acting as well. | | Reviewed by bettebogart on 14 February 2008 |
|
| Comments From Users (38) |
|---|
!!WARNING!!
This section may contain spoilers! Do not proceed if you
do not want to read about this drama's endings and plots!
| | 1. | Comments by meruchan [Rating: 10/10]
Simply the best: Acting, scenery, script. | | 2. | Comments by hana [Rating: 10/10]
This drama is steamy and dark. It's terribly thrilling. I can't help but watch over and over. I love Sano Shiro!!! | | 3. | Comments by biga816 [Rating: 10/10]
I wish I could actually find this drama to buy. This is one of my favorites. I found the two girls in this drama to be quite charming. Etsushi Toyokawa plays his role to perfection. Not like conventional dramas. | | 4. | Comments by juliana_phang [Rating: 5/10]
plain boring.. | | 5. | Comments by Clockwork Orange [Rating: 6/10]
Very dramatic, but slow.. I know a lot of people love this drama, but I thought it could be much more exciting. | | 6. | Comments by dummyuser2 [Rating: 10/10]
This was my very first jdorama ever. If you like William Shakespeare tragedies, you'll like this drama. Somewhat depressing throughout the series, but the ending has a very refreshing side. The special is really not that worth the watch. | | 7. | Comments by fuyu [Rating: 3/10]
Depressing.. couldn't keep watching it. | | 8. | Comments by Dorochive [Rating: 6/10]
Like a pedophile show, can't help but to be disgusted. | | 9. | Comments by Bluejay [Rating: 10/10]
Aoi Tori has a very poignant and moving story that has lasted a long time in my thoughts. The characterizations are very strong, yet with complexity and subtlety. Beautiful scenery. | | 10. | Comments by laskyliner34 [Rating: 10/10]
Bar none the best, most inspiring, and touching drama in Japan or any county for that matter. Even an American drama hasen't caught my intrest and respect like L'oiseau Bleu (Aoi Tori) has. A perfect ensemble of characters. | | 11. | Comments by jjpsychic2 [Rating: 10/10]
by far one of the best dramas ever created.. it's so touching and the acting is superb.. the scenery and the music to this drama is well-set.. definitely a top 5 material.. must see | | 12. | Comments by Boogoo8 [Rating: 10/10]
Extremly GOOD! A must see dorama with very good actors/actresses and outrageous scenes! | | 13. | Comments by thetenken [Rating: 8/10]
A darker drama that was helped by the performances of the main roles. The ending kinda faltered a little, but a well-done drama nonetheless. | | 14. | Comments by dannyboy [Rating: 8/10]
Connection with someone you truly loved can never be broken. | | 15. | Comments by yt [Rating: 7/10]
not bad! | | 16. | Comments by murdocknakashima [Rating: 8/10]
looking for this one too ... anyone got a decent copy ... please pm me ... more than willing to trade | | 17. | Comments by Bodhi [Rating: 4/10]
To long and too melodramtic for me. The only reason worth watching is a nice acting job by Suzuki Anne. | | 18. | Comments by MilkyWay [Rating: 6/10]
The first half of the dorama was really good, but after that it got boring and I didn't like the ending either. All I did was thinking "stupid kid..." ^^;
But I loved An and Etsushi in this dorama ^-^ | | 19. | Comments by crimsonRED [Rating: 9/10]
i love the story. i became a fan of Etsushi and Anne Susuki after watching this. | | 20. | Comments by LoveMonster [Rating: 8/10]
(Watched- Episode 1-7) This show has the best opening.. actually I think it was ending.. theme ever. Not just the song which is spirited and passionate, but the series of quick and compelling abstract images that perfectly convey the bittersweet and mature storyline that will unfold. I would have loved this series.. probably adored it.. if I had not been a total fool and happened upon an enormous spoiler that will no doubt tarnish my experience with the rest of this series. Now I just wish for a device allowing selective memory loss so I can restart the journey of this story and watch it the way it was meant to be watched. Learn from my mistake and avoid spoilers at all costs my friends.. I'm going to finish this series eventually anyhow. | | 21. | Comments by Milano [Rating: 8/10]
interesting story. Sad drama, having few tears to spend for. | | 22. | Comments by lynn [Rating: ?/10]
Currently watching...Ep02 | | 23. | Comments by Higashi [Rating: 10/10]
I just love this series. Toyokawa Etsushi's acting was really great in it <3 You should really watch it! | | 24. | Comments by jew_monster [Rating: 9/10]
A storyline and ending that surprised me and made me think. | | 25. | Comments by gqstyle09 [Rating: 7/10]
etsushi and anne were stellar, but yui's character's stupidity disappointed me | | 26. | Comments by kaonashi [Rating: 9/10]
This is a tragic yet wonderful drama with perhaps the best acting performances I've seen in a J-drama, especially by Toyokawa Etsushi, Sano Shiro & Suzuki Anne. I won't recommend this drama since I understand that this may not be to everyone's liking. As for myself, I thought it's was an exceptional drama in every aspect, very well written & beautifully shot in visually stunning scenery. Well, in terms of J-drama, it's a small masterpiece. 9+ | | 27. | Comments by Mali [Rating: 8/10]
Very interesting. Quite unpredictible. The first two episodes are a little boring, but then it becomes really addictable. | | 28. | Comments by k4g0me [Rating: 10/10]
Tragic Love...but iffy ending....nonetheless REALLY good. | | 29. | Comments by maui [Rating: 8/10]
Slow but watchable.Beautiful yet so tragic. | | 30. | Comments by fasix [Rating: ?/10]
L'oiseau bleu / Blue bird | | 31. | Comments by oldasianguy [Rating: 10/10]
Good Show!!! Had a nice atmosphere about it...Great acting ...Great camera work!!!! | | 32. | Comments by rele [Rating: 8/10]
I loved to watch the scenery and story was also ok. | | 33. | Comments by bba1 [Rating: 10/10]
Very good. | | 34. | Comments by aoi_dolphine [Rating: ?/10]
KIV List | | 35. | Comments by pinkokoro [Rating: ?/10]
INCOMPLETE. | | 36. | Comments by hapybrian [Rating: 8/10]
Interesting story, great theme song.
The story is somewhat dark though. | | 37. | Comments by marspeach [Rating: 8/10]
Really nice looking show. At times intense, other times slower. I liked the first half better. The 2nd part was good but slightly forced and it made me uncomfortable. | | 38. | Comments by bettebogart [Rating: 10/10]
An incredible ride of a love story. Epic. Actually, if you like the kind of thing on Lifetime or the Lifetime movie channel, this is like that, only better. The scenery is stunning and a wonderful part of the drama itself. |
|
| Users who voted for this drama (11) |
|---|
| 1. | warren.mcclendon
Has to be the most beautiful, scenic drama of all time. I couldn't give it the greatest drama tag because I don't see the adult couple as hero based on their irresposible behavior. But I loved the little girl in the drama | | 2. | meruchan
I do not think there is another dorama around that can emotionally involve the viewer so well for so long. That's why there is still a popular tour (near Matsumoto) of the town & train station where it was mostly filmed. This dorama has a strong effect that will make you want to watch it again and again. The acting is brilliant. | | 3. | Reggie
It really is a nice dorama to watch. | | 4. | rolland | | 5. | dys199
The best drama that I have ever seen, so unlike the usual everyday drama. The leading actor is so convincing, this drama is nothing but AMAZING! | | 6. | Bluejay
This is such a touching dramatic story, very deep, and it manages to build its drama in such a simple way, but with subtle characters. The travelogue style, in some of the episodes, worked very well. There was a touch of serenity about this show... I'm not sure why, perhaps the quietness of the small town atmosphere and the countryside scenes. It left me with feelings of sadness and thoughtfulness. | | 7. | CtrlV
Amazing, simply amazing. I am deeply touched by this beautiful drama. It is a shame it is not known as well as LV or BL, but I believe this one outranks them. If you find that you have a chance to see this, do not miss it! I have never heard of this drama before, but thankfully I decided to give it a shot. I was hooked since probably as early as the 2nd episode, and could not stop watching. It is unlike any drama I have seen before, in terms of plot. I don't know how much else I could say without revealing anything, so take my advice and watch it for yourself. | | 8. | murdocknakashima
It's roles like the one he had in this drama that solidifies Sano Shiro as the perpetual villain. | | 9. | Keishin | | 10. | boris | | 11. | Higashi
Really really great dorama... you should watch it for sure!! |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
FAQ
Memberlist
Register
Log in
Toyokawa Etsushi
Natsukawa Yui
Sano Shiro
Nagasaku Hiromi
Suzuki Anne
Yamada Maiko
Nakaya Noboru
Maeda Gin
