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Dragon Zakura [ドラゴン桜]

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Drama Details
Title:Dragon Zakura
ドラゴン桜
Telecast:2005-07-08 to 2005-09-16

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TV Station:TBS
Duration:11 Episodes
Viewership:16.41%



Synopsis
Sakuragi Kenji is a destitute lawyer and one-time member of a motorcyle gang trying to guide failing high school students with an average score of 36 into Japan's most prestigious educational institution, Todai.
"If you want to change your life, get into Todai!"
For no other reason than Sakuragi's personal ambition, he has advertised his intention to produce 100 successful Todai applicants from the students of a nearly bankrupt failure of a school.
"If you want to change your life, get into Todai!" He will get them from this lowest of all schools into Japan's number one!!
http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Dragon_Zakura

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Soundtrack and Theme Songs (1)
1. Realize [Melody]

Actor/Actress Cast (22)
Abe Hiroshi 阿部寛Abe Hiroshi
阿部寛

Sakuragi Kenji
桜木健二
Hasegawa Kyoko 長谷川京子Hasegawa Kyoko
長谷川京子

Ino Mamako 
井野真マ子
Yamashita Tomohisa 山下智久Yamashita Tomohisa
山下智久

Tajima Yuusuke
矢島勇介
Nagasawa Masami 長澤まさみNagasawa Masami
長澤まさみ

Mizuno Naomi 
水野直美
Koike Teppei 小池徹平Koike Teppei
小池徹平

Ogata Hideki 
緒方英喜
Aragaki Yui 新垣結衣Aragaki Yui
新垣結衣

Kousaka Yoshino 
香坂よしの
Nakao Akiyoshi 中尾明慶Nakao Akiyoshi
中尾明慶

Okuno Ichirou 
奥野一郎
Saeko サエコSaeko
サエコ

Kobayashi Maki 
小林麻紀
Nogiwa Yoko 野際陽子Nogiwa Yoko
野際陽子

Tatsuno Yuriko 
龍野百合子
Saitou Yosuke 斉藤洋介Saitou Yosuke
斉藤洋介

Vice-Principal Kondou
David Ito デビット伊東David Ito
デビット伊東

Teacher Ochiai Masanao
Andou Ryouji 安藤亮司Andou Ryouji
安藤亮司

Teacher
Tsukiyama Mayumi 築山万有美Tsukiyama Mayumi
築山万有美

Teacher
Ishino Mako 石野真子Ishino Mako
石野真子

Mrs. Yajima
Miho Jun 美保純Miho Jun
美保純

Mrs. Mizuno
Mizutani Momosuke 水谷百輔Mizutani Momosuke
水谷百輔

Okuno Jirou
Kaneda Akio 金田明夫Kaneda Akio
金田明夫

Teacher Kawaguchi Hiroshi
Kobayashi Susumu 小林すすむKobayashi Susumu
小林すすむ

Teacher Ain Shuutarou
Yazawa Shin 矢沢心Yazawa Shin
矢沢心

Yamamoto Nozomi
Karahashi Mitsuru 唐橋充Karahashi Mitsuru
唐橋充

Sawamatsu Yasushi
Kitamura Eiki 北村栄基Kitamura Eiki
北村栄基

Guest student in Todai
Hirota Masahiro 広田 雅裕Hirota Masahiro
広田 雅裕

Shuumeikan Student
  

Related Links (1)
1. Official Website

Drama Reviews (35)
!!WARNING!!
The review section may contain spoilers! Please understand
that you may find out about this drama's endings and plots!


1. decent [Rating: 4/10]
abe hiroshi is ok. ending was disappointing.
Reviewed by shozen on 30 September 2005
2. Dragon Zakura: Review! [Rating: 9/10]
Alrighty, honestly, I thought that Dragon Zakura was a pretty good drama. Yet, again, there are similiarities from other dramas, but I never base my reviews on similarities with dramas that I've already watched. Dragon Zakura has an interesting beginning. It's just so much of a coincidence that something from the beginning of the drama is repeated at the end. It's testing your memory, so beware XD

As far as the development of the plot...I thought that a lot of problems that happened was pretty odd. I understand the poverty part. Tokyo University seem to be emphasized a lot in this drama. It teaches you a lesson, too. If you do not like society's rules, create your own laws [that are still justified and right in your opinion].

Yamapi is the main reason why I wanted to watch it, then Koike Teppei caught my eyes...and also, Saeko was really cute XDD I thought that the lawyer was enjoyable to watch~ I reccommend it! Well, to those that don't mind similiarities from other dramas and wants to watch something pretty touching.
Reviewed by aeri on 18 October 2005
3. ~Pretty GoOd~~~ [Rating: 10/10]
That's a very nice dorama....................The cast, performance, thier ways of acting is pretty nice, i LOVE it so much............In addition, this drama also taught me many many things, including plenty ways of studying............................Watch THIS, guys!!!!!U won't be regret!!!!!!(I assure!!!).....
Reviewed by echo-Shan on 19 October 2005
4. Pretty new perspectives about education and teachi [Rating: 9/10]
Well, I never expected this school drama would go so deep into the reality about education and hierachy system in the society. Just like others, I expected another replica of variety show like setting and a pleasing ending to make everybody happy. That's why it's such a great surprise to see Abe tortured the students recklessly.

I used to be kinda optimist, probably influenced by GTO, teacher should always comfort the students and compliment them. But it is proven to be just as extreme as purely discipline and punishment. Especially when students are in higher grades, it is a must to let them taste the real life other than isolating them with just beautiful dreams and ideology. We still have to face the reality some day, no matter how great our dreams are.

That's why I appreciate nearly all Abe said in the drama, especially this one:

"THE BEST TEACHER SHOULD PROVIDE LEAST SUPPORT AND LET HIS (HER) STUDENTS TO LEARN ABOUT SELF-RELIANCE!"
Reviewed by Gabinwong on 17 November 2005
5. Fun fun fun [Rating: 9/10]
Dont miss this addictive and delightful drama!
Reviewed by Eve on 11 February 2006
6. Like the learning methods! [Rating: 7/10]
Abe Hiroshi just carries this show through brilliantly! With all the quirky teachers and nice effective learning techniques (not necessarily new but unusual for this aspect of 'education' to be portrayed), this show was nicely built around a more specific plot compared with other typical teacher-helps-each-student-in-the-class dramas with far more realism than usual. All-in-all, a pretty decent drama with a good performance put up by the rest of the cast.
Reviewed by Shindou on 13 March 2006
7. not bad. [Rating: ?/10]
its pretty dull but at least there's yamap and teppei to see!
Reviewed by JAP FREAK on 17 March 2006
8. too slow, boring and... it's bad [Rating: 4/10]
dorama about some students who're trying to enter japan no 1 university (Todai) is an attractive theme. But... when I watch this dorama, it's like watching GTO in different version.

I give rating : 4 because Yamapi's on it.
Reviewed by andra mega on 27 March 2006
9. High School Story: Not Abe's Best, but Can Still M [Rating: 7/10]
I wouldn't say this was one of his best roles, but it was still an OK drama. Yamashita plays another quiet cool guy, Koike is peppy and the rest are also trying to get into Tokyo University. The concept seemed good, but it had some flaws with the acting and the story actually having a grip on the audience. It's a nice suttle drama, but not one of Abe's best. Shame because Abe Hiroshi is dang tall, dang funny, and has talent that can sore so far!
Some of the episodes were good though, like the way they learned things with each other, and the high expert teachers, but having that small love traingle and not so dramatic yet too serene ending was a draw back. The tale is a little predictable but nice as a quiet drama to watch.
Reviewed by Kirari Ililah on 14 April 2006
10. Not as convincing as it wants to be... [Rating: 2/10]
I hated Abe Hiroshi's character in this drama. Its not because he was always giving "tough love" to his students, but because he wasnt very good at it. He would just end up preaching to his students, and most of his self righteous speeches were either annoying or not convincing at all. I guess it could be attributed to poor writing. Without spoiling the ending, I'd have to say that it was one of the worst endings ever. The whole story didnt feel like it had a climactic conclusion and made you feel like you just wasted nearly 11 hours of your life by watching this. Avoid this show at all cost. I just wish someone told me those words sooner.
Reviewed by Grim Eyes on 26 April 2006
11. If you study hard, you can get into Todai [Rating: 10/10]
It's a really great drama. I like the act of Yamapi and the others. Although the drama is like a mix of GTO and Gokusen, but not really that. I think the lawyer-idea was perfect and Abe Hiroshi played Sakuragi-sensei very well.

And it is true: There isn't a stupid student, only if they believe they are stupid.
And I don't understand, why parents thought they are stupid. They weren't only they believed it.
Reviewed by Andro on 21 May 2006
12. Sequel? [Rating: 10/10]
I enjoy watching this and hope there is a sequel. Would like to see if the three who didn't make it to Todai what happens to them and the one who didn't go becomes a lawyer.
Reviewed by Keone on 11 July 2006
13. recommended drama... [Rating: 8/10]
Yes, the drama is enjoyable, definitely worth watching it.
Reviewed by CWZ on 31 July 2006
14. fun [Rating: 10/10]
I have a weakness for high school dramas, or , actually, school dramas in general. I think the advice given in this drama is very good and it focuses on friendship and working together. cute drama. liked it very much.
Reviewed by noodlefreak on 10 August 2006
15. a great drama〜! [Rating: 8/10]
it inspire me and let me know what will do in the future
Reviewed by elvis on 15 August 2006
16. abe hiroshi. best actor ever [Rating: 10/10]
almost every drama dat has abe hiroshi is amazing. he makes u laugh all da time even if hes in a serious mood, plus dragon zakura definately makes me want to study harder now! esp wif those tricks they teach u there!!
Reviewed by >anca< on 3 September 2006
17. Funny [Rating: 8/10]
Basically this is a comedy drama. I find it very funny. Maybe many of you will say that this is just GTO part 2, but this has its own charm i think. and maybe better than GTO in some way. And Abe just the right actor to play the main role. I've seen a lot of his drama lately and I like the way he intreprete the character.
Reviewed by ando_aja on 13 September 2006
18. UNKNOWN RATING.. it's hard to decide! [Rating: ?/10]
The beginning of the drama was good, because the problem was eyecatching. However, the episodes moved slowly and now that I think back none of them are very defining (that is, except for the beginning and end of course) because each episode was pretty much the same with the same levels of excitement. I would've stopped watching this drama maybe halfway through if I wasn't curious about the results, or wasn't a Yamapi & Teppei fangirl..
The ending was an okay, except I think because the episodes went on slowly the ending was a bit rushed to get to a conclusion.
As for the parts where romance were hinted, it was really fruitless because it was never solved. Mizuno and Yajima seemed to have something going on and also not at the same time; and Yajima didn't really seem to love Yoshino at all - but even when Yoshino stated that she pretended it didn't matter when Yajima got worked up over Mizuno's problems but she was actually bothered by it there was no solution and her statement was brushed off quickly and without emotion. I am still confused as to whether Yajima likes anyone at all and what of the two girls' feelings?
For Sakuragi, his speech, to me, was powerful at the beginning - but then it became that there were too many speeches throughout per episode and I even got tired of listening. When he was recruiting his students, besides Yajima the rest seemed to have just popped out of no where and suddenly felt like joining when it was obvious the whole school was really enraged by Sakuragi's proposal. I'm still asking "What changed the others' minds?" Their reasons on why they wanted to join the class were very vague, and I find it a rough edge that didn't let the story move smoothly and logically.
Furthermore the conflict between the twins wasn't solved and was pretty much left hanging because the fact that Jiro failed Todai and his brother didn't did not serve as a satisfying ending. I mean, WHAT ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS AND RELATIONSHIP? What HAPPENED?
I was also astounded at the fact as to why Maki and Ogata were the ones to fail the entrance exam. Maki had all the best scores in the training class throughout the year! Why did Yajima make it? He didn't have very good scores and nor did he improve as much as the others. He even had a broken arm when he was writing! And didn't Ichirou suffer so badly during the exam from the stomach ache that he could barely write?
Anyway, the good thing about this drama was that when the characters were happy, I was happy; when they were about to take the exams I was apprehensive for them.. these were feelings that also had me clinging on to the characters. The music was good too.
Reviewed by xkizoku on 25 September 2006
19. Your Typical School Drama [Rating: 7/10]
Here we have another school drama that focuses on reforming “bad” kids, but unlike the more popular Gokusen and GTO series, this one deals with the reality that is life. In a very harsh, yet effective way, Sakuragi Kenji (played by Abe Hiroshi) reminds the six students of his special class that idiots are cheated every step of the way, and because they’re idiots there is nothing they can do about it.

The storyline deals with the system of society in which the most educated, no matter socially impaired, are cherished, and the stupid, no matter how kind, are frowned upon. As a teacher myself, I found Sakuragi-sensei’s style of teaching really interesting… and at times absurd. It’s fun to watch the cause/effects in this drama.

I was disappointed in the end. The two students who failed were the two I wanted most to pass. It seems that the powers that be wanted to stay away from the cliche´ ending where everyone succeeds and lives happily ever after, but I thought, after watching their suffering, that perhaps this cliche´ would suffice. Guess not.
Reviewed by Wynter on 6 November 2006
20. Yikes! o_O [Rating: 7/10]
As an educator, this program was excruciating to watch at times. Listening to adults berate and insult teenagers in order to make them work harder is painful -- teachers in my country would be subject to dismissal for like conduct -- and yet here in America we coddle and baby our teens to an extent that academically we are a world-wide laughing-stock. I'm torn. This wasn't a lot of fun for me, but at the same time it was difficult to turn away. I'm a Nakao Akiyoshi fan, so I stuck with it. I think that others will appreciate the drama, also.
Reviewed by toykimura on 3 December 2006
21. Cool [Rating: 7/10]
I learned many things from this drama ^^
Reviewed by KAITO KED on 2 February 2007
22. One of the better dramas Ive watched [Rating: 9/10]
I didn't have high expectations for this drama actually (maybe thats why it came out expectantly better). Currently having a 2 years break from school, so kind of missed the studying and exam environment. This drama kind of remind me of such times... and it is a very unique drama. I wouldnt think it as something like GTO or Gokusen (Gokusen 1 & 2 are disappointing). And i do not really think that there are much exam tips from the drama, so don't bother if u are just looking to score well...
Reviewed by l0nEr on 16 March 2007
23. THAT DAMN TRUMPET PLAYER. [Rating: 7/10]
I think Abe Hiroshi is one of the best JDrama actors out there so it always pleases me to see him in something. This is a slightly inspirational tale if a bit weighed down by some of the students. Particularly that annoying trumpet player. He brings down everything he's in.
Reviewed by ninjavsself on 30 May 2007
24. Real School Drama [Rating: 10/10]
Of all school dramas I've seen, this by far, is the only drama that gives you real information about school, which is studying techniques. And it sticks so much to realism, even sometimes you think it's down to pessimism, that this is the kind of advices one really needs to survive life. What people might call painful reality. But of course, this drama is also full of hope. Unlike false hopes other school dramas portray. Excellent drama. I can't wait to read its manga.
Abe Hiroshi was great as Sakuragi. And the actors as the 6 students were as great. I hope they create a sequel. But I don't think they'll do that.
Reviewed by moeru_h on 1 June 2007
25. i love this dRama!!! [Rating: 10/10]
i love this drama because it taught me many ways how to study... and i LoVe tePpei!!!!
Reviewed by saDguRL20 on 12 June 2007
26. amazing [Rating: ?/10]
This drama is very good, its inspirational, informative and heartwarming.. abe hiroshi-san is a very good actor and that role suited him best.
Reviewed by mikomiko123 on 17 July 2007
27. Zakura drags on [Rating: 5/10]
An ill-conceived high school drama in which teachers act like asylum patients and students suffer an epidemic of bad hairdos. The endless lectures are taken right out of the Idiot's Guide to Tokyo-U Entrance Exam, and if they succeed in activating an idiot's brain, they're more likely to deactivate yours.
Reviewed by shari on 11 September 2007
28. ...::::: Dragon Zakura ::::..... [Rating: 6/10]
Another learning and teaching base dorama...
quite interesting...but somehow it started to become slow...
however, it is useful for those who wants to prepare for their coming examination...haha~~
besides, many great caster~!
probably not one of my best Jdrama...huhu
very dissappointed with the ending....ARGGGHH~~!!
Reviewed by afiqwitri on 19 September 2007
29. ドラゴン桜 Dragon Zakura [Rating: 8/10]
It actually..kinda..gives you more feeling and more force on studying more..keke..The actors/actresses were cool,so was the setting and the plot line~
Reviewed by saru92 on 5 October 2007
30. Average [Rating: 6/10]
I thought that this drama reflected how much emphasis Japan places on education. Unfortunately, I can't agree less with the way this drama has made it seem that getting into Tokyo Uni is the key to everyone's success. And the fact that they just want to get into the uni, never mind what course they're going to study and whether they will like it or not, gets a thumbs down from me. Thumbs up though, for the creative studying techniques employed.

I found Hiroshi Abe's character to be a cross between GTO and Gokusen. He acted the character well, but I do not like the character himself. Half the time I did not agree with his speeches, and the other half I had no idea what he was trying to preach about. Hasegawa Kyoko's character is very much like Yamaguchi Kumiko of Gokusen in the sense that she loves her students too much, but minus the kick-ass attitude. The six students acted well though I found Yamapi to be a bit of a bore. Saeko and Koike were my favourites because of their energy and cheer. I hated the rest of the annoying teachers and the irritating Principal; they were probably put in for comedy but their antics were a big turn off.

I actually thought the ending was good because it was realistic. And although the final speech contrasted to the whole idea of 'Todai = success', I appreciated that they emphasized too that life isn't all about studying, and that other options are available.
Reviewed by Limes on 6 November 2007
31. Is Todai the only option? [Rating: 5/10]
From the start I was engaged with Abe Hiroshi's cool attitude, but he didn't come across like any kind of lawyer. His character is a little like Ueda from Trick, but less quirky and super confident in his ability to snap the students and teachers into shape. It starts to annoy a little.

Hiroshi's character presses the students into studying for Todai University because no one from the school thinks about going, and the school he tried to help is considered an bad one. Reality is hard on some, but Sakuragi Kenji makes it clear Todai is the only option by calling the students stupid and cheated out of their futures. And because of this no one wants to join his class. He has to "make a deal" with Tajima Yuusuke by paying off his family debt in order for him to join. Yoshino, Maki and Hideki join afterwards for no real reason. Masami's character joins later because of her fears about her life after high school.

Hasegawa Kyoko's acting isn't any different from her other roles.

Masami, Yui and Saeko are all pretty, but maybe one of them could have been enough for the show? They developed Masami's character better too.

A nice character change for Nogiwa Yoko, who's spent a lot of time in kimonos in most of her dramas.

This drama isn't a drama; more like a motivational series for high schoolers to go to college. Watch it if you really have nothing else. Pretty boring.
Reviewed by bba1 on 26 April 2008
32. YAY [Rating: 10/10]
well, i've seen a lot of school-dramas until now but none of them struck me leit d.z. did. In most doramas I missed the link to reality... most seemed really fake. but here you have a nice view into japanese society and into the educational system. The system of my homecountry (germany) is very different from the japanese so I cannot compare anything. I just can say that those "entrance exams" seem to be very important in japan and that the right choice of school is so important that it affects your whole future life. in germany its not at all like that. everyone who finishes highschool and passes the final exams can go to university 8ok, there are limits in terms of which grades you have, but its not as strict as in japan).

I really think it is a well-made drama, with good links to reality. the ending can be seen as disappointing, but those who have seen it must know - as i do - that it had to be link that, otherwise it wouldn't have been realistic.

another point ist: good-looking guys :D I only want to mention yamapi :D:D interesting role, he had the right age when he war starring in this drama. and teppei ... gosh nice hairstyle ;)
Reviewed by MintCeres on 10 September 2008
33. Falls Short [Rating: 5/10]
Typical drama where a teacher inspires students to work hard and be successful in school and life. It was refreshing to see Abe Hiroshi tell them about the harsh reality instead of the usual "inspiring words/be positive" routine which is usually seen in most of these kind of dramas. Because what he says in the drama reflects what it happening in the real world. However, it does get boring after a while. First few episodes were interesting but halfway through the drama, ended up fast forwading most it. Disappointing ending too. For a more satisfying drama, go for Gokusen or GTO. Watch this if you're a Abe Hiroshi, Yamashita Tomoshia or Koike Teppei fan.
Reviewed by doublemask on 6 October 2008
34. interesting [Rating: 9/10]
especially if you are still in high school or even in school and you need motivation, watching this drama is pretty motivational
Reviewed by mr_dreamboy on 27 November 2008
35. Disappointing [Rating: 4/10]
this drama is very disappointing...doesn't have a good ending...hope they'll make an SP for this to justify the theme...
Reviewed by kurtzky on 1 December 2008

Comments From Users (340)
!!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 ginger ale [Rating: 10/10]
I love teen dramas of underdogs who end up on top of the world, and this one really rocked. Powerhouse cast of Abe Hiroshi and jidol Yamapi, Misami Nagasawa and Aragaki Yui. Hey I wanna get into Toudai too!
2. Comments by Andro [Rating: 10/10]
Almost like GTO mixed with Gokusen, but not really. I liked it very much. The charakters and the storyline was really good. And Yamapi is so cool.
3. Comments by atheon [Rating: 9/10]
Sept 2005: Im goin to hv my final yr exam while watching this drama, thats why this drama grabbed my attention. This show is completely different from those other typical school dramas, the teacher dont have to solve gang fights, drugs, problem students etc etc (only plays a samll part), his only main goal is to send his students to Todai. This show really inspired me to study harder for my exam....well......
4. Comments by waffer [Rating: ?/10]
Still watching. Very Funny drama and the message is pretty straightforward.
5. Comments by Kat-Tun [Rating: 10/10]
Well, it's good so far...
6. Comments by mallepa [Rating: 9/10]
Interesting story~ very touching... and Yamapi is hot :D
7. Comments by Amika [Rating: 8/10]
very interesting way to teach a group of hopeless students to get into Tokyo University..
8. Comments by yamada_taro [Rating: 10/10]
Most realistic school drama I've seen. Sakurai sensei gives some great advice on studying and life itself. The students are very well characterized, and I've become rather attached to Yajima and Mizuno. ^^; Not one episode I've been bored, so this is a definite recommendation. The message that they're trying to give us is to 'ganbare' on your goals and I must say, I feel inspired to do so now.
9. Comments by rikastar [Rating: 9/10]
Interesting plot~ I feel like I really learn something new, not so much about what they studied, but about the university system ,especially Todai's, in Japan. This is the first time I like Abe Hiroshi in a dorama, he was really cool in this show. All 6 students were pretty spunky/cute in their own way. My favourites are Naobu (Masami) and Hideki (Teppei)~ ^_^ This is nothing like Gokusen imo, the only common things they have is probably the school room setting and Johnny's members. :P
10. Comments by xhidex33 [Rating: 7/10]
Sort of a typical school drama. Except it's Todai.
11. Comments by lynn [Rating: 9/10]
Download
12. Comments by adrxuan [Rating: 10/10]
Superb show!XD...

the idea is good...i kinda lik the ending too...:D
13. Comments by nagaioyasumi [Rating: 7/10]
7.5. Rather good. The ending was predictable, but they weren't going for big surprises so it's okay. Abe Hiroshi charmed my socks off, but that's nothing new. ^-^ Nakao Akiyoshi gets my vote for being the cutest in this!
14. Comments by princess [Rating: 4/10]
I personally didn't really like it that much.
I thought the ending wasn't that good.
But I guess it's a must watch if you're a Yamapi + Teppei fan. =)
15. Comments by Dorobou [Rating: 9/10]
I never thought studying can be this fun, good drama, great concept.
16. Comments by momo_chan [Rating: 10/10]
yamiP cho-- kakoii!!!!!
17. Comments by Kendesu [Rating: 10/10]
It's really good and also interesting how the testing system is like...
18. Comments by maemo [Rating: 9/10]
Loooove it! Basically like Gokusen, but that's okay. Abe Hiroshi's great. The plot's very unreal, but oh well.
19. Comments by kinkitsuyo [Rating: 9/10]
I enjoy this one most so far! Must-watch if u like Abe and P!
20. Comments by jpnz-pride [Rating: 10/10]
the #1 drama in summer!!
21. Comments by HavoCSkieR [Rating: 8/10]
- Good story - entertaining characters - unique teaching methods
22. Comments by V(~^____^~)S [Rating: 6/10]
pretty unoriginal and predictable, but I still enjoy it untheless (mainly cuz Teppei's in it)
23. Comments by AngelXing [Rating: 9/10]
I loved this drama isn't mainly because it basically consisted of almost all my favorite actors/actress of all time. But I really think Abe Hiroshi and Hasegawa Kyoko did a great job. You kinda think its similiar to Gokusen or something like that, but it's not. I liked how the students had this 'never-give-up' attitude...a good drama
24. Comments by watari [Rating: 9/10]
Finished watching! It shows how poor doing students manage to get into Toudai University. Miracles can happen. I wish this drama is shown last year..haha^^ because i could just pick up a few tips or two before my major exam..
25. Comments by yume [Rating: 7/10]
An interesting plot with some fairly good scenarios...but overall the ending was disappointing and the middle moments were lacking in UMPH.
26. Comments by twentytrees [Rating: 8/10]
it makes me want to study and work hard after i watched it.
27. Comments by junkpro11 [Rating: 7/10]
i like the theme song! the plot is ok..different from other dramas...has good casting as well
28. Comments by echo-Shan [Rating: 10/10]
NICE~~~This dorama had taught me many many things!!!!!!BEST!!!
29. Comments by shiroi-chan [Rating: 8/10]
I think the drama motivates one to study, but at the same time, I didn't exactly like the ending, because while it might not be a bad ending, and is somewhat happy, the way it ends SO realistically kind of left one in a depressed mood.
30. Comments by cheery [Rating: 8/10]
A very interesting story. Makes me feel like watching the next disc after every disc! The story really potrays how much hard work is needed to put in for something that everybody can achieve.
31. Comments by aeri [Rating: 9/10]
Alrighty, honestly, I thought that Dragon Zakura was a pretty good drama. Yet, again, there are similiarities from other dramas, but I never base my reviews on similarities with dramas that I've already watched. Dragon Zakura has an interesting beginning. It's just so much of a coincidence that something from the beginning of the drama is repeated at the end. It's testing your memory, so beware XD

As far as the development of the plot...I thought that a lot of problems that happened was pretty odd. I understand the poverty part. Tokyo University seem to be emphasized a lot in this drama. It teaches you a lesson, too. If you do not like society's rules, create your own laws [that are still justified and right in your opinion].

Yamapi is the main reason why I wanted to watch it, then Koike Teppei caught my eyes...and also, Saeko was really cute XDD I thought that the lawyer was enjoyable to watch~ I reccommend it! Well, to those that don't mind similiarities from other dramas and wants to watch something pretty touching.
32. Comments by Kirari Ililah [Rating: 7/10]
Abe Hiroshi has better work, this one wasn't layed out too perfectly. The concept sounded nice, but the acting had a bit of trouble with following the story and the love inerest made it become a little boring. Though it's stilla nice quaint drama.
33. Comments by AerialAsian [Rating: 8/10]
Awesome....Very. Awesome...Very Awesome indeed...Lol i cant comment anything else :(
34. Comments by TimThein [Rating: 8/10]
I like the actors in this drama and the studying techniques taught to the students are interesting.
35. Comments by aik0 [Rating: 8/10]
A nice comedy about high school. Nice charaterization. The kids are sharp as well as the bunch of teachers. 阿部寛 performs well for his mysterious yet capable role. 長谷川京子 is a bit overacting and sounds annoying at times. Having a peach face, she should keep her long hair instead. A nice mix of comedy, examcram knowledge, life lessons, friendships and business (getting the job done)
36. Comments by Prongs [Rating: 10/10]
Great !!!!!!!!!!
Another Yamapi's best drama
37. Comments by ct_subang [Rating: 7/10]
drama abt the hardships of being a low-class student trying to enter the Japan-class top U TODAI...kinda hilarious...
38. Comments by Frey [Rating: 9/10]
Yah, this drama is good ^^ yamapi is funny :p
39. Comments by enen_shun [Rating: 9/10]
DragonZ's great ne !!! interesting plot they've got ~~ it's amazing to see the fun ways to study .. lolx ~~ great casts too !!
40. Comments by krazeealiens [Rating: 10/10]
love it... gurls are hot,cute,great actress no annoy characters... guys HOT, cute, adorable, soo damn cute... lol great acting... plus love hiroshi... love his acting from trick 1, 2, 3 hehe
41. Comments by romi510 [Rating: 8/10]
Nice manga adapation. As usual, Abe Hiroshi gives a solid performance. Entertaining drama.
42. Comments by qilver [Rating: ?/10]
I finished up to episode 5, hardsubbed. Still waiting for the rest to be subbed off d-addicts.
so far, i really enjoy this series, Abe and Hasekyo were fantastic. And Manami Nagasawa is so cute.
43. Comments by natzumi [Rating: 8/10]
Most of the scenes took place in the classroom, but I thought it did a fair job making the drama interesting.
44. Comments by teru_teru_bouzu [Rating: ?/10]
it was umm.. interesting.. reminded me alot of Gokusen though.... Just with kinda a different storyline....
45. Comments by Buchou [Rating: 8/10]
Great cast, intersting storyline and characters, nice setting - all in all it's definitely worth a watch!
46. Comments by syu77 [Rating: 9/10]
for me its an ok drama...
47. Comments by Aunty Coco [Rating: ?/10]
Just bought
48. Comments by norani [Rating: 10/10]
Wonderful j-dorama. Especially Abe Hiroshi and a very talented young Yamashita Tomohisa.
49. Comments by Tiffany [Rating: 9/10]
To tell the truth, I was a bit skeptical when I first started watching this series since it seemed to be following the ever-popular 'high school drama' recipie. However, after watching this, I found this dorama was absolutely wonderful! It managed to steer clear of most of the high school cliches and instead provided a new, interesting, and raw perspectice on getting into college.
50. Comments by buzzybug [Rating: 9/10]
this drama give me a lot of motivation!
51. Comments by moonchyld [Rating: ?/10]
^^
52. Comments by icpmat [Rating: 7/10]
like the lines of Abe Hiroshi. don't like YamaP's character in this series. too typical, predictable of a character
53. Comments by Aisling [Rating: 9/10]
It`s similar to Gokusen somewhow but still has its own style I like the teacher and his ways ^^ of doing things but of course I love Yamapi better ^__^ the rebel guy type suit him too!!
54. Comments by ainangst [Rating: 7/10]
Abe is GOOD. YamaP is GOOD.
surely 7 isn't good enuff for them but i'm watching it with bad subs :sweat:
couldn't understand lah
55. Comments by geezbee [Rating: 9/10]
Another teacher drama! No..not Gokusen or GTO...but Dragon..Zakura!! I really enjoyed this drama as well. The difference between this drama and other similar dramas as mentioned b4 is that..there is no "violence". Yes "violence" as demonstrated by the Gangster Teacher (Takeshi) in GTO and the successor of a Yakuza Clan (Nakama Yukie) I almost thought that it was going to follow in the footsteps of these dramas when the 1st ep aired...when Abe Hiroshi's character approached the gangsters (who wanted to beat up Yamapi) Before you guess that he was going to beat the hell out of the gangsters, he was actually seeking directions instead! Haha..this scene really made me laugh..this was sort of done deliberately I suppose. :)

So what is this drama abt? Basically it teaches pple how to study and go to the most prestigious university in Japan..Todai!! Ok, so I guess I enjoyed this drama...but you wouldn't understand much unless u are in japan rite??
56. Comments by tInoltin [Rating: 9/10]
Great!!! Good to motivate students to study!
57. Comments by natni [Rating: 8/10]
light drama but interesting
58. Comments by Yama_Pi [Rating: 10/10]
Very good dorama!!
I love actors select. They all fits very good in this dorama.
It's deff. MUST WATCH dorama!!
59. Comments by Ozmek [Rating: 7/10]
゚蘰
60. Comments by nienna [Rating: 10/10]
Best show ever!!! I was so caught up with the show that i forgot all about the time. Wish there was a sequel to this EXCELLENT drama.
Interesting way of education...wish my school would teach me this kind of things shown in tis drama. then, sku won't b a boring place anymore.
61. Comments by sahabat9 [Rating: 7/10]
although it's all about school and exams, i do like it..:) coz it reminds me a lot on my school days, back then....

and yes..yamapi n koike, cho kawaii..
62. Comments by shadyiela [Rating: 10/10]
nice to see if my students can be strong n confidents like them...even they are not smart enough
63. Comments by aki_07 [Rating: 9/10]
Interesting episode one after another, cute students. I've learned some new knowledge as well... some scenes are too unreal though.
64. Comments by Kotori [Rating: 9/10]
It's sooooo good!!! I love P in that!!! But my favourite is Teppei!!! He is sooo cute in this!! His best job as far. And I just love the story! *-*
65. Comments by tk_iva [Rating: 9/10]
a really interesting show..really motivating...maybe i can try watching it everytime before a major exam.. hehe..yamapi super kakkoii in this show!!
66. Comments by polarp [Rating: 10/10]
anyone who wants to get some extra motivation for studying should definitely watch this. the story ended a little too fast, but the ending was unexpeted and satisfying
67. Comments by kneehard [Rating: 10/10]
Great drama!! Although I've watched plenty of dramas with school plots especially concerning delinquent students, this one is definitely different from the rest. I love Hiroshi Abe, and I like his protrayal of Sakuragi Kenji. And Kamiyama and Teppei are really cute in this one!!
68. Comments by Tsuyoshi's girl [Rating: 7/10]
great show a nd a really nice theme song!
69. Comments by butterLiLy [Rating: 7/10]
A pretty cool series and it does teaches you some stuff about life.
70. Comments by hitokiri333 [Rating: 8/10]
def a fun drama show to watch, almost as good as GTO.
71. Comments by KameShun2o9 [Rating: 9/10]
Luhv it! Yamapi is real cute...and educationally I can really learn a lot from this drama!! I suck at study skills...
72. Comments by icebaby028 [Rating: 6/10]
I never really liked Abe Hiroshi but I have to admit that he is a pretty good actor. I think he did a good job in this drama however, I don't like the drama itself. It started off being a good story but it ended up being really boring and repetitive by like the 4th episode. The only good thing about this drama was YamaP but I felt like he needed a sidekick and Koike Teppei really wasn't the one to do it. He's not strong enough as an actor and definiately didn't do much for the drama itself. I liked Hasegawa Kyoko in My Madonna with Tackey but she was so annoying in this one. I guess it's also just her character. I'd say that with the whole school thing...I still like Gokusen 2 the best.
73. Comments by fuyuke [Rating: 9/10]
yamapi XDDD
74. Comments by MrNiceGuy [Rating: 8/10]
It reminds me the time for preparing entrance exam to university in my country. It likes hell!
75. Comments by IniQx [Rating: 8/10]
I thought it was one of those typical school-themed dramas again, but I was wrong! This drama's not about rebellious students (although somewhere near), but on a lawyer's attempt to bring 6 students from one of Japan's lousiest high school to Japan's top university - Todai. The drama went into details about Todai's entry requirements, exam tactics etc. Ahhh! It makes me wanna go back to school all over again!
76. Comments by Shindou [Rating: 7/10]
Began with a relatively interesting story with topics on sociology and the structure of society followed by some great learning techniques. The story takes on a different direction though towards the latter half and the ending was surprising realistic for once. The cast was pretty decent although you may want to watch something else first if you've just recently watched a school drama :P
77. Comments by littlemissfab [Rating: 5/10]
Typical highschool drama.. Watched it because of Koikke and Pi chan
78. Comments by wai [Rating: 8/10]
Interesting ways of teaching and learning~
79. Comments by Ushiroyubi [Rating: 5/10]
um... I love Abe Hiroshi, but this script was um...
80. Comments by heimu [Rating: 9/10]
Well, at least I'm planning to watch this dorama once more. :)
81. Comments by mieki [Rating: 9/10]
Wow. It was so nice. Everyone learned different lessons to get on with their lives. And they all worked super hard to get into Todai, even though only three of them made it. It was really interesting and Yamapi and Teppei did really well!
82. Comments by v1olet [Rating: 9/10]
interesting drama for students, teachers, and parents. the story tells us about practical learning & teaching technics. i love the ending, not to ideal, quite realistic. it doesn't matters who win or loose, the effort throughout the year deserves appreciation.
83. Comments by K.T.Tran [Rating: 10/10]
Very good drama. Its got its funny moments, but its also a bit serious towards school....in a way i guess. After watching it, honestly, makes me feel like i should study harder, smarter and what not. If bakas can get into Todai, then I can get into the school i want too ne.
84. Comments by Di@na [Rating: 8/10]
OH Very funny drama about lazy students *ahahaha* Well, it's intersting to see how their new "teacher" finally change their attitude ..
Yamapi's role of a macho doesn't REALLY suit to him *lol* I think he was cuter in Nobuta wo produce ^^ but teppei is kawaii like always.
85. Comments by minitotoro [Rating: 10/10]
omg!! abe hiroshi ... now nakamasan and abesan both are teachers =] who could've thought w/ trick
teppeichan yamapi masamichan
great acting on the part of all cast members
enjoyed it alot!
86. Comments by cutesawada [Rating: 7/10]
I finished with a friend today! One sentence: YamaP is HOT!!!!
87. Comments by MissMonika [Rating: 9/10]
This is a really great story. Not your average high school drama. All the actors were great in this. This opened me up more to Yamashita Tomohisa. I can kinda see why there's so much hype over him now.
88. Comments by Nekota [Rating: ?/10]
A good drama!!! It's funny and make reflection on my own mind.
89. Comments by k2_the_aoru [Rating: 9/10]
i started actually believing in TOUDAI after i watched this dorama~!!
90. Comments by gomibagu [Rating: 8/10]
Very Entertaining.
91. Comments by Eve [Rating: 9/10]
Delicious!!
Hiroshi rocks, the students try their best and get set for one inspiring school year! Todai or bust!!
92. Comments by Paine_kun [Rating: 5/10]
I must admit I watched it for YamaPi but I stopped quickly. So typical, "deja-vu". Not really original even if it looked good at first.
Maybe I'll try to watch it completely later...
93. Comments by Ralbol [Rating: 6/10]
Bien moins vide dans le contenu que la majorite des dramas, c'est peut-etre pour cela qu'il m'a mis mal a l'aise : vision trop realiste de la societe. Et le cote classe prepa, bah bof, j'aime pas trop finalement.
94. Comments by Milano [Rating: 8/10]
Nice to see how the story of a class that study hard for an entire year is interesting. Very very original. Maybe not so emotional but I've eaten it in only three days.
95. Comments by terra-kun [Rating: 9/10]
Awesome drama. Started out slooww... but when It ended made me wanted it to go slower. Hot girls too.
96. Comments by InSearchOf [Rating: 9/10]
great drama! annoying as hell teachers/staff... kyoko hasegawa was the most annoying, but hiroshi-san is the best actor!!! masami nagasawa looks yummy too (besides the other girls)!
97. Comments by oberon [Rating: 6/10]
really weak drama, looks a lot like all the other school drama's
98. Comments by mmyy [Rating: 9/10]
This show is surprisingly GOOD! I thought it would be another GTO-ripoff but it's not and it's special in its own way. Watching this gives me a lot of motivation and confidence to do well in my exams too. Very, very helpful drama. XD
99. Comments by Sevenz [Rating: 10/10]
Very funny and inspiring!
100. Comments by x_XJules [Rating: 3/10]
I really love teppei and yamapi.. but this drama wasn't so great. it had a few moments but i wouldn't highly recommend this one.
101. Comments by lovejdorama [Rating: ?/10]
2-DVD, English Sub Avai for Trade
JAPANESE DRAMA & OST
http://www.geocities.com/reddashay/jdorama.html
102. Comments by hurh. [Rating: 7/10]
I was expecting something more lighthearted, but it ended up being pretty serious (but with enough entertainment to keep it interesting). I don't think it's really -that- similar to other school dramas, because they tend to be more idealistic. I think in that sense, this one is from a completely different viewpoint.
I enjoyed the cast and characters a lot. I think that is what I like best about this drama.
103. Comments by Takeya [Rating: 8/10]
Okay storyline with its comedic moments that has a bunch of misfits trying to get into Tokyo Uni. However, it could've been better, but watchable nonetheless.
104. Comments by Kazanko [Rating: ?/10]
Wouldn't have watched if there wasn't YamaPi
105. Comments by JAP FREAK [Rating: 6/10]
so dull. teppei and yamapi ><!!
106. Comments by cwenting [Rating: 8/10]
Not bad!! And I like to see them preparing for their exams~~~A meaningful drama.
107. Comments by whowhatme [Rating: 6/10]
Interesting, but still.. kind of boring? Some very inspiring episodes, but at the same time, too much like a lot of other high school dramas.
108. Comments by littleindigo [Rating: 10/10]
For me, this was a very interesting drama to watch. Most of the dramas I've seen out there have been about nothing but problems that people have in the area of love. However, Dragonzakura brought a fresh new approach to both high-school and civil-service types of dramas.

Rather than dealing with the conflict of people in love, this drama dealt with conflicts of people's dreams, determination, and the obstacles that come from both inside themselves and outside. While at times it may have seemed 'boring' and 'fruitless', the drama overall has a great sense of wholeness if viewed once more.

Not to mention the methods of studying can truly be applied to real life. If the storyline doesn't attract you, you should at least watch for the lessons they teach that can be used for both inside the classroom and outside in real life nowadays.

"Too often we are forced to grow up when disasterous events occur around us. We are forced to grow, forced to change, forced to adapt to a new persona of which we are not ready for. It is at that time we lose sight of our hopes and dreams and continue down the lonely path that is set before us. But once you find the goal that you want in life, hold onto it, and don't let go - it may be your last chance in life to turn yourself into a whole new path of opportunities..."
109. Comments by janjan85 [Rating: ?/10]
Pretty interesting and entertaining
110. Comments by selphie086 [Rating: 7/10]
Quite a cool drama with the examination study techniques. The story plot's abt the same as any other high school drama though.
111. Comments by ueda_neko [Rating: 8/10]
yamapi is cool
112. Comments by Orion [Rating: 8/10]
nagasawa masami kawaii~~
113. Comments by Sailorprinzess [Rating: 8/10]
Even though there are similarities between this and other dramas, I really enjoyed this one. It was interesting, and plus Yampi is in it. That should be enough reason to watch. ^_^
114. Comments by tabana [Rating: 9/10]
Nice story and cast. Comedy and drama, but mostly comedy. You can even get tips to help you study, that's great. :)
115. Comments by CWZ [Rating: 8/10]
Good drama, which teaches the audience how to start fresh in studying and never give in easily.
116. Comments by Lisat1005 [Rating: 9/10]
Yamashita Tomohisa is awesome!! It was definitley an interesting drama gotta give it that!
117. Comments by i love Yamapi ^_^ [Rating: 10/10]
cool cool cool ! hehe ^_^
118. Comments by aiscess [Rating: 9/10]
First High School Dorama that really focuses on studying;)
119. Comments by kaonashi [Rating: 8/10]
A lawyer/teacher engaging his students with somewhat unusual methods, straightforward brutal honesty. This drama's not top notch, Abe Hiroshi's acting's pretty stiff & the ending could've been a bit more powerful. But it's an inspiring story & I liked the moral. One of the best teacher/student drama I've seen.
120. Comments by Shuin [Rating: 9/10]
Interesting story + good cast =)
121. Comments by jica [Rating: 7/10]
It was entertaining, but from a teacher's point of view, I don't know if I liked it that much... they just studied to get into Todai, fast knowledge don't stay long (especially the English studies was a bit so-so....) Anyway, I liked Yamapi, my second drama with him, he was totally different from Akira in Nobuta. He was so cool here, me like me like ^^
122. Comments by soupychan [Rating: ?/10]
Yes, it's another entry in the "super teacher" genre. And that's about it.
123. Comments by michiru3 [Rating: 3/10]
Watched ep.1-6. Abe is still emotionless, just like he was in Antique & My Little Chef. Teachers are the MOST annoying of all the dramas I've watched. Only okay part are the students. YamaP & Teppei are interesting to watch. Even though they tried to make the story "real", it felt fake and I feel it's sending the wrong message. By ep. 6, the teachers have annoyed me so much that I can't stand to watch another episode.
124. Comments by ^aPPLe^ [Rating: 8/10]
I really liked it.. but overall, I still feel that sth's missing... can be better =)
125. Comments by sagiarsyad [Rating: 8/10]
7 years after, GTO
now we can see another school drama with strong story like GTO
126. Comments by Q-chan [Rating: 8/10]
Cool YamaP & Teppei... Lots of study tricks...
127. Comments by glyq [Rating: 9/10]
rather interesting... onli thing that i hate Hasegawa Kyoko's character.. so damn annoying
128. Comments by emiko [Rating: 8/10]
ii dorama to omoimasu. and this has nothing to do with Pi or Teppei becoz am not a fan of those 2. Abe-san's performance was excellent and IMHO he's the main puller in this dorama. I can't imagine any other actors to play Sakuragi except for him :)
129. Comments by crazytigerfrog21 [Rating: 8/10]
Solid effort.
130. Comments by sqid [Rating: 8/10]
interesting
131. Comments by zooey [Rating: 8/10]
More realistic and grounded than its contemporaries (GTO, Gokusen and Gachi baka!). I like the fact that the plot is focused on a single objective.
132. Comments by Lil Kt [Rating: 8/10]
Great drama! ...if only the teachers weren't so annoying =.=
133. Comments by jew_monster [Rating: 9/10]
Fun drama with a good cast and story. Kept me watching til the end.
134. Comments by haru_no_yume [Rating: 7/10]
If you are planning to try the test of Tokyo Daigaku...^_^
135. Comments by AsanoRin [Rating: 8/10]
Makes me really think about how the school system works.
136. Comments by williu [Rating: 9/10]
I was rather impressed by this drama - the acting was good in most cases, and excellent (as always) in Abe Hiroshi. Although there isn't that much of a storyline, the drama still has that 'something' that makes you want to watch it, which is why I am giving it a 9 rather than 8. Overall, a nice drama!
137. Comments by maymay80 [Rating: ?/10]
haven't seen it yet, looking forward to althought i have it.
138. Comments by jdoramafreaks [Rating: 8/10]
こんな学校欲しい!こんなあたしでも東大にいけそうな気がして。。。
139. Comments by KokiChan [Rating: 8/10]
Fun story! I like the relationship between Yuusuke and Naomi ^-^
140. Comments by hina-sama [Rating: 7/10]
Good Drama. It looks pretty much like GTO. Entertaining and funny. If you like Yamapi, go watch it, cuz he does a good job with his character. ^^v
141. Comments by maAkusutipen [Rating: 8/10]
The drama that should be watched by those who have a very important exam coming for pointers... I suggest to those who would be taking college entrance exams soon
142. Comments by oreorulez_12 [Rating: 8/10]
Haven't finished yet...but pretty good, love the teaching methods...and the guy who plays Takei from Gokusen 2 is in it! So is Yamapi from NewS! YAY!
143. Comments by mitha-chan [Rating: 10/10]
GREAT!! a must seen movie!!
144. Comments by ilovetakuya [Rating: 9/10]
This dorama is so fun to watch! I wish i had a teacher like Sakuragi...I'm just really lazy to study hard....Hasegawa Kyoko was cute and charming. The kids were cute.
I'm not sure if the school education should really be focused on sending kids to high profile universities..but still enjoyable!
145. Comments by octane [Rating: 9/10]
this drama is surprisingly good....
146. Comments by aznpride26 [Rating: 10/10]
FUNNY!!! and great at the same time.
147. Comments by youhei_mito [Rating: 7/10]
this is quite interesting as it defers from the usual gto-freak-teacher concept. ya, the teacher is somewat freaky (in a different way), but at least he's not tossing students off a building to make a point ^^;. all in all, good drama. especially if u wan tips on getting into Tokyo Uni.
148. Comments by kumaxell [Rating: 5/10]
It's educational. Period. I endured the whole drama just for Yamashita Tomohisa.
149. Comments by xxSweetDreams_bby [Rating: 8/10]
At one point, I was totally addicted to it. Now, I just like it. Not the best, but definately worth watching.
150. Comments by snapplecap900 [Rating: 10/10]
Love the ways that they studied. I used them, too!
151. Comments by taibabi [Rating: 9/10]
cutee girlssss~ and cool story
152. Comments by illuminati [Rating: 8/10]
good
153. Comments by strawberrynkiwi [Rating: 9/10]
There was so many bad reviews about this drama, so I wasn't sure if I should watch. REVIEWS ARE WRONG! Dragonzakura BLEW me away!!!! I was so surprise b/c it was so different from GTO, Gokusen, Gachibaka. It was amazing. The whole concept made a lot of sense to me. The ending did kinda suck b/c everyone likes happy endings. Reality is reality. Education is extremely important as well as friendship/feelings/family etc. The students was such eye candies too... especially YAMAPI&TEPPEI =)
154. Comments by Ciar [Rating: 7/10]
I've only seen the first episode yet, but the characters are fun. Besides. after watching it, even I might have a chance at going to Toudai ^^. Ehm. If I lived in Nippon that is...
155. Comments by nindroid [Rating: ?/10]
i also want to enter TODAI!!!
156. Comments by stuffed.with.fluff [Rating: 7/10]
Mehhh... I like the casting, but the story kinda... Blah.
157. Comments by ReDxFred4 [Rating: 10/10]
MY FAVORITE DRAMA EVER! This drama shows just how hard you must work in order to achieve what you want to be in life and how you want to live your life. The students of Ryuzan High School must go through hell to get into Toudai (a university) but have fun along the way as they learn different school subjects. "If you want to change your life, get into Toudai.!"
There are many awesome young stars in here..as well as Kyoko Hasegawa and Abe, the main protaginist. This drama is one that cannot be misssed!
158. Comments by yo-chan [Rating: 9/10]
Teppei!!! <3
I really liked the idea of it ^^ and the ending is realistic. Really like it!
159. Comments by dekatrain [Rating: 7/10]
Another school drama with a unique storyline about students wishing to excel in their last school year. I didn't really enjoy hiroshi abe as the teacher although his methods were intriguing and definitely adaptable into real-life situations. I loved masami in her role as yamapi's best friend and was relieved after being dissapointed in her portrayal of aki in "sekachuu" the movie. Stumbles in parts, but overall, worth a watch...
160. Comments by g_hunter1 [Rating: 7/10]
Expected a better ending but it was alright.
161. Comments by kira69 [Rating: 9/10]
very very entertaining and educational dorama. loved it.
162. Comments by estranged [Rating: 8/10]
Inspirational story.

Though it emphasises on the importance of getting into Todai throughout the show, the underlying message is that one must have a direction in life and the determination to work towards it.
163. Comments by Luthiel no Edge [Rating: 9/10]
I know I shouldn't mark it so high for a school drama but it was the first time I saw Abe Hiroshi & Aragaki Yui... And I loved the plot so much. Truly addicting.
164. Comments by Fight-oh [Rating: 10/10]
This show is soo super... It's about a teacher name Sakurugi who is trying to get at least 5 kids from the idiot school Ryuzan High to get into the smart school Toudai. When he meets these students he tells them you can get into Toudai if you study hard and dont let anything put you down... Instead of 5 students, 6 students join the special prep class he makes and hope to get in to the smart school Toudai before the end of next year...Can Sakuragi get his students to study hard enough to get into Toudai? Well yu'll have to see the drama to find out!
165. Comments by atleast13 [Rating: ?/10]
it wasn't that bad. it's in the GTO, gokusen genre. failure students and all that stuff. bad boy teacher. watch if you're a big news or wat groupie.
166. Comments by hero too good! [Rating: 10/10]
i guess everythin with yamaP is good,and i liked the part when they do the learning.it makes me feel like learning!but i just wished the 2 ppl also cud go 2 toudai...
167. Comments by ume [Rating: 8/10]
A very light seishun drama. Good relaxing entertainment. I liked the casting quite well.
168. Comments by CdMe [Rating: 7/10]
Typical school drama like gokusen or gto but the "teacher" acts different in this one (plays the asshole). Interesting approach but it follows most of the stereotypes! Sadly!
169. Comments by YoNnA [Rating: 10/10]
love the story...love the music...
170. Comments by Kiyomi L. Denise [Rating: 6/10]
It's so easy to get into Toudai huh?!
171. Comments by noodlefreak [Rating: 10/10]
school dramas=love
172. Comments by lesamouraifou [Rating: 10/10]
What can I say...
Abe Hiroshi is amazing in his role.. he's funny even when he's serious.. All the teachers' methods are so odd, but it works.
SO EVERYBODY WATCH IT!!
173. Comments by vRacing [Rating: 7/10]
coolll....
174. Comments by Azumanga Daioh Fan [Rating: 10/10]
Dragon Zakura is really a great drama. It really is a feel good drama but I found the ending pretty sad. I highly recommend Dragon Zakura for anyone looking for a great comedy with heart.
175. Comments by hisashi [Rating: 8/10]
A nice combination of interesting casts.
176. Comments by Sooji [Rating: 6/10]
hm... studying seems like fun. =P
177. Comments by Super No. 1 [Rating: 7/10]
Another story about trying to turn around the lives of underachieving high school students. There are only so many ways you can have this kind of story before it gets monotonous.
178. Comments by cashewramen [Rating: 9/10]
gud teacher gud student.. yamaP cool... sugoi.....
179. Comments by saya24 [Rating: 8/10]
the beginning was quite boring, but the strategies recommended by the drama are quite amusing~
180. Comments by black-li [Rating: 9/10]
I want to go to todai!! =)
181. Comments by gaijinmark [Rating: 6/10]
Nice cast, no chemistry
182. Comments by addicted2tackey [Rating: ?/10]
watching... currently on ep1
183. Comments by Lady_Susie [Rating: 8/10]
Similar to GTO, its a high school based drama and motivates people to study and work hard ^^ Lotsa cute and pretty people in this...however, ending wasnt as great as I thought it would be.
184. Comments by Tokibaka [Rating: 6/10]
Here I see the same problem as Gokusen, not original at all and the main lead has to be one of the most irritating persons ever. Again , the students rescue this awful remake of every school serie.
185. Comments by Rei_chan11 [Rating: 10/10]
WAAHHH!!!!...,
I like koike teppei here in dragonzakura...
he is very handsome in this show!
186. Comments by kaekaae [Rating: 2/10]
best of drama in my hart
187. Comments by gopro [Rating: 7/10]
This show is about a 7.5ishness its better than N's Aoi and Kuitan but this is sorta lame and cheesy though I wish my school could have done this a few years ago (Special Class to get into Todai). Somewhat entertaining, couple chars were irritating. Abe Hiroshi is pretty good actor I wanna see more dramas with him in it.
(Fall 06)
188. Comments by ayachan369 [Rating: 7/10]
A drama that just might spur u on to study hard!
189. Comments by pinkhairyfairy [Rating: 5/10]
something about it made me dislike it... Loved yamapi's hair though XD
190. Comments by SmiLeeGirl [Rating: 9/10]
Yamapi and the lead had great chemistry (wish there had been more there) Makes me want to go back to school and try something really hard
191. Comments by wanderingfish7 [Rating: 9/10]
It is a nice drama. I never thought education could be that deep and real. Some of what that lawyer said are touching my heart. Of course, the casts are cute.
192. Comments by cutina124 [Rating: 9/10]
Awesome. Love this drama, It made me actually care more about my future and how I can get there. This drama is heartwarming and funny. Yamapi plays his role amazingly, and so does the lawyer/teacher. I reccommend this drama to anyone who loves comedy and doesn't mind not having a romance as a major factor.
193. Comments by aoi_dolphine [Rating: 8/10]
Quite an entertaining drama.
194. Comments by Miyavi [Rating: 8/10]
Cute. Kinda half and half between GTO and Gokusen........
195. Comments by carie_akanishi [Rating: 7/10]
learnt a lot abt the diff ways of studying. Interesting!
196. Comments by Helena [Rating: 5/10]
below my expectation, thought this will b as good as GTO but BIG NO!, really dont like e leading actor, while e rest of e supporting actor n actress quite OK i guess
197. Comments by ReD [Rating: 10/10]
Mengkisahkan seorang peguam harta bagi sebuah sekolah.sekolah tersebut di penuhi pelajar-pelajar bodoh dan bermasalah yang mengakibatkan sekolah itu kerugian besar kerana tiada siapa nak gi sekolah tersebut.sekolah itu nak kena tutup...so lawyer ni( abe hiroshi ) bagi cadangan yang dia nak buat kelas khas yang mana tujuannya untuk menempatkan 4 pelajar ke UNIVERSITI OF TOKYO.dengan cara itu sekolah itu akan famous dan untung balik sebab universiti tokyo adalah impian semua ibubapa terhadap anaknya.so lawyer tu ajar diorang...gempak gila skill belajar yang dipapar dan dicadangkan...Kesimpulannya cerita ni best gila...aku suka
198. Comments by Mali [Rating: 8/10]
It remind me GTO, but a little bit different, because here the students really study (which was not the case neither in GTO nor in Gokusen...). I enjoyed it.
199. Comments by sweet_tapioca [Rating: 9/10]
I really enjoyed this drama. I thought Abe did a great job. I also really liked Tomohisa.
200. Comments by gto_girlz83 [Rating: 10/10]
Abe is acting really good! i lov his character when teaching that stupid n lazy girls n boys. Highly recommended to teenager that learning process is not only done by reading..There're various of way to succeed with different method and enjoyable
201. Comments by Wen3Wen [Rating: 8/10]
Very motivational
202. Comments by MRStakahisa [Rating: 7/10]
To some people (like my aunt), this show might be kinda boring. BUT it conveys a good message for people who look down on themselves, or despise other people. Another one of the "You will do it if you try" type of drama, just that not EVERYBODY will see good results. Those who've watched will know what I'm talking about... Those who're taking their exams soon, WATCH IT!

-People from NEWS-
Yamashita Tomohisa:
He acts as a rebellion in the early part of the show, but because of certain circumstances, he was being "sold" to Zakura-sensei. He's cool. =)
203. Comments by bigfire [Rating: 8/10]
While it was a very inspirational tale for me, I just couldn't help but be rather irritated with Hasegawa Kyoko's character. Yeah, she's hot and I know that her role was to balance her personality against Abe Hiroshi's, but D@MN! Anyway... Even with her nagging and whining I'd still watch it again. For me, the special teachers were enormously entertaining and they just made me want to study again. Go figure...
204. Comments by totuta [Rating: 9/10]
unique.
205. Comments by puny_bunny12 [Rating: 9/10]
Loved the cast. Interesting storyline.
206. Comments by nimadifob [Rating: 8/10]
aragaki yui!! so fucking hot!! good nuff drama for entertainment.
207. Comments by expanzee [Rating: 8/10]
Is it that easy to enter Todai?
208. Comments by robetella [Rating: 8/10]
Great n fun drama to watch...
209. Comments by 206 [Rating: 7/10]
The challenge of entering college exams is really expressed in this teacher student drama. It shows the emphasis that J-students do in high school to gain access to college as what school you go to seems to determine what job you get and your income. This drama is very different from GTO and Gokusen.
210. Comments by Wynter [Rating: 7/10]
Another school drama that deals with the empowerment of learning.
211. Comments by hummer [Rating: 8/10]
A pretty interesting drama. It got a point off for the unoriginal idea, but even though this idea has been a little overused in jdoramas, it managed to retain a little bit of original flavor. A small problem with the cast is that sometimes the girls looked too similar. Yes, I realize that they can't help how they look, but they could have at least tried a little more to give them different styles of dress. Also, another thing that bothered me immensely was Hiroshi's expressions, or lack thereof. He had a grand total of three expressions: The most used one was his bemused slight smirk that he kept on throughout the drama, the second was his angry face which is him frowning a little, and the last I can't recall, but there must have been another one. Otherwise, this drama was actually pretty good and had its touching moments and it was actually pretty fun watching them studying and taking all those tests.. X3
212. Comments by tetsu69ers [Rating: 8/10]
hirosHi aBe is cool,, teppei kawaii,,
213. Comments by caoutchouc [Rating: 10/10]
Soooo cool!!
214. Comments by miszJLi [Rating: 8/10]
It's a good drama ^^
215. Comments by masnita [Rating: 8/10]
Enjoyable!
216. Comments by Spyde- [Rating: 8/10]
A good drama, though it's not much anything new.
217. Comments by irwinner [Rating: 8/10]
Interesting drama about studying techniques.
218. Comments by You [Rating: 8/10]
It's 8,5/10 ;D.
219. Comments by masami4evaaa [Rating: 9/10]
i like to see masami in this j-dorama!!
220. Comments by xinyi [Rating: 7/10]
touching at some scenes, boring at some scenes.
221. Comments by ShinYo [Rating: 8/10]
Abe Hiroshi was great, and the story was interesting too. Got to learn some of study skills.
222. Comments by Kitsuchi [Rating: 9/10]
This dorama is much likely as many others, but one shouldn't compare. One should see this as a dorama by itself.

However, I really enjoyed watching it. I agree that there were alot of gaps in the dorama. It ended weirdly, almost just as it started. It left you with alot of questions wanting answers and some stuff haven't even been solved. Like the romance, the relations between people and also problems relating their families.. "What happened to them? What were they planning to do afterwards?".. Questions like that.

Also, there were alot that happened just like that, without showing us from were it came. Like Naomi entering the class again out of nowhere. How come she changed her mind?
Also, the fact that everyone didn't manage to admit Todai.. At least, choose the "right" persons to fail, because those two who failed were those who did the best out of the class. How could they possibly fail and the others manage the exam? It was quite shocking..

Well, although that, I enjoyed the dorama until the last episode.. honestly. I don't regret watching it. The casts were after all great and you got to learn some things yourself too while watching Sakuragi-sensei teach the students. So it wasn't a waste of time at all - noway.

I recommend you watching this dorama. I think it has a meaning behind it. Even if something right in front of you looks so impossible; if you try real hard, the impossible can turn into possible. Show the world what one can do right intheirfaces. After all, it's only two letters - imPOSSIBLE can so easily turn into POSSIBLE (just to erase, right?).

Watch ^_^! (There are also hot guys and girls in this dorama - how can you miss this? ;P)
223. Comments by Angry Machines [Rating: 9/10]
Abe Hiroshi outmatches GTO in every aspect, Abe is the man!!
224. Comments by jdqueennm [Rating: ?/10]
didnt watch much...must see!
225. Comments by tkarmina28 [Rating: 10/10]
Teaches you a great deal about studying and school. Teaches you a lot about life and working hard. Japanese are really good at doing that. ^^'' But all in all, this was a really really really good drama!!
226.