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Over Time [オーバー・タイム]

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Drama Details
Title:Over Time
オーバー・タイム
Telecast:1999-01-04 to 1999-03-22
Season:Winter 1999



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TV Station:Fuji TV
Duration:12 Episodes
Viewership:21.9%



Synopsis
While on vacation in Hokkaido, Natsuki happens to meet Soichirou, a photographer. He turns out to be the younger brother of one of her best friends, and they all end up living under the same roof. Three women, all unmarried, and all nearing age 30, plus 25-year-old Soichirou. Can a man and a woman truly be friends without ever falling in love? How large is the line between friendship and love, or does it even exist at all?
awrittensin

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Soundtrack and Theme Songs (6)
1. Sono Speed De [The Brilliant Green]LYRICS | RINGTONE | MIDI ]
2. Kaede [Spitz]LYRICS ]
3. Sunday Morning Lovers [Yamaguchi Yuko]LYRICS ]
4. I Believe [Yamaguchi Yuko]LYRICS | RINGTONE | MIDI ]
5. I Believe (English) [Yamaguchi Yuko]LYRICS ]
6. Nagai tameiki no you ni [The Brilliant Green]

Actor/Actress Cast (13)
Sorimachi Takashi
反町隆史
Kaede Soichiro
楓 宗一郎 (25)
Esumi Makiko
江角マキコ
Kasahara Natsuki
笠原 夏樹 (29)
Ishida Yuriko
石田ゆり子
Tsurumasa Fuyumi
鶴町 冬美
Nishida Naomi
西田尚美
Kaede Haruko
楓 春子
Kimura Yoshino
木村佳乃
Kurata Nazuna
倉田なずな
Shiina Kippei
椎名桔平
Kugata Tsuhiko
久我 龍彦
Kato Haruhiko
加藤晴彦
Endo Kazuya
遠藤 和也 (23)
Ito Hideaki
伊藤英明
Kobayashi Yuuki
小林 裕貴 (23)
Tanaka Rena
田中麗奈
Kamiya Rina
Hoshino Yuka
星野有香
Manabehi Biki
真鍋 響
Nakazawa Junko
中沢純子
 
Haba Yuichi
羽場裕一
 
Ichiro Maki
一路真輝
 
  

Related Links (6)
1. Official Over time Homepage @ Fuji TV (Japanese)
2. http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Subway/6869/overtime.html
3. Over Time (Hata)
4. StarEastNet Singapore
5. Over time Infopage (Big5)
6. Over Time synopsis (Big5)

Drama Reviews (30)
!!WARNING!!
The review section may contain spoilers! Please understand
that you may find out about this drama's endings and plots!


1. Arbitrary, Annoying Ending; Nice Buildup & Act [Rating: 6/10]
...ing

[Beware: Possible spoilers!]

I remember this being the first J-drama aired on the International Channel in early '99 after the excellent "With Love," the first after FCI (stupidly) discontinued English subtitling. It took a full ten years, but I finally got to see it and... color me frustrated.

The acting in this is phenomenal by all involved - particularly Esumi and Sorimachi in the leads - to the point that it's difficult to believe that these are actors playing roles. The soundtrack is excellent too, but then I never could resist Tomoko or BuriGuri, and Yamaguchi Yuko is a revelation. The problem is with the writing and that horrid, illogical ending.

For a story to be good it has to adhere to its own internal logic. So here you have an artfully-constructed development of characters and their relationships from a chance meeting, a clear chemistry building between two people (a chemistry palpable between the actors, Esumi and Sorimachi,) but in the end it's all for a huge, anticlimactic nothing.

This isn't about "realistic ending" vs. a "fairy-tale ending," but rather an ending that is utterly arbitrary, that runs counter to a story that had painted a convincing picture of two people who are really "halves of the same whole." Natsuki's decision - and Kaede's insistence on her making that decision - is a massive short-circuit to the entire story up to that point. Forget "fairy-tale endings" - in real life, when two people meet and discover over the course of time and experience that they're kindred spirits, the most "realistic" outcome is for them to become an item. I disagree too with the point someone else made here about Kaede's stoicism. I don't think his stoicism makes his professions of love for Natsuki hard to believe - if anything it increases their depth and intensity.

The "love triangle" thing is necessary for the story's conflict, but for that to work the relationship between Natsuki and Kuga-sensei needed to be much deeper - at least as deep as the bond between Nat-chan and Kaede. I'm not talking about Shiina's acting - which was superb - but the fact that his character, Kuga, has virtually no chemistry with Natsuki. His character is written almost like a supporting role - like Haruko or Fuyumi - but it needed to have the same depth as the other two leads. Balance is everything, and the love triangle is horribly lopsided. The result is that Natsuki's climactic decision seems completely arbitrary, nothing more than a pragmatic whim.

I can't help wondering how much more powerful this story - and its ending - would have been, if Kuga's character and relationship with Natsuki had been written with enough depth to balance against her relationship with Kaede. It would have lent far more weight to her conflicting emotions, and far more dramatic punch (not to mention plausibility,) to her final decision.

In short-circuiting what had been an excellent romantic buildup, the writers effectively pulled the rug from beneath the audience's feet. I feel like I've just been through a lengthy, heart-wrenching ordeal with no satisfactory resolution. The series is well worth watching, but I can't say that I'm sorry it's over.
Reviewed by Sakebitosan on 7 January 2010
2. Enjoyable and solid~~ but ahh, a little frustratin [Rating: 9/10]
I didn't expect to enjoy this but it came out as a pleasant surprise. Basically, the drama's about two people who eventually become best friends - the kind who understand everything about each other - while parallel subplots go on about the people they are currently dating. Then, at about 3-quarters into the story you get that "sliding" into should-we-be-more-than-friends territory. Someone else here has said that the drama makes you think about the fact that maybe sometimes you don't end up marrying your soul mate.... your soul mate just remains your friend. And yes, this drama does center around that. And it's a very nice message about how life works. The acting and script delivers well with really cute chemistry between the two leads.

Still, like another reviewer said, the ending was disappointing only because I can't understand why the lead girl made the decision that she did. She made it clear that she loves the doctor very much, but it's just so hard to believe that she loves him more than Soichiro who's you know her best friend and soul mate. And she knows Soichiro loves her. Speaking of, he let her go because he believes she would be miserable with him. Well, I can't see why he should think that because she seemed much happier when she hung out with him. So, although I like that it wasn't fairy-tale, the bittersweet ending was just lacking because I couldn't completely empathize with the characters. Either Soichiro should never have fallen in love with her - so that both best friends can mutually think of each other as friends - or there should have been a better, more powerful reason for them to stray apart. Or, you know, they could've have just chosen each other.

I also felt that this some minor characters were just so random. Like, Kobayashi-kun. I thought he might end up with Nozana but it seemed like Nozana still likes Soichiro. What was his point in the story? I don't know.

Anyway, I would recommend this. It's slow-paced but in a good way. It makes you warm inside and gives you hope of finding a friendship as strong as Soichiro and Natsuki's. :)
Reviewed by elalendi on 28 January 2011
3. Could've been much better [Rating: 7/10]
The overall idea of this story is perhaps to answer the arbitrary question of whether a grown man and a grown woman can be merely best friends. The exploration of friendships and relationships in this drama is pretty enjoyable to watch and at times even funny, but the excitement doesn't last for too long.

In the first few episodes, the character development is credible and thanks to the superfluous yet clever script, viewers are able to understand the characters and their idiosyncrasies at an individual range. However, the drama is later aggravated by the rather weak storyline that becomes more pronounced as the story moves on. It doesn't have a strong arc to follow but only to vacillate between the inconsequential subplots that are neither properly nor convincingly built. Somewhere in the middle of the drama, it just drags on and on endlessly with unnecessary scenes.

Takashi Sorimachi does not shine here, delivering an insipid, mundane and self-conscious performance which kills the drama for me. This may perhaps due to the character himself, who seems too confused and disingenuous with his own feelings between the 2 women in his life. His expression is too stoic that as the story progresses, I don't believe his confessions of love at all.

Esumi Makiko, however, is wonderful. She has her own style of acting which complements the character of Natsuki perfectly. The rest of the cast is great, especially Shiina Kippei. And the soundtrack is really good which lingers on ideally throughout the drama.

Although I'm disappointed and not too keen on Sorimachi's portrayal and the storyline, or lack thereof, I find the ending to be very strong and moving. Overall, this drama isn't as good as it could potentially be for me.
Reviewed by Mint on 8 May 2008
4. Yes, I LOVED the Ending! [Rating: 9/10]
Over Time was a great drama, and very well written (as is expected from Kitagawa Eriko).

I wasn�ft sure at first how strong the chemistry between Sorimachi Takashi and Esumi Makiko would be. I�fve seen a lot of dramas for each and wasn�ft convinced that it would be great. It WAS great, and I�fm glad. The supporting cast was awesome, especially Ishida Yuriko who always plays these type of roles with perfection.

I was a little disappointed with Kimura Toshino�fs character. The acting was superb, as always from this actress, but her character was terribly annoying. I had no sympathy for her whatsoever, and therefore didn�ft like Sorimachi�fs character when he was with her. They�fre pairing seemed forced and unbelievable.

What I did like about this drama was the way they pulled off the ending. Normally, in a romance, if the lead male and female don�ft end up together, then the ending sucks. But in this case it seemed appropriate. Personally, I have always believed that one�fs soulmate doesn�ft have to be the one they love/marry. I think this was the premise of the show. Soichiro and Natsuki were soulmates. The path they choose to follow in the end may not be ideal, but I can see why it had to be. I think Natsuki made the right choice. The end of this drama was very powerful and I commend Kitagawa Eriko for writing something this great.
Reviewed by Wynter on 28 July 2008
5. A True Reflection of the Bittersweet Symphony of L [Rating: 10/10]
Are you into fairy tale jap story? Well, me too but I luv this drama nevertheless despite its realistic plot. But life is like that sometimes, you enjoy the moment while it lasts and you have to go back to a more practical world. The show doesn't just centre around the main couple and good if you find tight plots boring. It shows you the lives of the other minor characters too. As what the title says, the two main charac find themselves developing a special chemistry more than just friendship OVERTIME. It tells you sometimes the pretty person you admire may not be your soulmate afterall but your buddy who click well with you grows on you subconsciously. The last few episodes will touch you so deeply you will fnd your face streaking with only warm tears. Because it's real it touches hearts. Very heartwarming which makes you want to hug the pillow and shriek and sigh. Ending puts viewers in a thinking mode and reflect life. Not for viewers who cannot cope with the true bittersweet symphony of life. My first fav jap drama. Cute cast too.
Reviewed by aki_07 on 26 April 2005
6. This Japanese Drama Is Great! [Rating: 10/10]
This is actually the first japanese drama I've ever finish watching. Even though I don't know much japanese I still thought this drama was not bad at all. I first watched it at my friends house, but I brought it later on because I thought this jap. drama was so good. I love the character's in the story because I could relate to them. I myself was once like Nazuna, but I have learned from it just as she did. I think the girl (Kimura Yoshino) who plays her did pretty well over her other characters from her other dramas because she is my favorite japanese actress. Sorimachi and Esumi did pretty well too portraying the main characters even though I like Sorimachi better in GTO. I think the other people portrayed ok as well as their characters. The songs are great (The Brilliant Green is the best), the story line was amazing, but the ending was a bit disappointing though (don't want to ruin it for those who haven't watched it yet). Overall, this jap. drama deserves a perfect score.
Reviewed by catcat on 5 March 2001
7. Ahhh, a very memorable drama with a surprising twi [Rating: 9/10]
overall, this drama held my attention pretty much through out the series,

I know some people didn't enjoy the ending, but I thought it was sweet, and soichiro knew he was not the perfect man for nazuki.

Plus he has Kimura Yoshino as backup, so hes not going to be lonely, hehee

Some people compared this drama to long vacation, and they are sooooooo WRONg,
besidees the obvious similarity of older women and a younger man.
there is not a ounce of simililarity with this drama and long vacation. Actually , I finished watching it, And I didn't even realize Nazuki is older than soichiro. OT has its unique plot and excellent story line.
Sometimes the drama moves slowly, but it held up together in the end for a outstanding jdorama.
Reviewed by Shino on 23 April 2003
8. A simple love story [Rating: 8/10]
Everything about this drama is soft and slow. Yes, the drama is slow, but no, it's not boring. I can see the producers of this drama wanted the story to develop slowly. They wanted the chemistry of the characters to slowly develop, and they did. It doesn't have all these complicated twists or obstacles in each episode, nor are there any use of one main catch that rides the drama all the way to the end. It's just about people having feelings for each other, and how through time they begin to understand and have feelings. I like the drama for its simplicity and for its mellow tone. I am sure they intended it that way, and it came out that way, nice and soft.
Reviewed by Hiro Toyo on 9 January 2004
9. Quilted_ghoul [Rating: 10/10]
This is one of the best japanese drama aired in singapore. Because of this drama, i started to take notice of Esumi and Sorimachi and too, started listening to j-pop. The soundtrack by Yamagouchi was the best~! It really suits the drama to a T. Basically, this story is about a heart tingling love between two really good friends with a very very very very very very unexpected ending. I was pretty pissed of by the ending. But after watching it again and again, i realised that if it was that way, it would be better. Who knows? Maybe Natsuki and Kugs-san might get divorced? =X Hehe...anyway, Overtime is a show not to be missed =o)
Reviewed by Quilted_ghoul on 7 September 2002
10. A very realistic show [Rating: 7/10]
This was one of the first jap dramas that I watched and I actually watched this before "Long Vacation" Although many people feel that "Overtime" is ,in some ways, a rip-off of "Long Vacation", personally, I feel that Overtime has its own strong points. The storyline flows smoothly and the feelings of Natsuki and Soichiro are both portrayed very well too. The lifestyles of the young pple in the show are also portrayed quite well. Though some may not like the ending, i feel that it's a great ending because it's the most realistic one, and not like a fairy-tale.
Reviewed by esther27 on 5 June 2001
11. The "Beautiful People" [Rating: 7/10]
The plot revolves around a group engaging 20-somethings in varying states of love, with each character finding their way other characters' lives. It's more like community (and sometimes like a commune), but the cast is so likable and basically good-hearted that you can't help but enjoy the relaxed drama.

The cast is strikingly attractive, so even the "plain jane" (Naomi Nishida) is a former Shiseido model. The stately plot is the kind you can predict episodes in advance, but it's so agreeable there's no hard feelings.
Reviewed by jdoramadotcom on 28 November 2009
12. Eriko Kitagawa certainly doesn't disappoint! [Rating: 9/10]
Definitely liked a lot fo the one-on-one scenes that were taken in this dorama. Sorimachi Takashi worked very well with Esumi Makiko in this dorama and I wish their was more interaction between them in GTO. Takashi also seemed to work well with Rena which probably explained their cast selection in the GTO special later on. Kitagawa wrote a fine script for this dorama although personally, it may have been a bit overly draggy. All in all though, i'd rank it among the best doramas i've seen.
Reviewed by Shindou on 24 October 2006
13. Oh, so good!!!!! [Rating: 9/10]
This drama series is really good. Funny and romantic at the same time. Just love this type of dorama. Takashi Sorimachi is wonderful, charming and a pretty good actor (now I understand why Nanako is married with him!). Makiko, I love her acting, she's so full of charisma!!!
The story isn't that great, but is realistic, since it shows every-day-life-thing.
The OST is amazing, I just love listening to Believe.
A must see!!!!!!
Reviewed by shiruchsn on 13 November 2004
14. My fave jdrama since yr 2000 [Rating: 9/10]
This has been my fave drama since yr 2000(and still is). Probably because of the things that happened to me that year, so this drama acted like an reflection of my life at that point.
Indeed the love between the lead actress and actor is deep yet incomprehensible. He chose to give up her, so that she can be with the doctor...It is indeed a true eg of sacrificial love. Profound and melancholic..
Reviewed by tingtongbell on 23 March 2004
15. Stupid Ending, Lovely Beginning [Rating: 8/10]
What i love about this drama? Herm.. Let see, i think, it has a very lovely beginning. I just love the moment when Souchiro and Natsuki met! It's so cute !!! Plus all of the songs is great and wonderful !!

I think it have a very super suck ending!! How could it end that way !! I think Souchiro is a loser!!

Love those wonderful early moment of Souchiro and Natsuki!! She is so funny !!
Reviewed by Michi on 25 February 2002
16. Not bad, must watch. [Rating: 8/10]
I like the part when he is making the decision, the suspense the audience feel when you don't know which one he is going to meet, that part is great, it makes you suck in your breathe and you can even feel the great internal struggle and love between the characters....ah, this is the kind of J drama I like, the climax and high at the end.
Reviewed by ladyelf on 21 June 2003
17. Good!! [Rating: 9/10]
I find this drama really good, especially the ending. Although it wasn't what most people expected as it should be, that is what makes it so rememerable. This drama is not the typical 'love, mushy' kinda drama, but has a different touch to it. The theme songs in this drama are excellent and well suited to the drama.
Reviewed by Totoro on 24 February 2002
18. Average only [Rating: 7/10]
Simple story line but with good acting jobs from the member of the cast. Not enough touching moments in the show. Chemistry between the main characters is not developed. Although this was written by the same writer created Long Vacation, its not at the same level. I'm a little disappointed with this drama.
Reviewed by jdfan on 27 June 2002
19. Greatness [Rating: 7/10]
This is a very nice drama... i really love the pairing of Esumi and Sorimachi. in the whole show, i looked forward to only Esumi and Sorimachi. I was pretty dissappointed that they did not have a future together. But over all! the soundtrack is Great! the imagary are great! Esumi Makiko is GREAT! GREAT! GREAT!~
Reviewed by Prisc on 16 November 2001
20. best ever!!! [Rating: 10/10]
omg, this is the best jap drama i've ever watched. when i saw the ending for the first time, i couldn't get rid of it from my head for two days, and i keep thinking why do they end up that way. after watching it for the nth times, i begin to get it. two dumbs up, definitely!!!!
Reviewed by tequilavodka on 22 July 2001
21. Great plot, great acting, love story with a twist [Rating: 9/10]
The actors all did pretty good in this show, especially takashi. The music is superb... i believe is a great song, and the brilliant green just rules!! The ending is not really a happy ending, but i felt that it was a good and rather touching one
Reviewed by windrider on 29 June 2003
22. My Over Time too [Rating: 10/10]
I like so much this story. Same with my love story, hehehe. Butaway, great acting for my favourite artist / actress, xpecially Esumi, I love her very much (acting only ;)) Great drama !!! Get for it !!. keep on rockin' Sorimachi !
Reviewed by Takumi Am Soichiro on 7 March 2006
23. i like this ending. unexpected!! [Rating: 8/10]
i love sorimachi more in GTO and makiko in power office girl but this drama have its own pesona. the unexpected love from unexpected person with unexpected ending.what can i say?! just two words, great drama!
Reviewed by chep ammar on 20 November 2004
24. Ruined by the ending [Rating: 1/10]
until the last two episodes the score would have been a 10 but Soichiro was a stupid childish baby and Natsuki for some idiotic reason chose to marry the stupid doctor that she doesn't love or even like
Reviewed by Sajen16 on 25 August 2010
25. Excellent. [Rating: 10/10]
Definately one of the best I've seen. This drama is about deep relationships and the various forms of love people can experience. The ending is what pushes this drama above others.
Reviewed by gomibagu on 1 May 2004
26. A great effort! [Rating: 9/10]
This is a good drama..but I don't very like Takashi's acting in here but a great effort in his love drama debut and Esumi Makiko is very matured in here
Reviewed by curian4 on 17 December 2001
27. I, for one, HATED the ending! [Rating: 1/10]
The first 11 episodes were great but the end has left me, much like Fuyumi was, contemplating suicide. Now where's that bottle of ketchup? -;<).
Reviewed by pingpong on 10 March 2005
28. Boring and draggy plot [Rating: 4/10]
One of the most boring doramas with lack of character developments. Nothing special. Didn't like the lead female character's acting/face.
Reviewed by adhi-kun on 17 July 2003
29. Not Bad,,, [Rating: 9/10]
though a little boring at the beginning, and a little too similar to LongVacation,
its good overally. I like it!
Reviewed by idetakun on 10 June 2006
30. OMG [Rating: 9/10]
gosh!~
esumi n sorimachi looks good together too!
dont u guys think so?
Reviewed by juliana_phang on 21 June 2003

Comments From Users (149)
!!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 amane [Rating: 7/10]
first time i watched this dorama,i felt in love with it and that was 3 years ago.recently i brought the dorama and rewatched it,i must say the emotions i felt during my first watch had worn out already.haha..funny isn't it?well,probably the years have teach me to have higher taste and better senses in judging doramas as i watch more and more doramas through the time.so the once charming sorimachi takashi is now not at all charming through my point of view.ahaha he looked old, rigid and dumb here.so right now i still couldn't find out what made me think that he was charming and handsome last 3 years.well to be fair,i suppose i have to write this view considering my first watch too.so what first caught my attention in this dorama was esumi makiko.i think she was beautiful and brilliant here.i don't really like her in power office girl at first.so through this 'overtime' dorama, i learnt what a stunning performer she is.and i must say i love the ending too.ahaha..it was sad however, it was unique and different.it left me this deep hole inside my heart,making my life felt so empty at that moment.so i guess the ending was the one that made this dorama unforgettable and beautiful.and the piano version(voiceless) of 'i believe' really touched my soul,driving me crazy even until now.
2. Comments by donna8157 [Rating: 8/10]
I would actually like to give this drama 8.5/10 for its strong plot from beginning to end and the magnificent set of actors and actresses that were involved in it. I think the best part of this drama was the depth of character in each person - from Natsuki's insecurities to Soichiro's sensitivity and love.

The interaction and chemistry between Esumi Makiko and Sorimachi Takeshi was amazing. The friendship between her and Soichiro seemed very real and very sweet. I especially loved the scene where Soichiro tells Natsumi that he'll give her the scene of Tokyo Tower. As cheesy as it would sound, it was really touching.

Out of all the dramas that I've seen with Esumi Makiko, I think she shines the most in this one. Her feelings and expressions seemed natural and sometimes brought out a tear or two. The supporting actors and actresses also did a wonderful job. I especially liked Shiina Kippei's character as Dr. Kuga, Nat-chan's other love interest. I highly recommend watching this drama for both the excellent cast and story! After watching it, I'm sure the theme song will be replaying in your head.
3. Comments by outlaws0025 [Rating: 8/10]
Pretty hard to judge. I really enjoyed it, but it didn't leave me with just as big an impact as for example GTO, My Boss My Hero or Beach Boys, but it's still a great Romantic story.

Usually in these kinds of doramas where the lead person can't shoose between two persons, I tend to make a favorite right from the very start. But in this one I wasn't able to make up my mind at all. Every time Soichiro was with Natsuki I thought "This is the right one for him", but the same happened every time he was with Nazuna.

The acting is superp! Sorimachi Takashi is and will always be my favorite actor.
I was a bit unsure about Esumi Makiko in the beginning - can she pull of a role like this?
I've only seen her in Shomuni where's she a kinda bossy and straight forward woman.
And I can honestly say she did an amazing job! I love her way of telling everyone exactly how she feels.

All in all it's a 8/10 from me - very close to 9/10, tho.
4. Comments by Tu_triky [Rating: 9/10]
An incredible piece of fiction from my favorite screenwriter, Eriko Kitagawa. This drama engendered such warm feelings, by the end of the story I truly felt as if I had known these characters for years. The intimate look at the life of these palpably real characters was fantastically executed given the sincere effort by the actors. Sorimachi and Esumi Makiko had superb chemistry which I will forever remember. After having seen many recently released dramas, returning to a "classic" drama such as this triggered an indeliable sense of nostalgia reminding me why I was so attracted to dramas in the beginning, many years ago. My only criticism was the difficulty trying to reconcile the ending with my perceptions of the show. I found the ending fairly heart-rending. Ultimately this is the type of drama that you don't want to end and you're sad when it does.
5. Comments by jdfan [Rating: 8/10]
This drama is written by Kitagawa Eriko (who wrote Long Vacation and later the huge-hit Beautiful Life). I specially like this drama because of Sorimachi's VERY good mature acting here and Esumi Makiko is as always very good too! In GTO or Beach Boys, Sorimachi always does his funny faces (I like that too, but believe me, he's a lot more mature/cooler here!) Many beautiful dialogs exchanged between Sorimachi and Esumi who hovers between friends and lovers. I don't wanna spoil the atmosphere but the ending is not what we would expect. But still VERY touching ending. The heart-breaking last scene really makes the whole drama worth watching. Not enough touching moments in between. Although this was written by the same writer created Long Vacation, its not at the same level. I'm a little disappointed with this drama when comparing it to Long Vacation.
6. Comments by catcat [Rating: 9/10]
a very well done japanese drama i must say. sadly, there were disputes between sorimachi takashi and esumi makiko that made the drama not as perfect as it should be. sorimachi is an newspaper photographer who first meets esumi, a hair stylist, on new years eve and then again at his sisters house where they would be living together. they understand each other really well and therefore are meant to be together, but many obstacles are in the way before they could ever be together(ex. sorimachi's girlfriend played by kimura yoshino and esumi's doctor boyfriend.) the ending was rather a suprise. recommend to all who like to watch romance dramas.
7. Comments by norz [Rating: 8/10]
This drama has a different view on deep plationic relationships. The things the characters does seem very sponanious at times or very contained for the sake of not revealing too much to the other person (whatever all that means lol) So basically what the main characters do sometimes is hard to understand. The people that do make sense and seems to know whats going on are haruko and fuyumi lol.. and YES like everyone said the ENDING SUCKED!

overall a great drama and great acting, with a major all star cast you cannot miss! the takashi here is like the one in virgin road, very sweet!
8. Comments by aki_07 [Rating: 10/10]
One of the best! Great soundtrack, cast, plot & dialogues! Some hate the ending but I thought it's realistic & different from the typical. I enjoyed the chemistry between the 2 main actors & how overtime they develop feelings for each other. Sometimes your soulmate is just beside you you know! Watched the last few episodes many times & hugged my pillow & cried many times (crazy! hahaha!) No match for afew years till I watched Boku Dake No Madonna which is on par with this then.
9. Comments by loveaomori [Rating: 5/10]
too ordinary love story to be good. The 3 first episodes are ok but then it becomes shit. The girl who was always crying and saying that it was too painful to date with sorimachi was just pissing me of! So do quotes like "I love you but I don't know if it is like a friend" " I love you but It's too paintful to love you" "I'm happy as long as your happy". I mean I've heard this 234 times in Jdorama. If Sorimachi wasn't in the cast this would deserve a 1 or it wouldn't deserve a review!
10. Comments by Shindou [Rating: 9/10]
Wonderfully acted out by Sorimachi Takashi and Esumi Makiko. Of the four Kitagawa doramas I've seen, I must say all four are among the finest jdoramas i've had the pleasure of watching. Over Time is just a tad weaker than the others but amazing nonetheless. The story is predictable for the most part aside from the unexpected ending. Personally, the music might have been a bit too slow but it seemed to meld well with the pace of the rest of the dorama.
11. Comments by enen_shun [Rating: 8/10]
i remembered watching Over Time abt the same time as GTO .... the period of time when i'm engrossed wif Takashi Sorimachi after watching Beach Boys ... haha .... i borrowed this vcd from my primary sch classmate in 1998 ... Over Time made me knew Makiko Esumi ~~ she's really natural in the drama .... so cute .... frankly speaking , i dun really remember the scenes of the drama already ... but i remembered this was a really good drama !
12. Comments by DragonSpirit164 [Rating: 8/10]
Hmmm.. Very slow start to the drama but it picks up pace storyline wise halfway through. Amazing, amazing soundtrack!! This drama probably has so many good songs I may actually consider buying its soundtrack lol... I felt that the ending was quite nice, and it fit the general theme of the drama quite well.
Very nice chemistry between Soichiro and Natsuki, which was the very big plus point to an otherwise slightly dull storyline.
13. Comments by Angry Machines [Rating: 10/10]
Wow. I just finished watching this. I don't know if they attempeted to create another ''Long vacation'', but this one scores! Sorimachi and top cast, except Makiko whom I've always disliked though she's in her best role here, make this one a nice and mellow friends-love show a winner! I think the late 90s favored this kind of format and hey, it works! U can't imagine what's the ending is like! Watch!
14. Comments by Love Revolution [Rating: 10/10]
Ah! This drama was really great! It is one of the best drama I've ever watched! I love this drama a lot a lot! Without any delay, I saved some money and bought this drama back. The drama was really nice I would say. Makiko Esumi's acting was really fantastic! Her acting was so real! Her characterisic was suite to this drama. The songs were nice too. Buy the soundtrack if possible..it's nice!
15. Comments by Michi [Rating: 8/10]
What i love about this drama? Herm.. Let see, i think, it has a very lovely beginning. I just love the moment when Souchiro and Natsuki met! It's so cute !!! Plus all of the songs is great and wonderful !!

I think it have a very super suck ending!! How could it end that way !! Souchiro is such a loser!!

Love those wonderful early moment of Souchiro and Natsuki!! She is so funny !!
16. Comments by limpaway [Rating: 8/10]
I really liked this show. However the ending was very very disappointing. It is quite similar to Long Vacation in that a younger guy and older woman fall in love with each other and became really good friends before they fall for each other. I wish the ending would be similar too. This is also the first show I've seen with Esumi Makiko and I think she played her role wonderfully.
17. Comments by nadrika [Rating: 8/10]
Watched on local tv before those broadcasting disagreement between Fuji TV and Singapore TV. *rolls eyes*

A very realistic drama. Takashi Sorimachi in a more serious role. Would like to watch this again if i get the chance, in future. Just realised that Yoshino Kimura was in this. So THAT was her. Nice drama with a great cast. Love the theme song and OST very much!!!
18. Comments by Sorata [Rating: 8/10]
I loved the first 11 episodes but hated the last one, by far one of the worst endings i have seen so far.
The characters were all very enjoyable, specially the relationship between Endo and Fuyumi and Kaede and Natsuki had great moments too(damn stupid ending :( ).
Anyway a very good dorama if you like the likes of Long Vacation and Boku dake no Madonna.
19. Comments by pcmodem [Rating: 9/10]
Really good soundtrack and entertaining story... Natsuki and Soichiro were so funny together. While it's from the same folks that brought us Long Vacation, the tale of Over Time is completely different, it revolves around love and sacrifice. Esumi Makiko, Ishida Yuriko, Kimura Yoshino, and Tanaka Rena provide some serious eye-candy in this dorama.
20. Comments by AngelXing [Rating: 8/10]
I truly enjoyed watching this drama. Sorimachi actually did really well in this 'normal' role. Although i found esumi annoying at times. Like an overgrown kid. Felt like screaming, 'GROW UP!' numerous times while watching her. Ugh...can't stand her sometimes. But over all, it was great. The ending was superb. It shouldn't end other ways.
21. Comments by zchendevlemh [Rating: 10/10]
honestlly i got interested in this dorama 'coz this was the only series wherein rena-chan was in..... but i got hooked on the great story line.. matured love story...... u'll reach the ep... 12 and still unsure who will end up with and who will end up to..........

i'll consider this one as one of the best doramas ive watched.....
22. Comments by KrazyMonkey78 [Rating: 7/10]
Story was kinda slow. Lots of metaphors and analogies about love and life. I didn't like the pairing of Sorimachi Takashi and Esumi Makiko, not a great match. Esumi cries alot in this one, very emotional/hormonal, and not Sorimachi Takashi's greatest act either, I've seen him do better. Watched it to see Ito Hideaki (Kobayashi).
23. Comments by majinbads [Rating: 8/10]
A highly watchable romance drama quite like Long Vacation but fell a bit short on the ending (a big problem for those who�d like a happy ending). Great theme song by The Brilliant Green. Make a Malaysian like me take notice of Jpop. Why do they make Makiko Esumi look like that? She is a beauty. Even Fuyumi is no match for her.
24. Comments by Eve [Rating: 9/10]
Sorimachi's best performance most likely. He does justive to a more subtle, sensitive role than his usual overblown ones.. Didnt know he had it in him. A totally absorbing plot, I was completely hooked into these characters lives. It would have gotten a 10 if I had liked the end. But that is purely subjective viewpoint. :>)
25. Comments by krissblade [Rating: ?/10]
This drama was bittersweet for me. The relationship between Ezumi Makiko and Sorimachi is one made in heaven. The deepest kind of love on all levels: friendship, love, family...The kind of love that you dream for in a partner or marriage in life. The twist in the end really made me think. A VERY Japanese ending :P
26. Comments by SunnyDoll [Rating: 9/10]
I adore this drama. It had me hooked to the tv for weeks! I luv sorimachi!! and the lead actress makiko. They have such a nice chemistry between them! I would have given this a 10/10 if not for the ending..... well.... let's just say it did not turn out the way I wanted it to..... anyway this is a MUST for jap fans!
27. Comments by ben_soh23 [Rating: 8/10]
wasnt as good as i expected but still a piece of classic jap drama (my expectations were pretty high for this)...
love the realistic ending because Sochiro and Natsuki are not only lovers but soulmates, who do not have to be always together, they are there to spur each other on even if separated :)
28. Comments by jaycee [Rating: 7/10]
hahaha... now i haf the coments... well, first of all i dun wanna say that the show is that boring but it is a fact... a relationship of an older woman again.... uuu... but u know what.. takashi soramachi was soooooooo kakoii!!! i never thought he could look that good looking in the dorama!!!
29. Comments by aleen84 [Rating: 8/10]
I watched this series on and off.. What can I say? it didn't really makes me waited and anticipated for it. But what I can really say is I like the ending.It's so real..and I really think for once I'm gonna cry.Watching this series, I learned: To love doesn't really means to have..
30. Comments by Eyrien* [Rating: 7/10]
Good drama, with many famous actors (Sorimachi Takashi, Esumi Makiko, Kimura Yoshino, Haruhiko Kato to name a few) Only thing that killed this drama was the ending, a bit of unrequited love on my part. The two characters I was rooting to get together didn't~_~. Still, good to watch.

Read all 149 comments from users


Users who voted for this drama (49)
1. aki_07
Watched the last few episodes don't know how many times & cried along with it that many times too. Very real and heartwarming which makes you want to hug the pillow and shriek and sigh. Ending is sad yet heartwarming at the same time becuase it's so real. My first fav jap drama. After watching on TV I bought the vcds. Cute cast too.
2. tequilavodka
i was depressed for several days after the last episode. yet, i began to comprehend the love and friendship between the two, and why they chose to remain their relationship that way.
this is indeed a very touching drama.
3. WD
Couldn't help thinking how good Takashi & Makiko look together, no matter the age difference! The relationships are well-depicted, heartbreaking at times, and the soundtrack is pretty nice!
4. gomibagu
Definately one of the best. This drama is about deep relationships and the various forms of love people can experience. The ending is what pushes this drama above others.
5. Daze
Although lots of talking in here.... those contents make sense... quite addictive + all the songs in there really bulit the feeling.... Its in my muz keep list too!
6. jrenfuweix8956
favourite show~~~
first jap show i really really love
storyline trough and touching,
but ending is so diappointing~ i still cant get over it~
7. Braehum
I really liked this drama for its charcters and all the actors in it. It was a really funny and good drama.
8. idetakun
though a little boring at the beginning, and a little too much like LV, its good overally. I like it!
9. sepomi800
i love watching the relationship between the two main leads...they look so adorable together...
10. katfame
This drama reminds me of "Long Vacation"...anyhow, it's still a wonderful drama!
11. dare
Good story and nice soundtrack but too bad the ending was not what i wanted.
12. zindaka
excellent dramas, one of my favorites. The ending was a total surprise
13. Caline
The ending left me pondering and wanting for more~!!! GREAT SHOW
14. masnita
Touching drama and very good acting by all the casts.
15. nihon
Very good show, with a somewhat-of-a-twist ending.
16. abe_jame
This drama good and have a lot lesson about life
17. takim
best,funny,make us to learn what a true fren
18. moonchyld
because it's good. excellent in fact. =]
19. winterwish
I love the song.. and also the story.
20. thyelaine
A very nice dorama about friendship.
21. Satawat
This story has many kind of love
22. Ryvyan
Romantic with a sad ending
23. faithe
One of my all-time fav!
24. SiXX
I love this drama. :D
25. cwenting
bittersweet love
26. takoyaki_gal
cool
27. lee931
28. blurq
29. biscuitbox
30. otaking

Read all 49 votes from users