damouse

I have to admit I chose this dorama to watch primarily for Takizawa Hideaki, whom I am the hugest fan of because of the singing duo, Tackey & Tsubasa. I don't have high hopes for it, nor did I expect to love it as much as I do.

The dorama told the story of a chance meeting between Kyoichi, a 21-year-old architecture student and Surumi, a mysterious 26-year-old that somehow appeared in his life. Not surprisingly, Kyoichi fell in love with her although her heart (initially) was elsewhere, and the story revolved around them finding out more about their feelings for each other and the people around them, eventually leading up to Kyoichi having the courage to go after the one he loved.

The story is a very simple one, and cliche, admittedly. However, there was added elements that made this dorama an original one on its own. The plot (although simple) was well-developed and each character was well-explored. I was attached to every single one of the characters - there was not true evil villian, the only "villianous" bits were the very humanistically selfish actions of certain people (Surumi, Shimada, Keiko) that one can surprisingly relate to.

The supporting characters were a delightful bunch, from Kyoichi's nosy neighbours to his lazy security-guard partner, his timid teacher and his other love interest, Keiko.

Nothing Academy award superb about the acting, but everyone gave good performances that made the dorama a very very enjoyable watch. Hasegawa Kyoko is very pretty and pulled off the bratty Surumi well enough. Although she's older than Takki, they somewhat matched because at least she is shorter than him. >.<;; Their chemistry weren't electrifying or anything of that sort, but there was a bittersweetness to it that I really like, particularly when Kyoichi's feelings were obviously unrequited.

I certainly must commend Takki here (not because I love him and therefore biased) but I really could see why people are making the Kimura Takuya comparisms. I was honestly skeptical about his acting, but I can now safely say that Takki is honestly a good actor. He brought a life and a sparkle to Kyoichi that made Kyoichi a wonderful character. I think with the wrong acting and perception applied, Kyoichi would come off as whiny and pathetically stupid rather than the somewhat freshly innocent, lovable and adorably confused yet silly character that was portrayed by Takki. Being that he is only 23, there is definite room for improvement and I can't wait to see his future works. =)