Long Vacation (1996)

"the wall was blown into the next stratosphere"

The statement said to Sena by his mentor encapsulates this wonderful enchanting drama that took me by surprise. I've long been meaning to watch more Japanese Dramas, and have decided to make a concerted effort this year.

Imagine my surprise (pleasant) when I, rather grudgingly pressed play on episode one, you know concerted effort and all that. Granted, episode 1 to 5 were engaging enough for me to continue watching but I wasn't sold on this drama until episode 6 onwards. It's a story that literally takes you by surprise; the impactful moments crept up on me and I found my eyes welling up during seemingly innocuous scenes; for example the two mismatched wine glasses sitting on the makeshift crate coffee table with the bottle of Bordeaux became a symbol of Sena and Minami's budding feelings.
It's a very well crafted, incremental story of two people who appear to be very different falling in love with each other and monumentally changing each other in the process.

The acting is superb by the two leads, I found the lead actress's performance a tad irritating in the earlier episodes, but she improved in latter episodes. Kimura Takura dazzles as Sena, he has a naive, reticent quality yet he is also emotionally strong and mature; the actor managed to encapsulate these different characteristics into one extremely likeable package.
The female lead, I believe is supposed to be more complicated and a little bit unlikeable as she is the one who, although she's older than Sena, has the most growing to do.

The cast overall is so good, I enjoyed Sena's mentor/professor as a constant stabilising force in his life. The other pairings were not very well developed and the relationships seemed undeveloped at the end. However there is an epilogue at the end of the last episode which may shed some light on the final pairings of the supporting cast.

I loved loved loved the soundtrack in this, the songs by Cagnet are beautiful and spot on, they have a 90's feel but can very well stand their ground in 2020. The show is interspersed with lovely piano music, and this juxtaposition of the different music genres is genius. Music is 10 out of 10

In actual fact this is a drama and cast that can stand their ground in 2020, it's not often that you come across such unaffected performances.

Never mind about the 1996 date of production, just watch this drama, its really worth it.

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A hidden masterpiece of the past

It should be a freaking crime for this to have 7.9 this is easily a 10!!! I don't get the ratings at this point cauz really bad dramas get 8 at least and this ahhh. now where do I begin?? I love love love all the characters here they feel very relatable and down to earth yet very strong despite all the struggles I love how gradually and realistacally the leads fall for each, it's not out of the blue but their romance is very long awaited. FL might be my favorite actress in the entire world just phenomenal and ml isn't an immature young boy that's why it worked out so well. This is easily a must watch i would 100% recommend it to everyone I know

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(Almost) perfect slice of life rom-com

First of all, despite the years, the story has aged well and continues to prove why it is considered a classic of Japanese dramas.

The plot is pretty simple, but the character development of Sena and Minami is impeccable. From the beginning we can see their flaws and limitations, we can see them make mistakes and learn, we can see them find their place in the world and try to follow their dreams….

Their chemistry is amazing and I loved the transition from strangers to friends to lovers, there are a lot of blurred lines between one stage and the other, but that also added to the watching experience.

The music is superb, there are already several songs forever added to my playlists

The ending is correct, but there seemed to be a lot of threads and plots that were never followed up.

Another negative point is the secondary couple, I can't for the life of me understand why the drama dedicated so much time to these two characters, one was hot but kind of a sleazebag and the other was bland af.

Is it worth watching? Yes, but this humble viewer thinks it's a bit overrated. Maybe, once again, my high expectations worked against me, but it’s still a worthy find, you don't see many asian dramas that are almost three decades old recommended today.

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That's how it's done!

A great drama from beginning to end. Infact it's so great that despite being made in 1996, it's feels so modern and relevant. A heartwarming romcom that actually shows us the leads lives and wide range of emotions and struggles and how a forced Co habitation turn to two people come to depend on each other then naturally fall in love. The first time they kissed, I was like finally yes! They built the momentum for the romance in the most realistic way, at some point I forgot I was watching a drama. Her a model at the end of her career struggling to see where she can find her place in society after being dumped by her fiancee on her wedding day, him a pianist that struggled to convey raw emotions while playing. I don't want to talk about the chemistry, i want everyone to watch a text book on how to have a good chemistry in this drama. As the title that's just how you do it. Anyone intimidated by how old this drama is, just give it a go!
Ps The opening song will forever live in head!

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My favorite Jdorama of all time.

Long Vacation remains to this day my favorite Jdorama of all time. The story, the cast, the OST, the pop culture influence it created - it is simply a classic. The story is simply but very moving and certain scenes left a deep impression on me, especially the conversations between Sena and Minami. Long Vacation is an apt title to describe where the main characters are at - it's about the period of time when people come at a crossroad and they're lost about what to do with themselves. The chemistry between Takuya Kimura and Tomoko Yamaguchi is simply spectacular and untoppable. Tomoko makes her character very fascinating with her bursts of energetic intensity and moments of vulnerability. Takuya shows his true depth as an actor here with his touching portrayal of Sena. Two thumbs WAY UP!

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Old but GOLD!

Came across with this very recently so I watch it out of curiosity and it turned out to be one of my favourite romance dramas of all time. Note that it's 2021 when I first watch it. Even though this drama is already 25 years old I still find this amusing, definitely a masterpiece. Definitely classic and aged well. Everything is just perfect, shooting technique, character development, storyline, right pace, rhythm, inspiring and everything. If I have to pick something I don't like about this drama, that would be the poor picture quality, its so low definition that I feel it could hurt my eyes. Hopefully somebody can remaster it one day. Nevertheless, it's still worth the watch. Absolutely recommended!

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Like it!

In fact, even the first episode was enough to capture my attention. There are only a few things I dislike in this drama, but it's not to the point of deep hatred, I guess? It kind of bothered me when the FL chose to date another guy while being in love with Sena, but I kind of emphasized with her. She was unsure of how their relationship would turn out as she was afraid of ruining their friendship, and also, they didn't talk about their feelings. They were both going back and forth, and hence, took them a long time to finally be together. So, that's okay and understandable. Still, the main issue is that she continues to go out with Mr. Sugisaki, who is making an effort to slowly introduce his life to her, even though at some point, her initial relationship with Sena took a turn and she broke up with him (Mr. Sugisaki). It was unfair for Mr. Sugisaki actually, who seems to be her rebound. In the end, they did it, which technically means she cheated. I am grateful that they broke up after that, but still, I feel heartbroken for Mr. Sugisaki.

On the other hand, I was surprised by how fast the ML suddenly fell in love with the FL. It took one kiss HAHAHAAA. Also, it's ironic that her junior seems to know her thoughts really well and was the one pushing them (all of them) to confess their feelings and advising them about it (though she seems insensitive sometimes).

But despite that, there are a lot of things I like, such as their acting and chemistry. The way they express their character and deliver the lines really impressed me. It all seemed natural, you know? The storyline and pacing are also well done! The side characters were given some screen time and equally highlighted their part without being too much. It's hard to explain, but overall, the stories of the main couple and the side couple were portrayed in a natural way. There was no conflict between the two. It's like what it is. Anyway, I really like it. The comedy and drama also do not look forced.

So, it was a good watch! Really enjoyed the drama!

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When nothing seems to go right, that is probably when God gives you a vacation

As a die-hard romance drama fan, this is one in the few drama makes it to my list of all time favorite dramas ever.
There is no big plot twist, no cliche drama, no intricate conflict or tragedy but a very original and engaging romance that is healing and heart-warming between the two main characters when they go through a challenging time in life together.
It started when 30years-old Minami, miserable and broke after being left behind by her groom on her very wedding day, has no choice but to start sharing the same house with Sena, a shy 24 years old piano majored graduate who is at a crossroad pondering over his uncertain future as a pianist. Cheerful, easygoing, earnest and outspoken, Minami often finds herself being belittled at first by Sena, who is sensible, but shy and restrained. A seemingly impossible romance began to brew when they slowly found solace in each other’s companion to overcome their low time and find their own answers and happiness for future. The plot is simple, the story feels very real, nothing too dramatic but still incredibly engaging and enchanting.
I love all the characters here, from supporting to the leads. A boyish, shy but very manly Sena, a cheerful, outspoken but always acting strong and mature Minami, a naive but brave and earnest Ryoko, a seeming playboy but sincere at heart Shinji, a dependent but loving Rumiko; a seemingly slow but unexpectedly sharp when it comes to romance Momoko; and a mature and sensible Sugiyama; all are very well-built and their interaction and conversations attract viewers and add depth to the story.
The drama is quite fast paced and engaging as a whole with beautiful and unforgettable soundtracks to enhance emotional scenes.
The opening theme is definitely one of my fav song. Needless to say, the casts, especially the ML and FL delivered splendid performance. I think I started to watch Kimura Takuya drama because of his impressive acting here.

I first watched the drama in my early 20s and immediately fell in love with it. But it was just a good romance drama for me then. I had chance to watch it again before turning 30, just around the same age as the female character. That was when the drama hit me hard as I can resonate deeper with Minami and came to understand why the characters acted that way.

Though it was released in 1996, the drama withstands the test of time as it continues to prove its position as one of the most favorite drama to viewers in Japan and Asia in general.
If you are looking for a light-hearted romance drama or a healing drama, do give it a try :)

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Love works in a mysterious way

Idk where to begin. This show is just pure joy and so original. The acting is so natural and the story unfold beautiful from start to finish.

One of the most memorable drama when I was growing up. This show remains to be my top 10 favourite dramas of all time.

The main leads were phenomenal. Their chemistry was so good from the get go. The rest of the casts are amazing as well. The interactions and conversations are so natural like it didn't feel it was written. Thats how good it is. Its like real people, dealing with their daily problems or inner-issues. The aspirations and the struggle to achieve the dream. Just how important it is to have someone next to you, when you feel down and defeated.

There are many moments in the show that I still remember to this day, particularly the rubber ball. Whenever I saw one, immediately I imagine myself bouncing it outside of my window from the top floor. Epic satisfaction!

As always; Would I watch it again in a whole? YES.

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A very long vacation aka a slow burn

The first episode was not great as I was watching and I wondered if it was a good pick but the ending of the episode touched my heart and that is when I began to enjoy the story.

The acting and characters are wonderful and the story is sweet but there are times when you wish they had gotten together already. Then again the show is titled 'Long Vacation'. You're in it for a long ride.

The piano and OST are beautiful and catchy but there are times when the music overlaps on the piano playing which is a possible drawback. I would have liked to listen to Sena play more.

Sena and Minami make a good pair with her outgoing and overly positive and peppy nature and his introverted, shy, and hesitant nature which she brings out the best in while he provides her with the dependable sweetness that she longs for.

I would have loved to see some moments of them as an official couple where they know where they stand with each other.

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