I found this show because I watched Ryusei no Kizuna and fell in love with Nishikido Ryo's acting style, more so than skill; don't get me wrong, I watched Ryusei no Kizuna for Ninomiya Kazunari, too! Both Ninomiya and Nishikido were great in that series, as was Erika Toda; but, I've already watched her Spec series and the Kagi no Kakatta Heya series and special, so this time it was Nishikido Ryo's turn!

This drama was amazing from the first episode! I was planning on watching another Arashi member's drama, but I couldn't find it, so I decided to watch this series on a whim. And I am so glad that I did! The characters seem completely real with actual scenarios, and I like that the story seems to build and build as you watch without the audience being able to guess the next twist or the next jump in the episode/series. The entire cast is really well put together, they seem to know exactly how the actual person they are portraying would behave, which may be a stretch of complimenting since it's only a television show. But, for it to draw in an audience and only be a show with 11 episodes, that's better than some shows who have multiple seasons... At least I think so! Also, I like that they didn't tell the back story immediately or within the first few episodes; it's not so much to keep the audience watching or guessing as it is just how the story was written and how it is acted out. The opening is really well made, too! This is definitely one of my absolute favorite shows!

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To be honest, at the beginning of episodes 1 and 2, I thought it was a bit slow and I almost stopped watching... However, being the actor that he is, Ninomiya Kazunari completely captivated me by the end of the second episode! The cast was really well brought together and had a really great respect for each other; the way they brought the story out was perfect to me. Yokoyama Yu (or is it You..?) was also a fantastic actor in this series; he showed a completely different side to himself than how I've seen him previously. Both Ninomiya and Yokoyama did very well in this series, almost as if they were exactly who their characters were. Fukuda Saki, whom I at first didn't recognize, was really wonderful in this series as well; she was a great character to watch! This show is heartwarming, sweet, silly, and doesn't lay on the romance as thick (which I'm grateful for). I like that there was romance in this drama, but that it didn't effect the entire story. This is definitely a fantastic show to get caught up in!

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At first, I thought this drama was a bit too goofy... but, as it went on and the cases and stories and situations continued to build up and the rapport between the cast grew, it was amazing to watch! I loved the chemistry between Sakurai Sho and Horikita Mari. It was nice to see other actors (Takahashi Katsumi, Endo Kenichi, etc...) in this drama as well; they really did a nice job of supporting and being main characters at the same time. If you watch this drama, you may see what I mean. The show does sometimes say legal jargon I don't understand, but, it isn't that hard to follow if you pay attention to how Sakurai Sho, Horikita Mari, and the rest of the cast explain it. All of the cases are very interesting, which made me take an interest in a new drama genre I've never been interested in before (although "Maou" did the same too)! Seriously, I feel like this may have needed a follow up special... Or maybe that's wishful thinking! It was really a wonderful drama!

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The more I watched this drama, then more scared I became for Koharu and Masamune; his mom seemed like she would never understand, I thought Koharu's nursery school sensei was a bit of a bully, Masamune's boss was a jerk and his cousin was a flake. But, the more I watched this series, the more I also realized how much I enjoyed watching everyone grow along together. I wont say I was "curious" to know more about one person or why something happened or even a specific reason, but it was like watching puzzle pieces fit together to bring back Masamune and Koharu's smiles. Plus, Aiba Masaki-kun's and Ishii Momoka's smiles are absolutely adorable!

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Dr. White in Wonderland...?

This story was truly a unique one. I've not seen one like it and wonder if I will see another like it in the future. The cast created such an open, curious, fun, relatable, genuine, beautiful story that I couldn't stop watching!


As the story continued through the 10 episodes, honestly I began to feel like I was watching Alice in Wonderland almost. Bits and pieces of each episode started to make my head spin and I felt more and more curious as the show continued. This review may be a little short because, in all honesty, I still cannot wrap my head around this story.


The beginning toward the middle was a wonderful build-up to the finale, however, somewhere in the middle it began to feel like the show was rushed for time a little; nothing confused me or was hard to understand, though. It seemed like pieces were missing, cut for time, or even just shortened. I do wish that there was more story and/or character-building. While each character seemed to get their moment in the spotlight, it too felt like it was cut short. The character's did not seem to be "empty" creations, though, if that makes sense. Each person seemed solid, reliable, and most assuredly knew what they were doing to attribute their talents and genuine personalitiy's to each person.


The opening and ending for this show was done by one of my favorite artists, ADO, so that was also a surprise plus for me as I started the show. I don't want to say that there's a cliffhanger, because I don't think there is, but I do think there are a few bits of the story left open. Like unanswered questions or a place for the viewers imagination to take off! This show is a great beginner for Japanese drama watchers, as well as medical mystery favorites. This story became a quick favorite for me!

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Let me start by saying the synopsis not only does not do this wonderful justice, it sort of misleads you; having you believe this show could or could not be what it is as written. The story, and stories, were a spectacular showcase of character growth, dynamic, and genuine, unique talents. The only downside is the fact that there were not enough episodes!

The relationship between each character, as a group and as two people, with and without the guests for each story was very strong! It was interesting to see the backstory building instead of "exploding" within one episode; it was a great cliffhanger to keep the viewers watching. Though I wish there were more details, this sort of "vague" story seemed to fit within the 9 episodes perfectly. It gave more "view time" to the characters' stories, personally and as a group of peoples, and allowed the mystery of each episode to stay in the limelight.

Full disclaimer here!!
This may be listed in other reviews/comments or the genre listing, but this show seemed to have the possibility of becoming a BL (boys love) story, and I won't say that it is, because it didn't really seem to "cross that boundary". However, if you start watching this show based on that alone then you may be too biased to see what amazing storytellers the actors, actresses, and (of course) writers are! I haven't seen a show like this before! This was a fantastic, real, bittersweet story that I only wish had more episodes because it is almost tangible how lovely this story was!

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This is one of the most ridiculous, hilarious, suspenseful, and mysterious shows I have ever watched! It is all of 9 episodes, but you'll figure out the "symbolism" there later! I binge watched this show almost forcefully, and I am so glad I did!

Tanihara Shosuke and Ishihara Satomi make such a good team, the talent and respect they had for each other was palpable and it was such a pleasure to watch them both act out something(s) different than what I've seen them in before!

The show was ridiculous and hilarious, but it had such a thrilling, mysterious, suspenseful, supernatural, detective, true crime feeling to it that it was balanced out so perfectly! I believe this show is very underrated, and to be honest, I almost dropped it; but I am so glad I stuck through all 9 episodes! Each one had me guessing until the end and I never figured out who the real criminal was either! This is definitely Ishihara Satomi and Tanihara Shosuke at their best!

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This series is one of the best detective/police/crime dramas I have seen in a long time, and they were all made in different years, not to mention I watched the last two episodes of season 3 without subtitles! I binge watched this show for four days straight, the entire series; seasons 1 until 3!

I couldn't pull my eyes away from the characters that put so much awe, feeling, perfection, and wonderful storytelling into such intricate and thrilling plots. I think the story for each episode, leading up to the finale for each season, is really well written and definitely not like anything else I've seen in a long time (if ever) but I do believe the odd officers of "zero gakari" make this series worth watching! The mutual respect for each other and all of their hard work can be seen throughout the entire show.

This show is a whirlwind of suspense! I never saw the end coming, but then again, the story was something I've never seen done before either. I really wish the last two episodes were subbed, so I could understand a bit more; but for fans of this series, if you really pay attention, it isn't that hard to tell what's going on enough to get the gist of the situation up until the very last moment.

This series seems to be a bit underrated and I can understand why, too. But this show definitely will not disappoint!

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When I first started the "SPEC" series, I instantly fell in love with Kamiki Ryunosuke and, having already been in love with Arashi, I stumbled upon this drama series! The cast in this series was better than I thought; everyone seemed to belong in a real family and seemed to act as such (no pun intended). But, I really thought that Kamiki Ryunosuke, Sakurai Sho, and Uragami Seishu outdid themselves. Of course, I liked Itao Itsuji, Suzuki Honami, Kutsuna Shiori as well, but... to me, they seemed to be following along with the story; it was Sakurai, Kamiki, and Uragami that really jumped out at me. I really enjoyed this drama a lot more than I thought I would!

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Genius at Work

The emotional rollercoaster this show has sent me on was not only thrilling and mysterious, but extremely dramatic, epic, intense, and bittersweet. Never in my wildest assumptions did I figure out the truth behind the curiosities throughout this story!


The "genius" suspected of murder and the avenging brother are both quite powerful; their dedication, passion, ingenuity, genuine raw honesty, emotions on their sleeves, and intense battles were quite relatable. The story's beginning until the end is smooth, full of twists and turns, impactful mystery, and bittersweet dramatics. Never would I have assumed the ending, though at some points it was predictable, too. A few things were a little annoying or too creepy for me (personally because i'm a complete scaredy-cat), and some were a little confusing, but overall, nothing was too hard to understand and within a few minutes things were usually described or defined. This is a story about geniuses, after all!


I do wish there were a few more things explained, like from episode 7 or between a couple of characters, otherwise everything seemed to be connected nicely from beginning to end. A couple of characters were really surprising! I never imagined the raw, genuine emotion and strength that came from a few cast members, especially two members of "team Fujiki" -- and that's all I'll say or hint about there!


The story isn't really original, in the aspect that someone loses someone and the other someone wants revenge. However, that's where the known ends and the unknown begins; it was really wonderful to watch each character cross Fujiki Keisuke's path, friend or foe or ally or whoever. To see the people who helped him and vice versa as well as they did, and as often as they did was amazing! I can guarantee that I've never seen something like that in any type of story (movie, tv show, or drama) before; usually there are some "conditions" for someone to help someone else, or consequences to the person needing help or the person giving help. It wasn't like they blindly followed Fujiki or helped him because they owed him, but it seemed like they truly believed in him as a person before they even knew who he was or what he was "up to".


The story was full of rollercoaster twist and turns, I've never been so invested in a show or in a cast before. I wish I knew more about a few characters, and I can't believe what happened to a couple of others! This show is one in a million, the production was really superb and something I wish I could see more of. I already knew a few in the cast were amazing actors/actresses, but in this story I saw a side to them that I've never seen them play before and it was not only super interesting, but sometimes it was sad and creepy and heartbreaking and filled me with pride and made me angry or knocked the breath right out of me. The story was intense right from the beginning of episode one, I could never guess what was going to happen next and I never could begin to guess the ending! This story needs to be seen by more people and I feel like I need a special or movie to conclude some minor questions I (personally) have!


Each actor and actress seemed to be swallowed whole by their character and the show itself seemed to mesh together like a long running movie. I completely forgot the characters were just that.... characters! Forgetting who was playing who as I continued to watch the show, I believed the roles they played so absolutely! In all honesty, it made me want to avoid Yasuda Ken so badly and I felt so awful for Kiriyama Akito. I really hope this story gains more popularity, it is truly one in a million!

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Danger-less Yet Still Dangerous

I'm not sure if this is supposed to be a parody of police/detective/crime dramas or if the writers, directors, staff, creators, actors, and actresses were completely serious in the making of this story. But it is one of my most absolute favorite shows, has a fantastic cast list, and a very unique and talent filled story that I've enjoyed from beginning to end!


The partner team of Suzuki Nobuyuki (Takano Shin) and Sano Hayato (Yonaka Wataru) was perfect! I felt like I was watching a veteran team of detectives at work; each played to their partners strengths and helped to cover or better their weaknesses. It was almost as if there was mind reading involved. Though, not to be outdone, the partner team of Yano Masato (Tsukiga Nashio) and Ino Hiroki (Ikiri Tatsumi) was utterly amazing; their hard work, talents, and chemistry was really intense and fantastic to watch! I'm assuming most people would see the two partner teams as trying to compete to be better than the other(s), and while that does seem apparent for a couple episodes, it also doesn't really seem likely; more so, it seems, that they work together to better the other... even if Tsukiga-san doesn't realize it!


So, while there is no animosity nor huge political issue, this show still did not disappoint! The synopsis and trailer really do help to tell some of the story, neither really tells all of the story. In their own way, both Yonaka-san and Takano-san are hardworking detectives, yet it was almost like watching a character's inner monologue as they were deciding which way to take their careers and how to handle their futures. I was really impressed with how strong, mentally and physically they all worked together throughout this story.


There didn't really seem to be an actual story or plotline throughout, but when I saw the last few episodes, I was completely surprised! There was so much going on that I wished there was more to see; this show is the definition of a cliffhanger. I wish there was more, the story seemed to end while leaving a few unanswered questions, and it felt like there was more that was supposed to be told. Each part of the story really did build up a wonderful foundation; it was really interesting to watch how each case unfolded, with their consequences and actions, but mostly how the two teams of Takano-san and Tsukiga-san worked separately and together at once.


If you're looking for a show that will surpass expectations while still being something of a hidden gem, with hilarity and surprises and twists and endings that no one will ever see coming, while also being one of the best detective/crime shows you'll watch this year then this is definitely a show you should worth checking out!

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Feel Good Epic

This story is simple, sweet, and extremely charming. There are a lot of dramatic scenes within this story, as there were in season one (maybe not as thrilling as some hope, but still), that pair very well with the calming, "serotonin" giving scenes, as well. The "main characters" really do blend in to the show, not once did I think one character/person was the top shining actor/actress; throughout this entire season, everyone involved seems important and has the strength of their own "main character"!


There were so many twists and turns, laugh out loud, worrying and anxious, curiouser and curiouser moments throughout the entire season! I've never wanted to binge watch a show so quickly in my life. Without any added special affects (effects?), such as explosions or the like, the story always managed to keep me on the edge of my seat! The story really focuses more so on the heart of a town's community, the society and humanity of things, the good and the bad (and sometimes the ugly, too).


Saying that, however, this show is not at all "preachy". Not once did I feel or think that I was being "taught" or treated like a child. Each episode really does show the strengths of the characters as they grow from who they were to who they wish to become; a stronger fighter, smarter in politics, work out family troubles, create new businesses, etc... Leaving me with the feeling that the first season also left me with: that I was in the middle of an RPG video game, watching and creating a town that would prosper all while facing difficult, sometimes scary, tasks!


If you're looking for something dark and dramatic, this may not interest you. But if you are looking for something calming, cheerful, cozy, beautiful, and are in to fantasy stories that transport you so completely to another world(s), then this may be your next favorite!


PS: I need to find the song for this season and the first season, I'm way too addicted :P lol

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Beautiful Story Telling

This show was like reading a fantasy book, or watching a fantasy RPG video game in action. Each episode was charming and cozy within Tavern Nobu. The familiar feeling of Midnight Diner was certainly there, however, this tavern really does have a life of its own!


I really liked how each character began as a brand new interaction and then slowly integrated into the story; almost as if you were growing your traveling party in a game. With each new character you got a new set of information about the town, or new powers or skills to add to your group. This show has a very calming-"serotonin"-like feel to it, which the music supported very well; almost sending me in to a trance a couple of times! Each episode introduced a new character or a new food for Nobu, so it was like learning something new each time without the need for unnecessary and sometimes cheesy dramatics. If you're looking for a calm, cheerful, enthralling, magical show then this show is definitely for you!


I'm curious as to why they only had a handful of backstory for the "two main characters" (i don't think there was truly any "main" character[s] within this show; everyone really had their own time in the spotlight), however, and I would love to know more about not only their backstory, but where they and Tavern Nobu go from here! I'm so glad there's a special and two more seasons!


I can see why people would compare this show to Midnight Diner, but I can guarantee that, while it is definitely familiar, that it is also definitely NOT Midnight Diner's exact copy within a fantasy world. This story is whimsical, full of fantastical things and epic stories, not to mention the atmosphere of the show is completely different. With this show, I feel like I stepped in to a video game or in to a fantasy anime or book. This show had me captivated from episode one! This is one of the most creative, imaginative, unique, talented, genuinely realistic(ish), funny, honest, and enthralling shows I have ever seen.

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Best Legal Team!

It has been a long time since I've seen such a fantastic, strong team within the legal field! The last few legal drama's I've watched (including police/detective) were fascinating as well but, including this show, I've only seen 3 legal dramas focusing on the courtroom (i think it's 3). This story was intense, relatable, genuine, and one of the best I have seen all year... and its only October!


The teamwork between Arimura Kasumi, Nakamura Tomoya, and Akaso Eiji was wonderful to watch; it was as if they had been partners within the business for a long time! Each story had so many twists and turns, I'm glad the legal terms weren't as confusing as I thought they would be because I would have been lost. I never once predicted how a case would end, and the last few episodes had me on the edge of my seat with the wind knocked out of me!


The cases for this show were very unique, I don't remember seeing anything like them before unless it was a specific case focused on throughout the whole drama/movie/special. There were some familiar feelings, but not too strong that I felt like I was watching more episodes of a show/movie/special I had already watched. Mostly, I think, the familiar was with a scene or two that reminded me of another show in its entirety, or a specific moment in a case that reminded me of a certain actor/actress.


The music was really nice. Very calm, clean, and absolutely perfect for setting the tone and mood for either the next moment or the next episode(s). It was also nice to see actors/actresses in roles (good, bad, genius, powerful, weak, etc) that I wasn't used to seeing them as. In America we have the habit of "type casting" actors/actresses in to certain roles for their entire careers, or at least good portions of their careers; so it was nice to see, in Japan, the way these actors/actresses that I am familiar with and follow their careers that they have this strong, raw, beautiful talent of blending in splendidly with their characters and roles during a show/movie/special.


This story was very raw and honest. I could feel the strength of emotion through the screen! It didn't get too dark or overly cheesy with dramatics, which it could have a couple of times so that was surprising! But, please, don't let that assumption persuade you not to watch or that this show is "happy-go-lucky" within the law/legal genre, because that could not be further from the truth. The strength, power, and intensity of this show is insane! A very strong story was brought forth by a very powerful, beautiful, magical story cast, writer(s), directors, and support staff! This show is a powerhouse!

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Enchanting Cinema

Going to the movies always feels like going into a really dramatic daydream for me. Action, heartbreak, suspense, horror, epic drama, the list could go on forever! This story is not at all what I thought it would be, in fact it exceeded my expectations in every way..... and then some!

At first I thought this would be about "the movies", then I thought it would be about "the theater", and it was about both (in a way) but in all honesty, this story was so much more than just what you see on its surface. Watching the "behind the scenes" work was truly fascinating, I've never seen any style like this before or anything similar. I know other shows that go in to detail, but this show really went above and beyond to make sure the customers (and viewers) not only understood the process of theaters, movies, and the behind the scenes workings, but the details of each job. Watching such an attention to detail, thrilling, hilarious, heartwarming show was very charming and left me feeling very warm and fuzzy; especially the last episode.


Going to theaters is sort of tricky right now, considering Covid-19 is still out there, but watching this show made me feel like I was a part of something bigger than myself to create this lovely dream world of movies and stories for the customers to enjoy. Each episode really focused well on the hard work it takes to run a business, but also the importance of taking care of the staff so they can take care of the business and the customers; it was really amazing to see how each staff member grew as a person to better understand how to fulfill their job and as a member of a team. There were not a lot of cheesy dramatics, but the reactions of a few of the staff were absolutely real, honest, and genuine. I love seeing a genuine, hard working climb-to-the-top story!

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