It took me a while to get used to this type of Japanese drama where it's showing comical actions similar to manga/anime style. I like it though after a few episodes, the music is top-notch, it's something I look forward to when I watch an episode. Acting is ok, wouldn't say it's the best I've seen but they have charm, the actor playing Mine is really good though, I like his acting. I haven't read the manga or watched the anime yet, so I don't know how true the live-action is to the original work, but I was expecting it to be focused more on Nodame's story, which in the drama, specials and movies it didn't really, it's more like Chiaki is the main character. While there should be really no complains about it being Chiaki's story but still I was hoping for more of Nodame's growth, but it was so slow and I really wish they focused on her more cos I really want to know more, she isn't a simple character after all, she has more depth but I don't think it was fully utilized. Also there's some really good supporting cast on this with their own background and story to share, just wished the director focused on that as well. Anyways, I'm recommending this drama, it's fun, lively and the musical scores are great.