Rating: Loved

Recommended for those searching for a procedural about more than just the “case of the week,” featuring stellar writing and an exceptional ensemble cast lead by a fabulous actress, who openly embraces not being a twenty-something.

Every season, the Japanese networks are flooded with new procedural dramas. Most are just OK (predictable, since the nature of the genre is pretty formulaic), but every once in a while, writers create a true gem, and BOSS is one of the brightest in the bunch. Though episodic by nature, it’s easy to get drawn into both each and every case and the colorful (to say the least) characters who solve them.

Synopsis

Osawa Eriko (Amami Yuki) returns to Japan’s police force from an extended period of “training” in the U.S.. At the behest of Assistant Councilor Nodate Shinjiro (Takenouchi Yutaka), she takes the position heading the new Special Crimes Unit, which she’s initial told is made up of each department’s creme de la creme. It doesn’t take long for her to realize that she’s instead been saddled with a band of misfit detective who are deemed unsuitable for the job by their previous bosses. There’s unmotivated tech specialist Kimoto (Toda Erika), disillusioned and shooting-impaired Katagiri (Tamayama Tetsuji), rookie Hanagata (Mizobata Junpei), sexual harasser Iwai (Kendo Kobayashi), and chronically absentminded Yamamura (Nukumizu Youichi). Despite their shortcomings, as they slowly learn to depend and trust one another, they develop into a force to be reckoned with.

Thoughts

I’ve always been a fan of really well done procedurals, but there’s something particularly wonderful about BOSS. The writing is solid throughout with some perfectly timed twists and turns, but what I think what makes this drama so much more memorable than many others of the same ilk is the unusual cast of characters, the anchor of which is, of course, Osawa Eriko. Osawa’s long-time friendship with Nodate and the relationships she cultivates between her staff (particularly Kimoto and Katagiri) are as key to the storyline as whatever case-of-the-week must be solved. She’s at times a friend, a mentor, a confidante, a disciplinarian, and more, but at no point is she anything less than professional, albeit one with an occasionally wicked sense of humor.

Amami’s portrayal of Osawa is excellent, and all the cast members that make up her investigative team put forth solid performances as well, with Toda and Tamayama given the largest opportunities to flesh out their characters due to plot structure. I was particularly impressed with Toda, whose performances I’ve often enjoyed but by which I was rarely blown away. There are a handful of moments where it becomes clear that, given the right kind of material, she can shine as brightly as a lead as strong as Amami.

Takenouchi Yutaka’s role as the intelligent and opportunistic Nodate is also well-performed, but it seems a bit of a waste to cast a usually admirable actor as a character given little time to develop beyond a somewhat two-dimensional dandy. Yes, he’s a good looking guy, so as far as eye-candy goes, I can’t complain, but I would have liked to see a bit more about his back story. At least once an episode, Nodate would say something somewhat cryptic or would allude to the past in a way which implied his connection to Osawa was a bit deeper at some point, but we never get to really scratch far beyond the surface of their relationship.

And since we’re already on the subject of cast members, if you watch only one episode of BOSS, I would strongly recommend you check out the one featuring Shida Mirai as Ishihara Yuki, a young genius and suspect in a murder case. Shida’s undoubtedly one of the best guest stars in the show’s run and plays Ishihara is a character at once easy to dislike and easy to empathize with. The writers cleverly give each cast member at least a few moments of screen time with her allowing for some impressive scenes that are times hilarious and a little bit on the creepy side. Her interactions with Amami are particularly impressive (no surprise), whether the two are verbally duking it out or strategically trying to out think the other.

One of my favorite aspects of the drama was that the writers didn’t shy away from the difficulties I would imagine almost any female detective would have were she to suddenly be placed as the head of a department. Osawa’s constantly butting heads with peers and superiors who feel that she’s not up to snuff – often citing her gender as a weakness. The writers could have focused on some other perceived flaw, but instead went with the likely reality. The bureaucratic red-tape (found in any nation), isn’t hidden away, and the higher-ups are designed to be disliked and mistrusted from the get-go.

As much as I love BOSS, though, the drama is not without flaws. Iwai, an openly gay character, is often played solely for laughs, which gets old very quickly. I generally enjoy Kendo Kobayashi, and I don’t really see the issue as being his fault. The character is clearly just there for the laugh factor, and while I certainly am aware of the differences in cultural depictions of gay characters, I just don’t think it adds anything to the story. When he’s not hitting on every good-looking man that crosses his path, he can be a very cute (if bumbling) character, so I wish they would have let that aspect of his personality shine more.

On the whole, though, I was able to see beyond the things that irked me and focused on the aspects that made the series thoroughly enjoyable.

Final thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a show you can watch straight through or one that’s easy to pick up every once in a while, you can’t go wrong with BOSS. It’s familiar procedural format makes it an easy J-drama gateway series, but its clever writing and excellent cast make it worthwhile even for the most jaded of drama auteurs.

First aired: April 22, 2008

Rating: Loved

Recommended for foodies and those looking for comedy mixed with insights into traditional Japanese food culture; bonus for fans of Aoi Yu.

I was thrilled when I heard Kikuchi Shota’s manga Osen was getting a live-action drama, but as news about the cast started to trickle in, I started to have some misgivings. I love Aoi Yu, but I wasn’t really sure if she could capture the Handa Sen (Osen) character, and I’ve never been an Uchi Hiroki fan, so that was an immediate bummer. When I sat down to watch, though, I quickly grew to enjoy the drama’s tone, no matter how it differed from the manga. Aoi’s Osen ended up being a total charmer, as was the entire series.

Synopsis

Ezaki Yoshio (Uchi Hiroki) is a talented young chef (at least in his own mind) who leaves the bustling high-end hotel restaurant kitchens he’s familiar with and instead makes his way to Isshouan, a well-respected, traditional Japanese restaurant where he seeks to polish his skills. Though he has little in the way of references, the seemingly bubble-headed proprietress Handa Sen (Aoi Yu) accepts him into her fold of chefs. Though her relaxed manner at first leaves Ezaki doubting her abilities, Sen quickly reveals herself to be a genius with food, despite her unorthodox personality.

As the days go by, Ezaki struggles to find his footing as the bottom rung chef in Isshouan’s kitchen. Eventually, he begins to embrace the techniques his seniors employ that are rooted in years of tradition. Food becomes more than just something to eat, and as his abilities grow, so does his understanding of why it’s necessary to keep certain traditions alive no matter what dish is being prepared.

Thoughts

There’s something special about Aoi’s portrayal of Sen that makes the character (and consequently, the entire series) impossible not to love. It’s her own unique vision of the character, and while I was unsure she’d be able to pull it off, I’m not too proud to admit my worries ended up going nowhere. Aoi’s Sen is sweet, slightly daffy, and brilliantly talented – a brand of character Aoi plays to perfection – and had another actress taken on the role, it might have resulted in a character so treacly I wouldn’t have liked her at all. At times she seems almost childlike, and at others, she’s the epitome of a composed adult. Finding a balance between playing those extremes and not being annoying is no small feat.

I would definitely describe Aoi’s performance as a highlight of the series, but there’s plenty more to enjoy about the drama. If you have any interest in food, Japanese culture and history, or artisan crafts, you’ll definitely find something to which you can connect. Amidst the occasionally slapstick-style character antics, Osen is packed full of facts and tidbits about Japanese food-culture I never thought to be curious about.

Have you ever wondered what makes real katsuobushi so expensive? Ever thought about why seemingly similar kinds of miso can taste entirely different? Osen manages to offer answers to those kinds of questions without ever feeling like a classroom lecture. It explores the craft and skills required to make artisanal goods, but then takes that information and ties it to common plights that the individuals working in those fields might have to face – from economic issues that come with the advent of mass-produced alternatives to legacy worries and the loss of supplies. It’s not a PSA, but a warm welcoming message asking us to see more than just a row of supplies at the grocery store.

Final word

Osen is a thoroughly entertaining ten-episode peek into a fascinating world I was previously all but totally unaware of. The art that goes into making certain dishes (and into certain ingredients) is utterly amazing to me. Buying local and fresh is a big deal to a lot of foodies in the West, but it’s interesting to see just how intense (and moving) that sentiment can be.

First aired: August 11, 2010

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who like a touch of fantasy in their romantic comedies; bonus for fans of cute, older secondary couples.

As much as I love the Hong sisters (Hong Gil Dong), Shin Min Ah (My Mighty Princess), and Lee Seung Gi (Brilliant Legacy), I was a little late to the party on My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho. I have no idea why I didn’t pick it up immediately as it definitely hits almost all my favorite drama elements, but I’m actually glad I ended up holding off for YA Ent.’s DVD box set, as it allowed me to quickly marathon the entire series from the comfort of my sofa. And when I say marathon, I mean marathon. Once I started, I absolutely couldn’t stop and spent the better part of two days laughing, crying and flailing about over countless scenes of utterly adorable behavior.

Synopsis

Cha Dae Woong (Lee Seung Gi) is your fairly typical K-drama rich boy – spoiled, self-indulgent, and lacking much drive. What makes him unique is his almost immediately apparent inherently decent nature, which in many other series doesn’t show itself until several episodes in. His recent dream is to become a famous action star, though his desire to always take the easy road is clearly a major obstacle.

When Dae Woong is stranded at an old temple (due to some wonderfully ridiculous antics, which include a one-legged hop to the restroom), he is tricked into releasing a 500-year-old gumiho (Shin Min Ah), whom legend says will eat the livers of men in order to become human. Rather than devouring him, the gumiho (later dubbed Gu Mi Ho) saves Dae Woong’s life and ends up tying herself to his side for at least as long as it takes him to heal. As time passes, the two discover that staying together could be mutual beneficial, but the shady machinations of a mysterious man (No Min Woo) make the duo’s situation even more complicated – and perhaps even deadly!

Thoughts

First of all, My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho features some of the best pacing of any drama I’ve seen in a good long while. Scenarios that are many times annoyingly dragged out in other dramas, are almost always quickly resolved, propelling the plot forward at an excitingly brisk pace. There was never a moment when I found myself thinking, “Dude, just tell her!” Even some of my favorite series include episodes that make me ask, “Didn’t we just deal with this issue last week?,” but that never happens in Gumiho.

The drama also boasts a great ensemble cast (including a very cute role from T-ara’s Hyo Min) that consistently puts forth solid performances. There are a few slightly clunky scenes from Lee Seung Gi, particularly when he’s required to recite some of the drama’s most impassioned lines, but those moments are pretty few and far between. Most of the time, his portrayal of Dae Woong is totally respectable. Shin Min Ah’s performance as Mi Ho is wonderful as always, and she manages to imbue the character with a charming innocence. In another actress’ less skilled hands, the character could have simply seemed like an idiot.

The secondary and slightly older couple, Cha Min Sook (Yoon Yoo Sun) and Director Ban (Sung Dong Il), provide moments of hilarity in almost every episode and have their own share of ups and downs, including a fight brought on by Ban’s fanatical love for Chow Yun Fat memorabilia (so random, so wonderful). I rooted for them almost as much as I did Dae Woong and Mi Ho.

There are two kinds of obstacles that pop up frequently in the series, the first of which are the less serious and easily dealt with complications usually brought on my Dae Woong’s first love, Eun Hye In (Park Soo Jin). She becomes a green-eyed monster once it appears that Dae Woong is taken, despite the fact that she never made a move on him in the past and technically has no claim on him. She’s petty and childish, and the road blocks she throws up to hinder Dae Woong and Mi Ho’s relationship are pretty ordinary in the grand scheme of K-dramas. If these were the only problems the main couple had to face, the show would have been far less exciting to watch.

Their combination with the far more dangerous issues brought on by Park Dong Joo (No Min Woo), however, imbues the series with a sense of urgency that can be felt throughout. Hye In’s prank-like problems pepper the plot, but are almost laughable as they are each efficiently resolved. The hindrance created by Dong Joo is always in the background, though, a looming disaster just out of Dae Woong and Mi Ho’s sight.

Final words

If you’re in the mood for a fast-paced, out of the ordinary romance, I highly recommend giving My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho a chance. Its blend of romance, slapstick comedy, fantasy sequences (think Ally MacBeal, but not annoying), and adorable characters makes this spin on the gumiho myth a series I think fans will keep coming back to over the years.

Pride

First aired: January 12, 2004

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of contract relationship antics, Kimutaku, and Takeuchi Yuko, with a side of high-intensity emotions that go along with sports stories.

I never imagined that one of my all-time favorite dramas would end up being about contract dating, but somehow, Pride manages to press all the right buttons for me. I couldn’t have dreamed up a better cast (I kid you not – every single one of the main actors is on my faves list), and the tension between the two leads starts sizzling from the moment they clap eyes on one another. It even features a Queen theme song! It’s like the drama gods wrote a series especially for me.

Synopsis

Aki (Takeuchi Yuko) is an ordinary office lady devoted to a long distance relationship with her boyfriend (Tanihara Shosuke) whom she hasn’t seen for a very long period of time. When she meets charismatic ice hockey player Halu (Kimura Takuya), it’s definitely not love at first site, but both feel an instant spark that gains strength each time their paths cross. Though their personalities are as different as night and day – she’s patient and reserved, and he’s impulsive and insouciant – they find comfort in their outwardly opposite natures. Realizing their growing attraction, the two agree that, until Aki’s absentee boyfriend returns (or Halu grows bored), they’ll continue to see one another. However, when they make their pact, they never expect that attraction might turn into something more.

Thoughts

Though classified as a human drama, this is the show I turn to time and again when I need a dose of true blue romance. While some acting duos are consistently very believable (Kimura and Matsu Takako, for example), there’s something special about Kimura and Takeuchi’s chemistry. I don’t know if it’s solely because of the characters they play or an extra special vibe that exists between the two of them, but I love it! There are moments, even early on, where you can practically feel the tension radiating off of them, and it’s just magic to watch.

And while I could be perfectly happy watching Halu and Aki interact for the entirety of the drama, I never grow annoyed with the side stories that periodically creep up to take center stage – particularly the one that focuses on Halu’s turbulent relationship with his new coach (Sato Koichi). The secondary lead couples all have their share of time in the spotlight, but even when they’re on screen, each of their stories are key to propelling the central couple’s actions forward – there’s no such thing as “filler” in the Pride universe.

Though the primary obstacle, Aki’s lingering feelings for her long absent boyfriend and her sense of duty to the relationship, isn’t in any way a surprise, it’s handled in such a way that I can understand why she doesn’t immediately chuck it all for Halu. And it’s not as though Halu doesn’t have some major flaws – he’s essentially the poster child for commitment-phobes. But even his penchant for walking away from meaningful relationships is given a reason, and it happens to be covered in my favorite episode of the series.

Final words

If you’ve ever longed for a drama filled with real kisses (as opposed to piddly pecks we’re usually subjected to) between a couple with crazy good sizzle, then you absolutely have to try Pride. The writing (from screenwriter Nojima Shinji) is solid throughout, and plays perfectly to each cast member’s strengths resulting in excellent performances no matter who is on screen at any time.

First aired: October 14, 2009

Rating: Loved

Recommended for people who enjoy food, short stories, and/or dramas where each episode focuses on a new character and centers on one particular theme (in this case, a particular Japanese dish); bonus for fans of existential literature and philosophy.

I wasn’t really expecting much when Shinya Shokudo showed up on my radar (I’m not really a fan of the thirty minute series format), but I was in the mood for a drama about food, and it seemed to at least satisfy that qualifier. I figured I’d give it a shot – if I didn’t like it, I’d only be out half an hour. Five hours later, I decided to never again judge a series on the minute count.

Synopsis:

Shinya Shokudo (Midnight Restaurant) is an odd, aptly named little eatery slightly off the beaten path of what seems to be a busy shopping district. It’s open from midnight to 7:00 a.m., and the chef and owner (Kobayashi Kaoru), known only as “Master” throughout the series, offers a menu of just one item. However, if the ingredients are available, he’ll make customers whatever they request.

Though small, the restaurant has a dedicated clientele of regulars who show up night after night for their favorite dishes – from sausages cut to look like tiny octopi to katsudon and everything in between. Each episode introduces both a customer and his favorite dish and subsequently offers glimpses of his life away from Shinya Shokudo. Some tales are sad or bittersweet, while others hopeful, but all launch from the nostalgia induced by eating a familiar comfort food.

Thoughts:

With episodes that run a little under thirty minutes, it’s easy to breeze straight through the 10-episode drama, but the series’ pacing never feels (nor makes the viewer feel) rushed. It’s relaxed, and time just slips by. Were this a standard drama with one main story arc, that would probably be considered a major problem, but Shinya Shokudo is a series as unusual as the restaurant in which it takes place.

The colorful individuals (some more so than others) that populate the series are a strange crew with little in common, but that’s the crux of the show.
Despite individual differences, the warm connection they all have to a particular dish is a shared response, one that immediately called out to my own nostalgia for foods from my childhood, effectively making me feel as much a part of the show’s world as the people on the screen. I don’t think it’s much of a stretch to say that almost anyone who feels similarly about comfort food (Eastern or Western) would also have the same reaction.

Themes covered – missed chances, love, loss, death, regret – also feed into the concept of individuality within shared conditions. Who hasn’t experienced loss or love of some kind? But no two people’s stories could ever be exactly the same. We are alone, but together.

I’m sure the tangled web of thoughts I just spewed make this series sound far more somber than it really is, but those looking for a laugh out loud brand of comedy (and technically this is classified as a comedy) are probably going to want to look elsewhere. Most episodes include at least a bit of humor, but since each episode asks characters to reflect and look within themselves to deal with their current situations, the show’s tone is pretty even keel. It’s basically an existentialist literature fan’s dream series.

Final words:

If eating a particular dish has ever caused you to reflect on moments from your past, I absolutely recommend you give Shinya Shokudo a chance. It’ll leaving you reflecting on both the lives of the characters and your own, and isn’t that the true a sign of an effective drama?

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for a romance that grows slowly over time – bonus for those who enjoy human dramas featuring the strong bonds between family members.

It took me a little while to finish Nagareboshi (not a fault of the show, but an issue with my time management skills), but now that I’ve watched the entire 10-episode series, I can wholeheartedly recommend it to readers as a consistently well-written and acted drama that will assuredly move you to both tears and smiles throughout. The series is as much a family drama as it is a romance, and deft (as always) direction by Miyamoto Rieko (Kaze no Garden, Haikei, Chichiue-sama), draws excellent performances from the entire cast.

Synopsis

Okada Kengo (Takenouchi Yutaka) is an honest, good man who leads a thoroughly fulfilling life. He loves the sea and works at an aquarium where he’s respected by his fellow workers and seniors, he shares a close, healthy relationship with his mother and younger sister (Kitano Kii), and he’s set to marry a long-time friend whom his family also happens to adore. Everything is on track. So when his sister’s health (which has always been weak but controlled) suddenly plummets to dangerous levels, desperation forces him to make quick choices – some of questionable ethics and others of questionable legality.

When Kengo repeatedly crosses paths with a troubled young woman named Makihara Risa (Ueto Aya), he makes her an offer that could possibly solve his family’s problems as well as hers – a contract marriage in which she agrees to act as an organ donor for his sister, while he pays off debts incurred by her’s shiftless brother (Inagaki Goro). Of course, things don’t go exactly as planned and complications arise as feelings begin to grow between Kengo and Risa.

Thoughts

Contract marriages aren’t exactly a new theme in dramas, but when well-executed, they allow us to witness the slow build-up of romantic tension between the leads, which is often just as entertaining and engrossing a “lust/love at first sight” situation. You can feel the chemistry, but it’s not necessarily like a smack over the head. It’s subtler and, in a way, more believable.

Ueto nabbed the Television Drama Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Risa, and it is definitely well deserved, but Takenouchi and Kitano also put forth equally moving performances in their respective roles. And while I have never been a big Goro fan as far as acting goes (and yes, I always refer to him by his first name as is dictated by the SMAP fandom), he does an admirable job as Risa’s utterly detestable older brother Makihara Shuichi.

If I had to choose a weak link in the cast, it would be Matsuda Shota, who plays Kitano’s ethically conflicted doctor. It’s not that his performance is particularly poor – it’s not at all. He just doesn’t really strike me as fitting the character particularly well. Most of the time, I thought he was great, but every once in a while, a really youthful mannerism or tone would pop up causing me to ask, “Who let this kid have a stethoscope?”

[And here's a heads up on one theme that might (maybe not) cause some head scratching. If you aren't particularly familiar with how Japanese culture views the issue of organ donation, you might want to do some prep work and quickly see if you can find any info about it (though take most reports with a grain of salt). But even if you go into the show blind, I think the emotions from the performances should carry through.]

Final words

I strongly recommend this drama to all those looking for more than just a romance, but a story about how love can change all relationships – from the romantic to the platonic and familial. It’s a warm, moving series that explores how just a little kindness can help shape us into the people we’re meant to be.

And so it begins. This is the perpetually growing list of all the dramas I’ve seen over the last several years. Some minor spoilers might appear, but I don’t think there’s anything that would a ruin a show for anyone.

Ando Natsu

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who enjoy female-centric coming of age stories that focus on artisan (traditional Japanese confections, in this case) career paths and/or foodies.

Atashinchi no Danshi

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy with multiple possible pairings akin to reverse-harem manga (think Ouran High School Host Club minus the high school and all but one host).

Bambino

Rating: Barely befriended

Recommended for Matsujun and/or hardcore foodie fans who enjoy male-centric coming of age stories.

Bara no Nai Hanaya

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those interested in family dramas and romances where hidden agendas play a major part; bonus for fans of Katori Shingo who does a surprisingly solid job in a heavy dramatic role.

Beautiful Life

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for fans of stories where love almost conquers all and for those who like watching romances with a box of tissues nearby; bonus for fans of excellent ending sequences.

BOSS

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those searching for a procedural with a twist featuring stellar writing and an exceptional ensemble cast lead by a fabulous actress, who openly embraces not being a twenty-something.

Boys Before Flowers

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for fans of poor girl/rich boy relationship dynamics, extremely pretty people, and outrageous but entirely entertaining situations; must be able to overlook major breaks in continuity from original story.

Capital Scandal

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of romantic screwball comedy dynamics (think Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant) mixed with 1930s era Korean political intrigue.

Celeb to Binbo Taro

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who enjoy rich girl/poor boy stories, but with the added complication of three adorable children (his).

City Hall

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who like a healthy dose of angst and politics mixed in with their romantic comedies; bonus for fans of Kim Sun Ah and Cha Seung Won, both of whom look hella beautiful throughout (though Kim’s perm is kind of a creature unto itself for the first half).

Damo

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for wuxia fans who love strong female leads and epically complicated romantic relationships that involve themes of class, loyalty, duty and vengeance; must also be OK with tragedy.

Dream High

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who wish weekly shows like Glee had a little more in common with the original Fame film; bonus for JYP fans (his role is hilarious and played to a “T”.

Gokusen

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of strong female leads whose personalities can turn on a dime from shy and unassuming to utterly ass-kicking; also for fans of ikemen.

Hana Yori Dango

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for fans of teen romances with a poor girl/rich boy dynamic and the pluckiest of female leads (and who doesn’t love Inoue Mao?); bonus for fans of ikemen (Matsujun, Oguri Shun, Matsuda Shota, Abe Tsuyoshi).

Hana Yori Dango Returns

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of the original series.

Hanazakari no Kimitachi e (a.k.a. Hana Kimi)

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of warm and fuzzy high school romances complicated by hidden genders and populated with extremely attractive students.

Hong Gil Dong

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fusion drama fans who want their sageuks to include plenty of humor tempered with action sequences, political intrigue, romance, and vengeance quests; bonus for fans of epic love triangles.

Hotaru no Hikari, Seasons 1 & 2

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those interested in very female-centric stories, workplace romances and josei manga; bonus for those who enjoy female leads who show legitimate (though somewhat slow) and believable growth.

Innocent Love

Rating: Ended before it began

Recommended for fans of Horikita Maki, well-acted melodrama, and heavier themes (murder, incest, suicide, etc.).

Jin

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of both visually stunning jidaigeki and medical series along with those intrigued by the concept of a time travel inducing fetus.

Jotei

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who like strong female characters and exploring the worlds surrounding alternative careers intrinsic to Japanese nightlife.

Kamisama Mou Sukoshi

Ratings: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those who enjoy heavier, reality-based themes mixed in with their fantasy romances (Ex.: handsome celebrity falls for ordinary girl); bonus for fans of Kaneshiro Takeshi and Fukada Kyoko.

Ketsuekigatabetsu Onna ga Kekkon Suru Hoho

Ratings: Liked

Recommended for those who enjoy love stories and short series where each episode focuses on a new character; bonus for those interested in blood type theories.

Kimi wa Pet

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for those looking for “older” female leads (late 20s, early 30s) and unlikely, yet uplifting romances with the ability to change the most stubborn of personalities; bonus for fans of adorably gawky-era MatsuJun.

Konkatsu!

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for romances about the complications of orchestrated romantic meetings and difficulties of finding love after you’ve reached a certain age.

Kurosagi

Rating: Barely befriended

Recommended for those who enjoy super-skilled lead characters that use hustlers’ tricks to punish evildoers; bonus for Yamapi and Horikita Maki fans.

Legend

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who enjoy grand, sweeping sageuks but wish they had more elements of fantasy.

Love Generation

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those who enjoy 90s era “trendy” dramas (this is definitely one of the best) and the stellar combo of Kimura and Takako.

Love Shuffle

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of ensemble comedies and those who like to root for multiple couples throughout the course of a series.

Lunch Queen

Rating: Loved

Recommended for foodies and those who enjoy comedies with a touch of romance and family dynamics.

Magerarenai Onna

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those interested in a drama focusing on a woman’s journey to find happiness and the strength of her lifelong friendship with a woman who seems like her polar opposite.

Maou

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of heavier themes and lifelong vengeance quests anchored by strong dramatic performances; bonus for K-drama fans who want to dive into J-dramas.

Mary Stayed Out All Night (a.k.a. Marry Me, Mary)

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for fans of love triangles that make choosing the “right” romantic pair far more difficult than it should be; bonus for those who enjoy musical elements credibly tossed into their dramas.

Massagu na Otoko

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those who enjoy slow building relationships and anti-badboy leads; bonus for Sato Ryuta fans.

Mei-chan no Shitsuji

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of delicious crack who are willing to let go of logic and reason and embrace the theme of ultra rich girls attending school with their devoted (and handsome) butlers.

Mischievous Kiss

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those looking for plucky, charmingly sweet heroines who aren’t Pollyannas and fans of the manga; bonus for SS501 fans.

Mop Girl

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who love ensemble casts of quirky and lovable characters and procedural style shows with supernatural touches.

Mother

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for a serious, brilliantly acted human drama about the bond between a lonely woman and the child she comes to care for as her own.

Mr. Brain

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of mystery procedural shows and brilliant but emotionally disconnected lead male characters; bonus for fans of Mizushima Hiro who takes on a rather ridiculous (but adorable) secondary role as a rookie detective.

My Little Chef

Rating: Liked

Recommended for foodies and those who like quiet, but skilled female leads who don’t necessarily change as much as cause change in those around them; bonus for fans of Abe Hiroshi.

My Lovely Sam-Soon

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for lead characters who are a little bit wonky but utterly lovable and for those who love seeing delicious desserts; bonus for young Hyun Bin fans.

My Girl (J-drama)

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of heartwarming family dramas, particularly those that explore the relationship between fathers and daughters.

My Girl (K-drama)

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who like enjoy romances that focus on poor girl/rich boy dynamics; bonus for fans of secondary leads that give first leads a run for their money.

My Princess

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who enjoy Roman Holiday and other romances where love must conquer obstacles like duty and fortune (or loss – not lack – thereof); bonus for fans of adorableness because there are plenty of super cute moments littered throughout.

Nagareboshi

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for a romance that grows slowly over time – bonus for those who enjoy human dramas featuring the strong bonds between family members.

Ninkyo Helper

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who like to blend dramatic themes and admirable performances with highly entertaining, often hilarious crack; bonus for yakuza-lite fans.

Nobuta wo Produce

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those in search of high school coming of age stories that focus more on the complexities of friendship and growing up than on romance.

Nodame Cantabile

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of slapstick comedy, romance and ridiculous characters, and extremely good music (of the classical variety).

Osen

Rating: Loved

Recommended for foodies and those looking for elements of comedy mixed with insights into traditional Japanese food culture; bonus for fans of Yu Aoi.

Pasta

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for fans of misanthropic alpha-male leads and mentor/mentee relationships; bonus for foodies.

Personal Taste

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who enjoy dramas where the lead couple is thrown into cohabitation and all the hilarious complications that inevitably arise.

Pride

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of contract relationship antics, Kimutaku, and Takeuchi Yuko, with a side of high-intensity emotions that go along with sports stories.

Rookies

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who love delinquents, comedy, stories that explore the bonds of friendship, and baseball; bonus for fans of ikemen.

Remote

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of quirky and occasionally creepy episodic procedurals that feature leads with plenty of sizzle; bonus for fans of Domoto Koichi and Fukada Kyoko.

Ryusei no Kizuna

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of vengeance tales and mysteries that manage to remain upbeat through scenes of oft ridiculous (but totally enjoyable) situations.

Shinya Shokudo

Rating: Loved

Recommended for people who enjoy food, short stories, and/or dramas where each episode focuses on a new character and centers on one particular theme (in this case, a particular Japanese dish); bonus for fans of existential literature and philosophy.

Stand Up

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those looking for a PG-rated high school sex farce minus pretty much all the sex but including the awkward and often hilarious moments that go along with it; bonus for fans of ikemen.

Sungkyunkwan Scandal

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for those who enjoy romantic fusion sageuks where the friendships between the main characters are as key to the story as the central romance.

Tamra Island

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those who enjoy fusion sageuks like SungKyungKwan Scandal, beautiful settings, and hilarious secondary characters; bonus for Jung Juri fans.

Teppan Shoujo Akane

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who’ve always wondered what it would be like if you combined a female-centered coming of age story with shounen manga style antics and Iron Chef situations; bonus for Horikita Maki and foodie fans.

Tokujo Kabachi!!

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of “case of the week” shows mixed with a touch of slapstick-style humor and just a hint of romance; bonus for Arashi and Sakurai Sho fans.

Tokyo Dogs

Rating: Loved

Recommended for fans of buddy-cop shows with tons of humor mixed in with scenes of action; bonus for fans of Oguri Shun and Mizushima Hiro.

Trick

Rating: Married (and had its babies)

Recommended for fans of mismatched romantic leads and shows that bridge the gap between The X-files and Moonlighting.

Tsubasa no Oreta Tenshitachi

Rating: Liked

Recommended for short story fans who are interested in seeing early dramatic (and very strong) performances from some of today’s most sought after lead actresses.

Tsuki no Koibito

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those looking for somewhat unconventional romances featuring characters who are in the thirties; bonus for those in search of phenomenal “confession” scenes.

Winter Sonata

Rating: Barely befriended

Recommended for Bae Yong Joon fans and those who love melodramatic romances; bonus for drama newbies interested in seeing one of the biggest Hallyu wave series.

The Woman Who Still Wants to Marry

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for an unconventional romance featuring a relationship between an intelligent woman in her thirties and a young man ten years her junior.

Yamada Taro Monogatari

Rating: Liked

Recommended for fans of comedies that explore young friendships and “fish out of water” syndrome.

Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge (a.k.a. The Wallflower)

Rating: Loved

Recommended for those looking for the opposite of a Pygmalion story (where the subject changes her charges more than the reverse) and for fans of slapstick humor laden romances.

Yaoh

Rating: Liked

Recommended for those who like humorous dramatizations of Tokyo nightlife and host culture; bonus for fans of Matsuoka Masahiro and Kitamura Kazuki.

Zettai Kareshi

Rating: Fling(ed)

Recommended for those looking for a sweet, lighthearted workplace romance, with plenty of humor and quirks (hello, robot love interest); bonus for fans of Mizushima Hiro.

Special Features:
Interview with Park Shi Hoo
Interview with Kim So Yeon
Brilliant Legacy sneak peek

Specs:
U.S., Region 1, NTSC
YA Entertainment
6-discs
Approximately 16 hours
16:9, anamorphic widescreen
Not Rated
Korean audio
English subtitles

See the full packaging spotlight at AsianPopShock!

Special Features:
Kim Sun Ah interviews and commentaries

Specs:
U.S. Region 1, NTSC
YA Entertainment
7-discs
20 hours
16:9, anamorphic widescreen
Not rated
Korean audio
English subtitles

See the full packaging spotlight at AsianPopShock.

Special Features:
“Behind the Scenes” featurette
Interviews
Gag reel

Specs:
U.S. Region 1, NTSC
YA Entertainment
8-discs
21 hours, plus 141 minutes of special features
16:9, anamorphic widescreen
Not rated
Korean audio
English subtitles

See the full packaging spotlight at AsianPopShock!