Nankyoku Tairiku (2011)

Someone recommended me this drama back when it was airing, I remember I added it and stuck it on my list without thinking about it much. A little while ago we recently adopted a dog from the shelter that's an Alaskan Malamute mix and I came across this drama again. The fact that this drama revolves around sled dogs drew me into feeling the need to watch it (after all, the dog we took home is a sled dog breed). So I downloaded it and over the past few days I finally sat down and watched it. I wound up googling Sakhalin Huskies and discovered that the story behind this drama (the one from the original 1983 movie) inspired the movie Eight Below (which I thought was a great movie when I watched it). Unfortunately I also kind of spoiled a little bit about what happens to myself.

Anyways, the story itself is touching and heartwarming. The first few episodes are them working on setting up the exhibition, finding the dogs, and setting out to Antarctica. Like the last reviewer stated, how many dramas (Asian ones at that) settle around the Arctic? But not only that, this story is based off of a true one. While I'm sure they through in scenes to make it more moving and to draw you in more (which they did excellently by the way) most of what you see is how it really took place.

The acting was top notch. This is my first drama with Kimura Takuya and he really stood out in his role. His love for the dogs and his actions as a leader. Of course the rest of the cast was great as well, and I think Yamamoto Yusuke acted his best in this role.
The dogs were who really really stood out though. Again, like the last reviewer stated, how they got the dogs to act so perfectly in their roles amazed me. It was natural and realistic, everything they did and how they acted. And it added 10x more to the story. You can't watch this drama and not expect to get attached to the dogs and their teamwork and spirit. I can only imagine how well trained these dogs are.

The music fitted the drama, but it's nothing I'd really listen to outside of it. The instrumentals were moving and the actual ending song went along well with it.

I'm not sure when I'll ever rewatch this, but I can definitely see myself watching it again someday. It's a really good drama. I just can't see it happening for awhile (my next step is watching the original movie and then rewatching Eight Below and comparing the stories).

Overall, I feel this drama is a bit underrated on MDL. It's a drama about faith and encouragement and working together as a team. It's a drama that shows that the life of a dog is just as valuable as a life of a human. It's a drama that really pulls you in and leaves you with a bittersweet feeling. You can't watch this drama and not feel a single drop of emotion.

Keep a box of tissues by you!

This drama has a hint of romance, but it's not what it's about or focused on so don't expect much in that department. Same with Comedy. Expect discovery and teamwork and drama.

TL;DR?
Watch it!! It's worth your time!

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