Tonbi (2013)

I decided to watch this purely for Sato Takeru, I had little interest in the actually story but I was pleasantly surprised at how brilliant this series was!

For me the story was nothing special, a single parent raising his child with the help of his friends. It's not a plot that stands out to me but boy how wrong I was! The story was emotional, sweet and touching for beginning to end as we see the characters grow and learn through the course of their life. I loved the setting and the time period of the plot as it wasn't something I had expected - covering the childhood and adulthood of Akira. It gives the chance to bond with the character as you watch him grow into an adult and in turn grow to love them. For me, the story was executed flawlessly, there weren't any plot holes and any questions were answered. It's a slow paced and a slice of life kinda drama but there is never a dull moment.

As mentioned I watched this for Sato Takeru he was brilliant throughout the whole series. He played his role perfectly as such a complex character, who had experienced many downs in his life, in such a simplistic and innocent manner can be down to the actor. The child actors that played Akira were also brilliant as it can be difficult to carry the same character through various people, but these actors made it feel like they were all the same person.

But as the story develop my focus turned to Uchino Masaaki. He was wonderful playing the "dumb" dad he portrayed his character beautifully and realistically I've never seen any of his dramas but he was incredibly in this! He made me cry, laugh, cry, laugh, crying and laughing at the same time! His acting draws you into the story and despite my bias towards Takeru, Masaaki brought this story to life. A round of applaus to the supporting cast as well because without them the series would lose it's spark. The support from his friends are enviable when watching it you think "wow, I want friends like him." The whole casting had great chemistry and bonding there isn't much more I can compliment on cause it was simply brilliant.

The music is very simple and nothing memorable but does well in emphasising the emotions of the characters.

I will definitely be rewatching this series again because it's just beautifully made and well executed. For me it's a absolute gem! The story and acting ticked all the boxes for me parenthood, friendship, loss and growth through a genuine and realistic story. The bonding between friends, father and son was exceptionally beautiful. There was never a dull moment and before you know it you've already finished it and wanting more. The story was simple and geunine along with great characters and acting this is really a must watch! It makes you appreciate the things in life you take for granted.

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