Completed in 2020

Hopefully, I will get through this list before the end of the year. 

Top 5 - Ranked

The rest in order of rating/release date

Rated: Completed

Non-rate: Watching or on-hold

Drama - Movies 

ichihachi aug 25, 2020
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  • Imawa no Kuni no Arisu Season 1

    1. Imawa no Kuni no Arisu Season 1

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    10

    Human survival instincts challenge our rational thinking which was demonstrated in this 8 episode series very clearly in different shapes and forms. 

    Main and side character backstories shown

    Character development for main & some supporting

    Heartfelt & Heartbreaking moments executed very well - Acting and writing

    Music/Soundtrack - Fitting 

    10/10 - minimal flaws (some lack of action and story predictability)

  • 30Sai made Doteida to Mahotsukai ni Narerurashi

    2. 30Sai made Doteida to Mahotsukai ni Narerurashi

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 12 episodes

    10

    Based on the manga that was released on September 7, 2018

    Comedic elements and fantasy-based writing 

    Features promising cast members

    Trailer

    Note: Added Eng subs linked to the ICHIHACHI BLOG

  • Ojisan wa Kawai Mono ga o Suki

    3. Ojisan wa Kawai Mono ga o Suki

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 5 episodes

    9.5

    The topic of self-acceptance, friendship and not giving up on your dreams are some of the messages conveyed throughout the short series. The plot may be simple; however, the positive and wholesome energy the show brings after each episode gave me a refreshing feeling.

    Pros: Strong friendship portrayals and simple storyline 

    Cons: Short duration and limited character arc

  • Way of the House Husband

    4. Way of the House Husband

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 10 episodes

    9.0

    The series is very manga, including the character's mannerisms which resemble Gintama style humour. 

    In short, it's an enjoyable watch and good for taking breaks from heavy genres. 

  • #Alone

    5. #Alone

    Korean Movie - 2020

    8.0

    The film tackles from a more minimal approach to a zombie apocalypse setting. 

    Actor for the Main lead captures the raw emotions of Isolation and survival beautifully. 

    Pros: Production quality, Decent camera-movements and framework, ML actor's excellent performance on the theme of isolation

    Cons: Limited character arc and dull storyline pacing

  • Sekai Wa 3 de Dekite iru

    6. Sekai Wa 3 de Dekite iru

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 1 episode

    8.0

    Long ramen Commerical 

    Despite the shows short duration it manages to cover the obstacles business workers, farmers and regular individuals face during the COVID pandemic situation. 

    Another kudos to Hayashi sans acting and having the ability to switch the tone of the drama. 

  • O Kane no Kireme ga Koi no Hajimari

    7. O Kane no Kireme ga Koi no Hajimari

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    8.0

    Finished the show, The showrunners did a good job finding an alternate direction to wrap the story. I appreciated the refreshing storyline as it explores the importance of using money wisely and to have gratitude for the little aspects around us.

    The performance of both Matsuoka and Miura san was excellent! 

    Both of their characters balanced each other and character development had been shown in the short duration of the series. 


    Pros: Refreshing storyline and dynamic chemistry between the main leads 

    Cons: Short duration with an unfinished conclusion (kudos to showrunners for adding alternative ending)

  • Sensei wo kesu hōteishiki.

    8. Sensei wo kesu hōteishiki.

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    7.0

    Tanaka Kei taking on a character with a more bold personality 

    Yamada Yuki portraying a similar role to that of his character in 'Homeroom'. 

    Note: Added Eng subs linked to the ICHIHACHI BLOG

  • Life Senjou No Bokura

    9. Life Senjou No Bokura

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    8.0

    At first, I was not planning to watch the series due to having an impression it would turn out to be another typical bl show. However, I was proven wrong once I had watched the trailer and episodes. The chemistry between the two leads was terrific, and the delivered acting of their characters were spot on. I do applaud Raiku considering this was his first lead role.  

    The story stuck close to the original source material which the directors and producers did a great job framing it into a live-action setting. It balances the good and bad moments of growing up from adolescence to adulthood. 

    It may be seen as bl from the surface however, this show portrays the relationship in a realistic light (e.g. societal pressure and embracing yourself)  Therefore, I rate this show on my high rating list. 

    The show is getting a film based on the director's cut: http://vap.co.jp/life/#theater


    The soundtrack is also a good bop ヽ|・ω・|ゞ

  • Tsuge / Minato

    10. Tsuge / Minato

    Japanese Special - 2020, 1 episode

    8.0
  • Valentine & Hexagon

    11. Valentine & Hexagon

    Japanese Special - 2020, 1 episode

    8.0
  • Sixteen Shoukougun

    12. Sixteen Shoukougun

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    7.5

    Interesting characters, each with internal struggles which could relate to many teens.

    The production quality and ost are the best.

    Acting-wise pretty up to standard and suitable for story pattern

    Character development could be found mostly from the two main characters however not so much for the side characters, unfortunately.

    The show does explore and portray sexuality and does feature an LGBT character; however, a relationship is not formed; it showcases more of the struggle aspect.

    If you are expecting Girl's love, I would consider passing this show, however, if you are keen to watch for psychological and exploration of teen life I would recommend.

  • Before Your Eyes Stop

    13. Before Your Eyes Stop

    Korean Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    7.5

    Cliche storyline

    A decent performance from both main leads 

    Satisfying ending kudos! 

  • Thirteen

    14. Thirteen

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    7.5

    Story concept had an interesting premise but the structure of the show and tone of characters made me uninterested after the first episode. I may pick this drama series again due to its short duration however, it's not highly likely. 

  • Because of You

    15. Because of You

    Taiwanese Drama - 2020, 10 episodes

    7.5

    Available on Viki

    The story is nothing special but the main pair's acting was on point 

    Side characters came across undeveloped (a problem found in many multi couple storylines e.g. love by chance)

    Season 2 is on the way so hopefully, there is more character exploration and screen-time for side characters

  • Seiren no Zange

    16. Seiren no Zange

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    7.0

    Very short and dark 

    Excellent acting and ending conclusion was executed nicely. 

  • Pipuru - AI to Kekkon Seikatsu ga Hajimemashita

    17. Pipuru - AI to Kekkon Seikatsu ga Hajimemashita

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    7.0

    This show was slow at first but they did a great job fleshing out the main and side characters. I would say the ending is a hopeful one. However, I am unsure about the decision for one particular side characters ending as it may affect another side character's will to choose.

  • Be Love

    18. Be Love

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    7.0

    The ending didn't make sense.

    It's either the show ended based on the storybook, or they made a last min crossover of reality and fantasy. 

  • Homeroom

    19. Homeroom

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 10 episodes

    6.5

    'Don't judge a book by its cover' - literal definition of this series

  • Nibiiro no Hako no Naka de

    20. Nibiiro no Hako no Naka de

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 6 episodes

    6.5

    The story was watchable for a casual binge

    The level of enjoyment I had with the series was just about average 

    We follow a story of a group of adolescence figuring out their future vision and overwhelming emotions towards an unrequited love. 

    The story covers topics of family abuse, teen miscarriage, sexuality and overcoming past memories. 

     

  • Our 30 Minute Sessions

    21. Our 30 Minute Sessions

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    9.0

    Excellent performance from both leads and decent music. I might actually save some on my playlist. The supernatural and slice of life theme blend smoothly. 

    Loved the colour palette and editing! ^_^

    Be prepared to see a lot of cassette tapes

  • His  - What Is Love

    22. His - What Is Love

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    8.5

    One of the most anticipated films of the year based on promotions and trailer

    Realistically grounded without seeming too depressing or tragic

    The film has a similar tone to Close-knit and Restart After Come Back Home/Restart wa tadaima no ato de (based on the trailer)

    The acting is not overacted and flows well with the story

  • Mask Ward

    23. Mask Ward

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    8.0

    Small cast - Nagano san is fantastic here. I appreciate seeing her take up roles outside of the rom-com genre. 

    Interesting premises (didn't see the plot-twist coming)

  • Signal 100

    24. Signal 100

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    7.5

    The film tried to be lessons of the evil and Battle royale however had a weak execution in character arc and felt rushed. 

  • Stolen Identity 2

    25. Stolen Identity 2

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    6.5

    Similar to the first film, it was slow from start to midpoint. The climax scenes were meh, but the plot-twist and character backstory had revived a bit of my attention. 

    There were a lot of predictable moments, including who was involved in the crimes. The suspenseful elements had a weaker impact compared to the first film, which came to my decision of adding a lower rating.

  • Sei no Gekiyaku

    26. Sei no Gekiyaku

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    I was pretty surprised this film got picked up by Netflix. After finishing the film I have no idea how to rate it therefore, it's left blank.

    First time I heard about this film was on youtube through an FMV (fan-made video/edit channel), the highlights of the story interested me and seeing the film I was not prepared for the graphic mature themes.

    Looking past the mature themes the story between the main leads have a hidden meaning of giving each other purpose to feel alive and live (From my interpretation of the film's message). 

    If you could tolerate mature content and manage to see beyond the surface it may be for you (not a film for everyone)

  • Alice

    27. Alice

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    Dropped at EP5  - The potential in storyline had me motivated to watch until episode 5. Dropped due to plotholes in time travel concept & heavy implications of romance subtexts between the Son and Mother.

  • 24 Japan

    28. 24 Japan

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 24 episodes

    Dropped after EP2 - The story had a good start but lost my interest in mid duration of EP2

  • The School Nurse Files

    29. The School Nurse Files

    Korean Drama - 2020, 6 episodes

    Dropped after EP2

    The story had an interesting concept, but the editing and framework pacing lost my interest. 

    On Netflix 

  • 400,000 km Kanata no Koi

    30. 400,000 km Kanata no Koi

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    Dropped after EP1

    Wasn't a fan of the main protagonist's attitude, and despite there being a given obstacle, it made it hard for me to root for the character.

  • Followers

    31. Followers

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 9 episodes

    Finished the first episode - Production & acting is decent however, the story seemed slow for me. 

    Dropped at EP1

  • Youkai Share House

    32. Youkai Share House

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    Completed first episode - Great start to the FL character development

    Some of the writing seemed silly that took me out of the show (guess it's not my taste of drama)

    Dropped after EP1

  • Kare ga Boku ni Koishita Ryuu

    33. Kare ga Boku ni Koishita Ryuu

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes

    The show falls more on the bl aspect that has a wildly exaggerated storytelling and character expression. 

    I did consider giving the show a chance due to the attractive promotion and plot summary. However, I decided to drop it after episode one due to production quality, character portrayal along with low acting quality.  

    It's unfortunate because I was looking forward to Yamamoto sans comeback. 

    Dropped after EP1

  • Noodlanding op jou

    34. Noodlanding op jou

    Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes

    On-hold

    Loved the FL & ML as they both have a bold personality and have good chemistry together.

    The story started to drag from the fifth episode however, I am enjoying it so far. 

    Production quality and costume design *chefs kiss*

  • TWO WEEKS

    35. TWO WEEKS

    Japanese Drama - 2019, 10 episodes

    8.0

    The story seemed to drag out at times

    Brilliant acting from Miura san and the ending song is a bop! 

  • Kill It

    36. Kill It

    Korean Drama - 2019, 12 episodes

    On-hold

    Ep2

  • BACK STREET GIRLS - Gokudoruzu

    37. BACK STREET GIRLS - Gokudoruzu

    Japanese Drama - 2019, 6 episodes

    7.5

    The acting was spot on, and I enjoyed watching it despite the exaggerated comedic aspect. I appreciate the story having a serious tone and character engagement.

  • Afraid Of

    38. Afraid Of

    Korean Drama - 2019, 3 episodes

    6.5

    A great message of embracing yourself and building self-love

    I really loved the use of camera shots and calming ost throughout this series however, I found the story sometimes a bit hard to follow.

    All episodes with subs here

  • Nee Sensei, Shiranai No?

    39. Nee Sensei, Shiranai No?

    Japanese Drama - 2019, 6 episodes

    Dropped after EP2 - Appreciated the fluffy atmosphere but it wasn't my taste of drama, it felt too fictional for me to continue watching. Very minimal character traits and growth. 

  • Kingdom

    40. Kingdom

    Japanese Movie - 2019

    9.5

    One of the best cinematic experienced film from a Japanese film

    A simple storyline that's easy to follow with action-packed scenes

    The acting was decent however not spectacular level

  • 12 Suicidal Children

    41. 12 Suicidal Children

    Japanese Movie - 2019

    8.0

    Marketing strategy/promotions don't align with the actual storyline format 

    A few cast members acting stood out more than others (Sugisaki Hana, Takeuchi Aisa and Mackenyu)

    The ending gives us an open end, a hint of continuity. If the producers decide to make a sequel, they could try getting better marketing for the film and a much large-scaled storyline.

    The film was okay; it did not completely bore me. However, I was expecting more focus towards the suspense and action elements rather than having characters standing around and discussing for half of the film.

    Despite the many characters having surface-level backstories, it was enough to grasp the understanding of each character and still made me interested and engaged with them.

    8/10 <(")

  • Murder at Shijinsou

    42. Murder at Shijinsou

    Japanese Movie - 2019

    6.5

    The film had a good start with a great production setting and cast members but the story didn't keep my attention for long. The story struggled to focus on a zombie survival or a full detective direction. 

  • Hitsuji to Okami no Koi to Satsujin

    43. Hitsuji to Okami no Koi to Satsujin

    Japanese Movie - 2019

    8.0
  • Ossan’s Love: LOVE or DEAD

    44. Ossan’s Love: LOVE or DEAD

    Japanese Movie - 2019

    7.5

    The last 30 minutes were better than the first half. 

    The first half dragged out the rivalry and the yearning Chief towards Haruta. Not much was added to the film except for new characters. The 2018 drama series did a better job involving the side characters better than the film. Here the characters don't play much of a role. 

    The relationship between Haruta and Maki was very minimal; however, the conflict and build start to pick up pace in the last 30 minutes. Personally, I had expected more; therefore, the rating is ranked lower. 

  • Miss Sherlock

    45. Miss Sherlock

    Japanese Drama - 2018, 8 episodes

    7.5
  • Hibiki

    46. Hibiki

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    9.0
  • Gintama 2: Rules Are Meant To Be Broken

    47. Gintama 2: Rules Are Meant To Be Broken

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    8.5

    Better than the first film 

  • Impossibility Defense

    48. Impossibility Defense

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    8.5
  • Inuyashiki

    49. Inuyashiki

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    7.5
  • 3D Kanojo: Real Girl

    50. 3D Kanojo: Real Girl

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    7.5

    Better than most rom-com anime live actions. 

    The ending obstacle and sudden marriage didn't make sense to me; however, the main protagonist's character development made up for it. 

  • Stolen Identity

    51. Stolen Identity

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    7.0
  • Laplace's Witch

    52. Laplace's Witch

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    6.5
  • Long Time No See

    53. Long Time No See

    Korean Drama - 2017, 5 episodes

    8.5
  • Re:Mind

    54. Re:Mind

    Japanese Drama - 2017, 12 episodes

    7.0

    During some parts of the drama, it gave me pretty little liars vibes. The story has many mysteries that will leave you confused and wanting more answers. 

    The acting is not the best due to little experience from the cast members. I was hoping to see Hirate Yurina (a member of Keyakizaka46 at the time) because I know she has more acting experience. 

    In the drama, the performance and characters that stood out to me were Sasaki Mirei with her calm and intellectual manner. Also, Saito Kyoko, although at first, I was not a fan of her character; however, I believe her performance had a strong impact which could resonate with audiences.

  • Blade of the Immortal

    55. Blade of the Immortal

    Japanese Movie - 2017

    7.0

    Great action, very minimal character exploration. 

  • Friends Games: The Movie

    56. Friends Games: The Movie

    Japanese Movie - 2017

    7.0

    Not much action, however, the concept was at least interesting. 

  • Zenin, Kataomoi

    57. Zenin, Kataomoi

    Japanese Movie - 2016

    8.0

    Some stories were more developed than others. I enjoyed the performance of all actors & actresses, they all gave it their best with the given material. Although I appreciate realistic themes I do wish some of the stories had a conclusion.

  • Lychee Light Club

    58. Lychee Light Club

    Japanese Movie - 2016

    7.5

    If Disney took a dark approach to Peter-pan's story > this film

  • Strayer's Chronicle

    59. Strayer's Chronicle

    Japanese Movie - 2015

    6.5

    X-MEN Japan > minus the structured storyline and visual quality 

  • Gomenne Seishun!

    60. Gomenne Seishun!

    Japanese Drama - 2014, 10 episodes

    8.5

    Picked it up after dropping it at ep 1

    I actually dropped this drama after the first episode but picked it up a few days later. Now that I have completed the series, I loved the life lessons and each character grew closer and formed a stronger connection.

    I thought I wouldn't like the characters, however, the acting from both main leads (good chemistry and both are charming *chef's kiss*) including the performance from the students made the dramatic/serious and lively moments more enjoyable.

  • Monsterz

    61. Monsterz

    Japanese Movie - 2014

    7.0

    Intriguing yet tragic storytelling of good vs evil. 

  • Platinum Data

    62. Platinum Data

    Japanese Movie - 2013

    7.5

    Interesting concept, however, the ending felt dull. 

  • Rurouni Kenshin

    63. Rurouni Kenshin

    Japanese Movie - 2012

    7.5

    The fight choreography and soundtrack was spot on!

    Character arc and development except for Ruroni seemed very surface level, which made it hard for me to feel engaged with them. 

  • Blue

    64. Blue

    Japanese Movie - 2003

    6.5

    After watching this film and skimming through the manga, I felt the director wanted to give the film a similar minimalistic atmosphere to the original material. However, due to the film duration, it fell flat to deliver an entertaining narrative.  The long takes of scenes had its charm, but with too many and lack of music to help communicate characters, it could be interpreted as boring for some audiences. 

    I felt intrigued by reading into the expression and body language of the two main characters and the given situation they were in links close to a realistic setting which I appreciated. 

    The film had a similar vibe to My own private Idaho and a toned-down story pattern of Asagao to Kase-san. 

  • Battle Royale

    65. Battle Royale

    Japanese Movie - 2000

    7.5

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