Completed in 2020

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)

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

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

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. 

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

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. 

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)

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

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

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.

Cliche storyline

A decent performance from both main leads 

Satisfying ending kudos! 

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. 

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

Very short and dark 

Excellent acting and ending conclusion was executed nicely. 

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.

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. 

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

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. 

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

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

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)

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

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.

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). 

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.

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

Dropped after EP2

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

On Netflix 

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.

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

Dropped at EP1

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

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

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*

The story seemed to drag out at times

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

On-hold

Ep2

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.

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

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. 

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

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 <(")

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. 

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. 

Better than the first film 

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. 

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.

Great action, very minimal character exploration. 

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

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.

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

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

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.

Intriguing yet tragic storytelling of good vs evil. 

Interesting concept, however, the ending felt dull. 

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. 

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.