A showcase of then national(?) pride, Japanese AV idol, Sasaki Nozomi - literally. This could be made into a music video and would still purvey the whole story. Eye candy in a better and wholesome package. In any case, I don't know what my standards (or of culture) are at right now but for the material, she can definitely act her part.
Forget character development unlike similar themed Asian dramas like "Crying Out Love in the Center of the World (Sekai no Chûshin de, Ai o Sakebu, 2004)", "A Moment to Remember (Nae Meorisokui Jiwoogae, 2004)", "My Girl and I (Parang-juuibo, 2005), "Closer to Heaven (Nae Sa-rang Nae Gyeol-ae)", "Forever and a Day (Filipino, 2011)", "All My Life" (Filipino, 2004)", etc. OR even "Untamed Heart (American, 1993); 'tis a whirlwind of accelerated emotions, situations and conflicts. Don't expect much conveyance of emotions either. I get more uneasy from watching uploaded commercials of a Thai insurance company.
Cinematography was beautifully shot regardless of location, with the perennial focus and zoom on Miss Sasaki's too perfect a profile not lacking. It was too much to not ponder on that I reluctantly asked my teen-aged daughter (whom I was watching this with, and yes there where uncomfortable parts!); "Can they Photoshop a whole movie?".
Plot was not as hard to miss, just that it was progressing too fast to be expected. If it was made into a mini-series then much would rather make sense (like Hotaru no Hikari, which is WAY out of context). Other characters or sub-plots are just as forgettable as they come and go. Culture shock would be not as hard as to come by judging from various taboos the story includes (excessive and disturbing school bullying, disturbing "part-time" jobs for minors, co-habitation situations, etc.).
All in all, its characters are beautiful, flaws are bearable and definitely watchable just don't expect it to conform to your norms and values (maybe unless you're from where this movie came from).
