Smoking

There's a lot wrong with this show, there's plenty of plot holes but the charm, characters and relationships they have more than make up for it.

If you seek an intelligent but humble television series that takes you into a fictional world you've probably never explored: and, becomes more satisfying, interesting, entertaining, complex, and compassionate with each episode-then give the Japanese television series "Smoking" a try and you'll likely become addicted.

The writers throw you into the deep end of the blood-filled Yakuza pool before you really know what's happening: and, initially the warm blood repulses, disorients, and demands your focus.

But, your tolerance for fake blood, and your patience, proves rewarding when some revealing character development (in the form of back-story) starts weaving into the current events, driving the briskly-paced 28 minute episodes.

Initially Smoking seems predictable: but, by the second hour, the main characters' individual (back) stories begin to balance the scale with some unpredictability, heart-felt emotions, and writing that eventually challenges the actors enough to demonstrate why they landed the lead rolls.

Like fine cigars, fine whiskey, and fine wine, time reveals complexity, nuance, pedigree, quality, craftsmanship and the rewards for your patience - much like the Japanese TV series Smoking.

I really liked the characters and their relationships. Storyline was pretty gritty and keep a good pace throughout the show. From what I've read there isn't going to be a 2nd season. Too bad bad definitely worth checking out as they wrap up everything nicely.

Superb show that kept me hooked the whole way through. Short snappy episodes that cut to the chase. Fingers crossed for a second season!

Smoking was a pleasant surprise in a Netflix queue that is quickly running out of original content. Each episode takes you on a deeper ride into a family of outcasts attempting to make a better life from the rubble of a former one and by the end you not only empathize with each protagonist introduced, but feel like you've taken an entire ride through the lives of four strangers.

If you're a fan of tense drama draped over with satisfying gore please check this out. If you enjoy a good crime thriller, check this out. If you enjoy gangster movies, check this out. If you have been known to indulge in international film to broaden your mind on other societies, check this out. If you have the ability to see this series, check this out.

All in all, watch this series, it is worth the attention.