There's a growing disappointment that Japanese dramas have been declining in quality recently. Japanese TV stations commission dramas from external production companies four times a year, once each quarter. However, due to this long-standing tradition, they're now churning out predictable works that lack originality. The themes, stories, roles, and actors all seem to follow a formulaic pattern, resulting in Japanese TV series that are consumed and discarded without much impact.
In contrast, this Netflix original series is a rare gem with a solid story (based on an already highly acclaimed novel) as its foundation. The performances and unique characteristics of each role are well-portrayed, making it thoroughly engaging. Unlike the typical 10-episode structure of Japanese drama series, this one is compressed into 7 episodes, allowing for a streamlined and fast-paced narrative without unnecessary filler. This is definitely a strong point.
I'd like to praise how well the story, roles, and subject matter come together to create an excellent final product. The portrayal of the aging police detective, just six months away from retirement, is particularly noteworthy. It presents a realistic and convincing image of a seasoned investigator without falling into exaggeration. It's surprising to find charm in a gaunt, tired-looking old man, which makes this performance all the more impressive.
