Utsukushii kare

I started watching this series after having read many positive reviews and thus had high expectations. At this point I should say that although I enjoy watching BL dramas, I am not a "fan", in the sense that I do not watch them for the thrill of seeing two cute guys kissing (although this is definitely a plus) but for the story, the development of the characters and the coherence of the plot. Unfortunately none of this seems to be the case here. A (partially) abusive high-schooler falls for the class's most bullied guy, who actually stalks him, but does not tell him and only treats him with superiority. No person in his right mind would fall for him, unless one suffering from some kind of Stockholm syndrome. The fact that he is the "most beautiful person" is psychologically not enough. So in a few words, the story sucks greatly. There is no evolution of the characters whatsoever, the main leads are either self-indulging or continuously self-pitying, and all six episodes spend a great amount of time in blurry reminiscence of past events (not serving the purpose of realization of present ones). The acting is mediocre (the crying is OK, but apart from this nothing more).

I was really disappointed, because I thought that today'sBL dramas had moved forward (in fact they have, there are many modern mature stories, the authors of which know how to write captivating stories with real content).

Just a final remark. If I consider this as a low-budget BL story intended for secretly admiring all-male romance, then it's OK.

Perhaps one more remark as after all. I realize that the dating culture in Asia is different, but having lived there and having been in a relationship with an Asian for quite a few years now, I can assure you, things are not so extreme there. At least not anymore (might have been decades ago), so this is also no excuse for poor plot.

STORY AND CHARACTERS. Here lies the strength of this series. Both male leads (and Kazuki) are not absolutely good or bad. We see both sides of each character. We see Kiyoi at first as a brat, user, bully, then later we realize he also feels like he's a victim. Hira, on the other hand, despite being seen as a willing victim, is also unwittingly using Kiyoi for personal, selfish reasons. Kayoma, who seems to be the most "normal" of the three, can also do the wrong things at the wrong time.

We understand where the two MLs are coming from with the help of animated scenes showing how they grew up. This is what is missing in MR. UNLUCKY CAN ONLY KISS. That series ended leaving us with no clue where the two ML's families are.

Pacing is just right: too slow, not too fast. Also there's no irritating side stories of side couples, so the focus is just on the main leads. Attention, Thai BL producers!

Also, this is the only BL I've seen so far in which the POV switched from one character (Hira) to another (Kiyoi). This switch made us see more where our main characters are coming from.

ACTING. Superb ang acting from the entire cast. Special mention is the final confrontation. Acting on that scene was spot on. Good writing, too.

TECHNICALS. Cinematography is above average, seasoned professionals obviously are behind this. Same with editing and music, above average.

REWATCH VALUE. I'd watch this over and over again, yes!

10 / 10.

As in many Japanese storytelling, this felt real, with many many layers and subtleties. In my experience Japan is never afraid to go outside the box with flawed characters and dark tropes, or tell a story others might not be brave enough to.

The acting is superb, and the character complexities are subtle. I can see why the boldness of narration in this story might trigger people to be mad and leave a lower rating, but sticking with this show to the end, looking behind a character's exterior to the emotions lying underneath each interaction, will bring all its light and beauty to the forefront. As I read recently, you'd rather a piece of art provoke 1* and 10*s than all 5*s.

As with reality, people are flawed. There are misunderstandings, nerves and social pressure getting in the way of honest communication, weird and creepy sides to us we rather others not see, insecurities and a lack of awareness of our own shortcomings. If you want an escape from reality with fluffy characters and story, this isn't it. Personally I find happy stories off-putting unless there's a journey to get there. These are people you might be able to relate to that we can empathize with. Lighting, scenery, and settings all play a part in feeling enclosed within their story and evoking our senses. The subtleties behind the conversations, but also the tones of voice, the expressions - they stick with you to the point where I think rewatching you would pick up on so much more.

There's probably more I could say, but I hope you give it a go. It deserves the spotlight. I'm a sucker for subtle art, one that doesn't feel pressured to scream to the masses, one where the characters are followed through properly. 10/10, go watch it 💛 Looking forward to the movie.

This is what I want from TV, when I push the play button!

The story, the acting, the cinematography, the music... everything is perfect from the 1st to the last moment.

A little jewel you don't want to miss.

At first I was annoyed because of the character's behaviour but as I continued watching I fell in love with their toxic but deep relationship it was really well written and acting was perfect it's been a year but I still can't forget this masterpiece.