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Some movies and some books have an essence that is difficult to put into words because the emotions they allow you to feel are well beyond speech. This story may start by being about resentment, unspoken hurt and pain, but eventually it also becomes about great love, affection and devotion. Most of it had been happening behind the scenes or in the shadows, which is why misunderstandings had happened and unnecessary sadness grew and bitterness festered. The poetic quality of this story is nothing short of amazing. At one point I couldn't help but shed a few tears for Kosaku, whose life seemed to be somehow commanded by his pain for being abandoned as a child, but never quite believing in the love his mother held for him. In a way this movie is a story of redemption for several characters.

The story is interesting and the plot pulls you in even though it's not exactly surprising in terms of who did what, to whom and why. This is, in the end, a pretty standard "whodunnit". Found the actors' portrayal of the characters quite good and ended up researching more of their work precisely because of it. I was a bit annoyed by how incompetent the main character came across at times but thought I'd give her the benefit of the doubt since she was going through emotional trauma and pain. That being said, her boss was way more patient than most would have been. The younger police officer was funny and charming so I enjoyed their adding her to the story for a bit of an edge.

Like some others have remarked, the concept of this show isn't novel. But the acting, the ambiance and the cinematography are impeccable. The raw emotion led me to binge on the first three episodes and wait eagerly for the fourth. I'm definitely making this a weekly staple until it's over.