Shima Shima (2011)

I started watching the drama, because the story looked interesting. And this is a cute, predictable, and light drama. So, if you are looking for some mindless fun, it's a good choice. But if you are looking for something which makes you think, then you should not watch this.

The drama tries to address subjects about the woes of women who are 30, and over, seriously, but they do it so lightly while trying to act serious that sometimes I found myself scoffing at the way they "analyzed" the situation. There isn't much character growth, if any. All relationship developments were rushed, I would have missed it if I blinked.

The acting was similar to most other Japanese dramas I've watched, not bad, but forgettable. And the music although it felt right for the moment, it's really nothing special.

Also, it's anime-ish at times. So, if you don't like those random characters that seem to come out of nowhere, random moments, and the exaggerated acting, this may not be for you.

I'm giving it a 6 because I did enjoy it, even if I don't considerate to be among the best dramas of any year.

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Overall [7] - This drama was very cute, especially since Miura Shohei was adorable in it. The story is light but at the same time covers more "grown-up" issues than those of high school dramas. The short episodes didn't allow this series to live up to its full potential though, unfortunately.

Story [7] - The premise of this series really could have driven it further than it did. I enjoyed the story and was really looking forward to more, but the series is so short it simply didn't have time to deliver. The relationships were rushed because of this, but I enjoyed watching them none the less.

Acting/Cast [9] - I thought the cast in this series was great. The boys did a good job of playing their parts well while looking cute doing it! Miura Shohei was the reason I found the series and I'm glad I did find it. I only wish it went longer so each characters story could have been gone over in more depth.

Music [7] - I can't say anything stood out, but I can't say any music ruined scenes either.

Rewatch Value [6] - Again, mostly due to length, the rushed feel of this story probably won't lead me to watch it again, unless solely for Miura. While I would recommend the series, I don't see it being watched over and over.

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