I Turn (2019)

I still have no idea what this show is completely all about. Yakuza.. Ad agency. Family man..? This show definitely has more depth, more personality, and more entertainment than just what the synopsis gives!

A couple of the actors I can honestly say I didn't recognize for a full episode! They blended into their roles so seamlessly it was almost scary how they seemed to have forgotten who they are and their true self just to become a role for a 12 episode show.

This show is a pretty evenly balance show of perfection within the story/script and the cast. A lot of shows with similar storylines or similar all-star cast line-ups (like this show) seem to prioritize one or the other, however, this show seems to have managed the role of story and cast "stardom" levels very well. I mean: the story doesn't take over and drown out an actor/actress's true potential or talents, and the actors/actresses do not overpower the story so all you see is them and you forget the story exists. Does that make sense? Maybe this whole review doesn't make sense, though I hope it does!

It does start off a little slow, but as you continue watching each episode continues to suck you in and you don't realize you're at the last episode until it's all over! If you like yakuza stories (action, fighting, gangs, police, etc..) then this may not be for you; but if you like nonsensical, true to life camaraderie with friends, co-workers, and family, as well as, drama, unusual humor, and a little ridiculousness then this show may be for you! I have to say this story is unlike anything I have ever seen or read, and each actor and actress has definitely fit into their role perfectly; if you are a fan of any person in this cast line up then you should absolutely watch!

I hope this review made sense. Though it all seemed to prioritize and overly praise some actors/actresses and the story, without really giving much away, this show really is a fantastic watch!

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I Turn is not a fancy and flashy drama as it is aired for the midnight time slot. If you have watched any other dramas in the same time slot you should know what I mean by that. It's also has minimum number of eye candies and what would make certain viewers stay away from it is the fact that the story is revolved around a mid-age "salaryman".

But, don't jump into conclusion just yet. While the story is a bit cliche for a yakuza theme, the directing is the highlight of this drama. Overall, it felt more of a movie than a drama. The acting was also excellent especially from Muro Tsuyoshi, Furuta Arata, Kuroki Hitomi and Tanaka Kei. Other support casts also did a good job for their roles.

What I like about I Turn is, it has that (stupid) comedy moments and at the same time it also has serious moments. You will easily get hooked by the serious part even though if you're not in love with the comedy style of this drama. Each episode is intriguing enough and you will get curious to know on what would happen to the main character.

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