Oh the love/hate feels I have for this drama are too much! On the one hand the build up to the ending was awesome. On the other hand, the actual ending left me disappointed.
Story: Don't let the summary fool you, like it did me. The drama goes in depth about the lives of the main characters' lives before the major crime happened and how they are all related to each other. Usually its a hit or miss when a drama or movie decides to go from flashbacks and flash forwards in order to solve a mystery, but this totally hit the mark for me. There is slowburn goodness that will make you want to pull your hair out at times, but it never felt like it dragged. And the whole "N" thing was clever and was laced throughout the drama in subtle and cute ways right to the end.
Acting/Cast:This could've been in the melodrama genre there were so many tears and conversations about emotions. Oddly enough, the actors did a fantastic job portraying their characters in a sincere way that I felt for them more than I thought I would and it didn't feel as heavy as it could have. Not for one moment did I consider someone else for any of the roles: everyone from the hard to read and distant Sugishita Nozomi to the doting old landlord. EVERY character was broken in some way, and even though it was only 10 episodes we get to see how deep those scars run for each one. Each individual story was really moving and pitiable. How they were all weaved together was masterful.
Music: Haunting and full of anticipation. Not necessarily an OST I'd download and listen to for fun, but effective.
Rewatch Value: Not really. The core of the story is a mystery, so once you know the how and why everything happened, most of the thrill is gone. (especially considering the ending -_-)
Overall: This is an ultimate slow-burn in romance and mystery. It did take me a few episodes to really get into it, but once I did I couldn't wait to see how everything unfolded. My biggest pet peeve is how the romantic plot ended. I mean REALLY?! Everything else was wrapped up with a nice bow except the 1 plot line I was desperate to end somewhat happily.Still, this is a great watch. Definite recommendation for a stormy weekend.
Was this review helpful to you?