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Happy of the End japanese drama review
Completed
Happy of the End
14 people found this review helpful
by Jojo
Sep 24, 2024
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 7.5

"Happy of the End" : Toxic Bonds and Healing Journeys!

The heart of 'Happy of the End' is the turbulent life of the characters with a raw and poignant exploration of love, trauma and healing. It captures both the passionate life and shadowy corners where pain and beauty coexist.

The series beautifully explores past trauma with their present struggles.
Chihiro is a man grappling with the aftermath of rejection both from his family because of his sexuality and haunted by the break up of his ex-boyfriend. His encounter with Keito, a charming yet very troubled figure marks the beginning of a relationship based on shared sufferings.
Chihiro is lonely and longing for home while Keito's backstory is a harrowing tale of abandonment and survival.
Somehow both of them became each other's refuge and mirror despite the chaos and trauma they were subjected to. Both the characters's journeys were heartbreaking but seeing them receive affection from each other was heartwarming.

The flashback scenes were powerful adding the layer as to why the characters are as they are. I liked the seamless transition plus the clear contrast between present and past. You can feel and know that both the lead characters need serious therapy but you still keep watching it for the rawness and athenticity.

Kaji was another character that I liked. Throughout he was such a good friend to first Kieto and then to Chihiro. The unconditional friendship and found family. <3

The series deals with serious themes like homophobia, child abuse, prostitution and animal abuse (Please read trigger warnings before starting this) faced by those living on the margins of society, it also speaks loudly about acceptance and capacity of love to heal even from the deepest wounds. This was dark and toxic but at the same time hopeful and happy. I know it doesn't make sense but at the end of it, it was actually 'happy of the end'.

However, it does feel rushed at times but that is due to the short run time. Maybe 2 more episodes would have justified the ending better and might have done better justice to this Art.

Overall, recommended if you're okay with dark themes, but please consider the trigger warnings. Again, be sure to read the TW before starting. It’s not all shining stars, but you can see the light throughout!
8.8/10
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