Misogynistic trite

I understand that one has to put up with cultural differences in everything one watches, but it is 2021, and Viki and the like are still purchasing licenses for series that put down women from the start to the end. The message is of accepting and normalising that a woman can and should be happy with being called idiot absolutely non-stop. That bullying behaviour is shown as acceptable and desirable. Young women would watch this and think that this is ok. Men would watch this and be reinforced in these kinds of behaviours and beliefs. This is how it becomes normalised for women to be bullied and harassed at work, and to be subjected to pay inequalities. This is how women’s confidence and self-esteem are destroyed on a daily basis. This is how women become victims of violence.
As I said, it is 2021. It doesn’t matter if this is still accepted in Japan, but as Viki and others broadcast this kind of content, Viki and others are responsible for disseminating misogynistic beliefs and behaviour worldwide. As a company, Viki and others should urgently reconsider their ethical and moral code, and stop supporting and contributing to normalising the abuse of women in any way, shape or form.

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Quite tiring

The cute became tiring very quickly. And from cha cha cha light fun it went full on angst on the last 4 episodes, without much preparation along the story.

The FL’s character developed from someone that made assumptions and judgements at the drop of a hat, to someone that struggled a bit when young, to a full on bunny boiler teen in love that demanded the ML’s full attention and life history disclosure on day 3 of the relationship.

The ML had a bit more of depth, albeit the whole of it pretty much on the last three or four episodes.

The stereotypical villagers were all there, and oh god how tiring the whole concept is - zero boundaries, gossiping, etc.

SPOILERS ———
Something nice was the refusal of the ML and the second lead to engage in the normal competition / rivalry trope.
The most beautiful part was the resolution of tooth issue suffered by the lesbian character, an allegory of healing the hidden pain she endured as she came out.

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That’s what we need!

What a gem! Super well made, great cinematography, witty, full of subtle emotions and bold colours. All characters are brilliant, great acting all around. Most importantly, there was minimal use of tropes - thanks goodness! The storyline was delivered neatly, with no need for sausage filling.
This drama is super smart, and I will be looking out for more such good work coming from the writers and directors.
This is the kind of drama we need, enough of tired (and tiring) formulae. Let us use our brains, let us laugh out loud. Let the characters have personality.

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