I was so surprised to see something jump to the top of BL rated dramas on MDL after what has felt like a year (2023) of less than great BL productions, but after watching it I believe it deserves the accolades. I’ve always gravitated to the BL dramas that prioritize a sense of realism and emotional heft, over the shenanigans and illogical misunderstandings that many BLs try to pass off as legitimate plot points. Kimi to Nara Koi wo Shite Mite mo stands head to toe with many of my favorite BLs, like Eien no Kinou, Fujoshi, Ukkari Gei ni Kokuru, Gameboys, I Told Sunset About You, Like in the Movies, More Than Words, Otto No Otto, Bokura no Shokutaku, The Eighth Sense, Mood Indigo, Kinou Nani Tabeta?, and Blueming. So if you like any of those, you will likely also enjoy this. The plot of Kimi to Nara Koi wo Shite Mite mo seems very simple, but hidden inside is a very relatable story, engaging characters, plot tension that emanates from believable human emotions. This show made me tear up (happy tears) many times. It’s incredibly refreshing to see characters be so honest with themselves about what they want. The drama hinges on actual human desires, without any “gotchas” like the forced under-explained misinterpretations and missed connections that many BL dramas unfortunately rely on as plot devices. this show was incredibly well written, and well acted. My only criticism of the may be that it might be slightly unbelievable that these two high school students would be able to communicate with such maturity. A bonus of this show is the amazing theme song, and closing credits song, which both perfectly convey the emotions of this series. I’ve watched over 150 BL dramas and this was one of the best!