Dokushin Kizoku (2013)

They don't make 'em like this anymore.

Dokushin Kizoku hearkens back to the days when Hollywood produced sparkling romances, and immortal beauties such as Audrey Hepburn led us through them. Though it might not evolve into a classic in its own right, this is a drama which channels cinema's golden era with gusto. Western viewers, as well as those who exalt in old films, will enjoy and understand its purpose best. But doubtlessly, those "old souls," among us will find something to love as well.

"Familiar" describes Dokushin Kizoku wonderfully, though without the negative connotations that word sometimes bears. So frequently one hears the hardened drama veteran lamenting a fine watch stooping to the "same-old, same-old." However, the devices used in the plot here are not cliches often seen in Asian film and dramas; they are rather western conventions, so far fallen out of use as to be refreshing. What results is a delightfully nostalgic romantic comedy with the flavors of East and West delightfully blended. And if you've heard this feels somewhat like King of Dramas, that would be true enough; just don't expect a remake or more than superficial similarities.

My most serious issue is that the romantic conflict became a pain around the ninth episode. Much as I loved the ultimate pairing, it eventually felt set in stone so the continual flutter around the subject was frustrating.

Another point of interest will be the awesome use of romance/marriage quotes used to preface each episode.

Kusanagi Tsuyoshi always struck me as one of the better actors to come out of SMAP; my observation stands. As the commitment-phobic director Hoshino Mamoru, he rises above the realms of two-dimensionality. By the end of the series, we have a clear portrait of a man with unique interests and solitary pleasures, a person who believes he's happy alone but doesn't realize he just hasn't met the right person yet. Ito Hideaki plays second lead and brother to Kusanagi-san, as Susumu. This character was well-realized too and felt like a real person, despite his over-the-top playboy reputation. Wrapping up the leads, we had the lovely Kitagawa Keiko; her Haruno Yuki might be one of my favorite leads from a romantic comedy in ages. She felt strong despite her romantic confusions. Her unique adoration of film and the script writing process really bolstered her likability.

The supporting cast was somewhat forgettable, though one or two portrayals were poor. This includes the awful Hoshino aunt, whose lines felt as though they were being delivered from a cue card. Sasai Eisuke, however, has a hilarious though brief turn as Susumu's divorce lawyer. Did I laugh out loud any time he appeared? You bet.

Much of what helps boost a film into iconic status is its soundtrack. Dokushin Kizoku adopts various themes from famous romance films, mostly shirking original tracks of its own. This added to the classic, beautifully dated atmosphere the drama exuded throughout its pace. Vocals from Breakfast at Tiffany's (Moon River) and Sleepless in Seattle (If I Fall In Love) are most memorable among these. Some viewers may not enjoy this, however; while following the drama, I did notice people expressing displeasure at the inclusions. And for SMAP fans, yes: they provided the theme song as always (Shareotsu).

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I rarely watch, much less recommend romance dramas, but this is an exception. I think this can be enjoyed by everyone regardless what genre of drama a person prefers. It has an "old school" feel to it of something that was made in the 1960s. The story has a vintage, pure appeal to it even as it capitalizes on the cynicism of romance that is prevalent in today's society. side note: I liked Reiko the most.

I know pretty much nothing about Japanese actors. I fell in love with Kitagawa Keiko. Not only is she gorgeous, but her acting is great. Yuki is just as Mamoru describes in the last episode. Kusanagi Tsuyoshi was excellent as Mamoru. I was Mamoru before I met the person I have been with for the last 12 years. I thought I was destined to never be in a long term committed relationship and I was totally okay with it. I really identified with the character and I think that is a tribute to the acting. The other actors were good also.

The music is also great!!! Moon River is one of my favorite songs.

I will probably rewatch this at some point.

I recommend this to everyone.

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This is my first review, so please do excuse any errors or over-enthusiasm on my part.
This is a wonderful drama which may fly under the radar for many. Like curling up with a good book, snuggled under a blanket on cold days, or like strolling in autumn under blue skies and amongst golden fallen leaves. It has been a long time since I have seen such a romantic drama which deals more with people and less with contrived situations.
The eyes, the silences, the glances, the music, the sunsets, indeed a wonderful story overall. Everything comes together so well like whipped cream on hot chocolate. Even the side characters had a presence and added well to the story. While some viewers may feel the story to be a same-old scenario yet it is the presentation and the actors give it a flavor of its own. This is not for those looking for a "fast-food" but something to be leisurely savored. The feeling stays with you long after it's over. A definite re-watch.

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This well paced Jdrama is for anyone who loved/loves classic love stories, old movies, and memorable soundtracks. The storyline is not new, nor is the acting exceptional BUT what kept me coming back was the music and the pacing of this love story. DK has the essence of Sabrina, Sleep-Seattle, Affair to remember neatly retold in a modernized Japanese style & culture. If you watched King of Drama, Sabrina or just want a smooth drama like a decent Merlot (with a side of dark chocolate candy)give this a try. I'm sure you'll have a finish with a smile knowing the final coupling is pleasantly predictable just like your wine and dark chocolate sampler.

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Start out very interesting for this type of drama until episode 8, somehow i feel like they rush thing out and make the drama lose it charm from episode 9 until the end, however, this drama also has some new elements that you never seen in other romantic comedy drama, so it wasn't that bad, i was expected it could be worse but i enjoyed the acting and music of this show.

I feel like the climax of this drama was little bit rush and lose my concentration, and gave me blank feeling about both lead character no more, i know they would have this kind of ending by watching it from beginning but they added some good distraction that keep audiences' attention to continue with the show, the acting is brilliant from every role i seen in this drama, however, they could have done better with building attention and better script and not rushing to the result that everyone already know about it. Sometime, the story could keep audiences' attention even though they know what will coming at the end but the feeling while you were watching kept you going with the show.

This show has a potential at the beginning, and then suddenly rush thing out at the end and end up like what everyone expected, which is ok about the ending since, it isn't mystery type of drama anyways, audiences expect a happy ending but my opinion, they could have done better, i have seen a show with similar plot but give me satisfaction with the ending, but this one couldn't deliver that feeling to me.

overall, this one wasn't a bad drama, but about the rewatching value i have nothing at all apart from the cast that interested me since beginning especially the lead female, i love her in every drama she's on.

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A quick review to show my appreciation for a super special Japanese series. From the fabulous acting, to the super unique take on on the show (opening scenes are hilarious!) and the fantastic soundtrack, this show stands out as something truly memorable. I don't know that I've ever seen a Japanese series anywhere similar to this one before and it was a treat to watch. Romantic. Creative. Great Music. Wonderful Acting. I LOVED it! It was hard not to fall for both of the Male Leads, but even the side characters were well rounded. No girls slap-fighting over men, no over-the-top drama, or super jealous people plotting in the background, just a wonderful and heart-warming story. The show had a very old-school Hollywood vibe to it that was really felt through the music choices throughout the series- A serious compliment to the storyline.

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