Arguably Japanese television's most successful template for a series is that of a problematic third-year class whose teacher aims to educate them re: the true things that matter in life before they graduate. The template works because a great acting ensemble set against the backdrop of topical social issues always makes for riveting entertainment, but it's a tired genre. I feel like if I were a Japanese high schooler, watching this endless parade of shows showcasing my type as nothing but entitled, lazy scum of the earth would make me indignant. There is a tendency towards an excess of passion and unsubstantial yelling in classroom dramas like this one. Moreover, they tend to come off as preachy.

This show predictably has the same failings as others of its kind. The kids are irritating, the teacher character gives the vibe of being overly self-righteous, and the twists are predictable. But - as expected of the genre, too - the acting is great; you have a stellar young cast, each of whom carry their own weight. Masaki Suda is also excellent in this, exercising just the right amount of dramatic flair and restraint needed to play a convincing anti-hero. Also, despite how I've seen this type of story so many times, told in so many other ways before, it still made me cry.

Not too shabby.