Every Little Bit Matters

This drama is so much more than the synopsis tells or the trailer shows! I can't even begin to start this review because I have yet to process all of the information of what exactly happened...

As I began watching, during the first few episodes, I wasn't really sure if I wanted to continue. It seemed way more focused on the accounting side of things, the office work, than the detective's and their case work for whatever crime happened within the episode(s). But to say this drama started off slow is also wrong, somehow this story seemed to start from the middle as if the viewer already knew the information necessary while continuing to add on to the information episode by episode.

Each criminal case was thoroughly thought out from beginning to end, including a couple that seemed to be the perfect crime. The cast selected for this show was a bit of a gamble, I think, at least to me. When I watch things with Hashimoto Kanna-san I'm not entirely sure if it will be a dramatic serious type story, or a ridiculous comedy type. And after watching from episode one until the finale, I can assure any new viewers that this show is a perfect blend of both comedy and drama genres, showing off Hashimoto-san's talents in the utmost wonderful of ways! I've seen a few shows and movies she has been in, as a star or supporting cast, but this show truly showcased her best efforts and talents as the show progressed.

Though I don't want to say that she was the only cast member worth watching, because in all honesty she is not the reason why I thought of watching this story... Just a lucky bonus, I guess. One of my absolute favorite actors is Sawamura Ikki, and he was at the top of his game during this show in my opinion. Granted, though, I'm biased. While watching this show I got to see a new side of his talents and was truly impressed with the emotion, hard work, and thoughtful detailing he put in to his acting. Also, I "discovered" actor JP who I thought was really amazing during this story and his character was a bit underrated throughout; it didn't seem like they gave his character enough to do or say even though he always seemed very busy. I don't want to say the creators should have added on a few more episodes exploring the background of Team Yukawa, but I feel like there was more for the supporting roles, from Team Yukawa to the crepe shop to the other police station staff, etc, to say. If that made any sense!


The music really had me singing along as well! Gotta practice learning Japanese somehow and I find that music or a tv show/movie is something that really helps. I'm curious as to why a K-Pop boy group was set up in an episode, and it made me wonder where they were going with that storyline if there was one. I don't feel like Hashimoto Kanna was the lone main role during this show, because it felt like everyone from Team Yukawa and the precinct also were leading roles.


This story truly has something for everyone! Drama, mystery, suspense, thrilling twists, curious crimes, tearful moments and moments of pure joy; the thought or plot line for romance is there, but it doesn't truly amount to much of anything, which I don't think this show needed because it definitely showed one of the multiple meanings of "soulmates" extraordinarily well! I am super curious as to how many people can figure out all of the references in the opening, too! Honestly, I dont think anyone would be disappointed watching this show; I laughed, I cried, I got mad, I got sick to my stomach, and I most assuredly could not figure out the true criminal mastermind! I wonder if you can...?

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Clearing Crimes from the Public and Even the Police..?!

This story is fascinating and had me captivated from episode one! I still have unanswered questions about a few of the episodes, and I believe this show should be given either an updated remake or a second season; the cast, the mystery, the drama was intense and way too epic to just leave at eight episodes!


In all honesty, I'm not entirely sure what to write in this review. The music was an interesting choice, but most definitely escalated or calmed the story when necessary; like adding fuel to a fire! It was nice watching a few cast members I'm familiar with go out of their "ordinary" roles (at least that I've seen them in) or what seemed like they were either trying something new with this casting or testing their limits of what they are capable of. I think my favorite, oddly enough, was Suzuki Kosuke as Shibata-san, truly. The way he was portrayed felt like the rise and fall of an ocean wave; you don't know whats coming next, could be high tide could be low tide could be a jelly fish. Does that make sense? Even though I ironically began this series for two other actors, Takahashi Katsunori and Koizumi Kotaro. Also, am I the only one who thinks Hirayama Hiroyuki sounds like Okada Masaki? I'm excited to see what other shows he is in as well.


I enjoyed seeing the private lives of the detectives as well as the tumultuous lives they led within the police bureaucracy. The higher ranks dragging along the lower ranks, while at home dealing with personal issues ranging from familial to money to relationships. Each issue throughout every episode felt so raw and honest that I began to feel sorry and/or angry for a couple of the characters. Each feeling was portrayed so gutwrenchingly well that I felt sick to my stomach in a couple of the episodes.


I wish this story had 9 episodes, though it doesn't feel like the show was left on a cliffhanger, it sort of was left on a cliffhanger. I most certainly was left with unanswered questions, but I think that's just me and my hope for more episodes! Watching and rooting for the team of underdogs is always entertaining, and in some cases inspiring or even life changing.

If you enjoy dark, twisting, suspense and crime dramas... Then this story may be for you!

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What Can You See..?

This story is truly one of a kind, heartfelt, bittersweet, and gut wrenching. Watching each case as it unfolded was truly mesmerizing! This was a nice, subdued role for some of the actors cast in this show which gave the story itself a big spot to shine.

This story wasn't fast or slow paced, it was really exciting to watch how evenly each episode was as it built up to the final episodes. Fair warning, I watched this series with the last five episodes not subbed, so while I do understand the bare minimum of Japanese, it was a little tricky to fully understand. Though nothing was too confusing or inexplicable really. The music was really beautiful and fueled my need for wanting to continue watching. Even without subtitles, I am really very glad that I continued watching Natsume Emi's story.

I feel like this show may be a bit more philosophical than mystery in genre; though the detective's cases were interesting and a few were impossible to figure out. The cast for each episode was extraordinary, especially the last 2 or 3 episodes. Though that may just be my bias since I really like Kubota Masataka. Also, if you want to watch this show specifically for a certain actor, then that may be okay, too; depending on who it is. Every person cast got their moment in the spotlight, so it never really felt like there was ONLY ONE main character.

If you like detective, slice-of-life, family centered, criminal, about 40% (or 45% i can't really decide) thriller, roller coaster of emotions stories then give this show a chance!

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Dr. White in Wonderland...?

This story was truly a unique one. I've not seen one like it and wonder if I will see another like it in the future. The cast created such an open, curious, fun, relatable, genuine, beautiful story that I couldn't stop watching!


As the story continued through the 10 episodes, honestly I began to feel like I was watching Alice in Wonderland almost. Bits and pieces of each episode started to make my head spin and I felt more and more curious as the show continued. This review may be a little short because, in all honesty, I still cannot wrap my head around this story.


The beginning toward the middle was a wonderful build-up to the finale, however, somewhere in the middle it began to feel like the show was rushed for time a little; nothing confused me or was hard to understand, though. It seemed like pieces were missing, cut for time, or even just shortened. I do wish that there was more story and/or character-building. While each character seemed to get their moment in the spotlight, it too felt like it was cut short. The character's did not seem to be "empty" creations, though, if that makes sense. Each person seemed solid, reliable, and most assuredly knew what they were doing to attribute their talents and genuine personalitiy's to each person.


The opening and ending for this show was done by one of my favorite artists, ADO, so that was also a surprise plus for me as I started the show. I don't want to say that there's a cliffhanger, because I don't think there is, but I do think there are a few bits of the story left open. Like unanswered questions or a place for the viewers imagination to take off! This show is a great beginner for Japanese drama watchers, as well as medical mystery favorites. This story became a quick favorite for me!

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Epically Unexpected!

I have no idea what I was expecting but, in all honesty, this story was most definitely NOT IT! And that is such an amazingly fascinating thing!

This story truly amazed me from the beginning. Breaking the fourth wall, the humor, the situations (both dangerous and unassuming), the dialogue, the scenery, the acting, the story in its entirety... I cannot begin to fathom what type of story this is, except to say that I immediately became a fan.

The story was such a curious one that I couldn't help but be hooked from the beginning; like a tidal wave that swallowed me whole. I've never seen a story like this one, I couldn't even begin to place this story in a specific genre. The actors splendidly outdid themselves with each episode!

There were moments where I laughed out loud, moments that I replayed because I didn't want to miss anything, moments I feared, and moments I absolutely could not understand. I felt the plot line in the pit of my stomach; each episode had me enthralled by the mystery of Hayabusa. The ending was incredible, something that I never predicted. Especially after watching a certain actor in a different show; seeing him in this story (compared to the last one I saw him in) was a complete turnaround, like he was a completely different person!

I fell in love with the Fire Brigade, it was amazing to watch them in action. Some parts of the story seemed a bit creepy, but they all served to make the story as incredible and fantastic as it is! While some points of this story may seem familiar, I guarantee that you have never seen a story like this one before! The show in its entirety is one of the most spectacular shows I've ever seen!

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Was It The Real Ending?

I don't know what I expected from this drama, however.... it wasn't what I watched. I don't know if this story exceeded or met or fell below any or all expectations that I had, though it did fall in the range of "extraordinary" and "thrilling".

This story was very well cast, at first I wasn't sure if a few cast members were the right choice, though the more I continued to watch, the more I was proven wrong. I haven't watched the first series of "Kurosagi" yet, even though I've planned to, so I'm not entirely sure how this remake matches or creates its own story with the original. The music really added to fueling up anticipation for the next episode so much that I'm still looking forward to more stories of Kurosaki, Yoshikawa, Kashina, and everyone else!

I'm curious about the role of the professor at Yoshikawa-san's college, however; I feel like that part could have been played up a bit more, though I can see why it wasn't toward the end. While there didn't seem to be any cliffhanger, per say, the last episode definitely left me wanting more! I'm glad there wasn't a strong romance side story within this show, I think it would have made the storyline a bit complicated and maybe even a little cheesy.

I really liked watching Hirano Sho's take on his character. Seeing his personality come through and the way he portrayed such strong, intense, scary emotions and roles in each episode was really spectacular. I wonder If this show was tough; emotionally, mentally, or even physically. There are a few parts I wish they drew out longer, or gave more definition too, including a few characters, too.

This show really is one of a kind, keeping in mind I haven't seen the first series that started it all. Watching the cast put their unique spin on each story was fascinating. Though I do have a few questions left, I'm not disappointed with how things turned out, so much as I feel like there should have been more to the story; it sort of felt like, toward the end, that there was a rush on time or something like that. I think this show has great rewatching power, and it is most definitely one of my favorites of Hirano Sho's. I think he was supposed to be something of the "main cast/headliner" for this series, although I don't think that would be fair to the rest of the cast selected; everyone was truly incredible! It was nice to see a new side of Hirano Sho, and a few other actors I like, too.

This story definitely leaves you thinking!

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Some Lives Can't Be Saved...?? Or Can They?

In all honesty, I procrastinated watching this show because I assumed it would be a little too scary for my tastes, not to mention way too cheesy and over-the-top unrealistic. However... I was completely mistaken and completely mindblown!


The attention to detail, the cast, and the genuine reality of the word "emergency" brought to life was done so realistically and honestly that I had to remind myself, multiple times, "no this didn't really happen if it did i definitely would have seen it on the news"...... In all seriousness, the stories within each episode were truly epic. Sure a few bits and pieces of the episode, or the emergency scene(s), were exaggerated but nothing was too unrealistic, nothing was too "hollywood cheesy", and pretty much everything made sense as the episode and the story as a whole continued on. The medical jargon is a little hard to follow, but they don't use it too often and theres no cluttering of the screen with long definitions. It really is like watching a live medical rescue.


The casting was a little more than half of the reason why I continued watching, too. I didn't realize Kaname Jun was in this series, even though I've poured over the cast list a few times, but his stern, stoic, and kind character was a good balance between reality and television stories. I wasn't sure about Suzuki Ryohei, but watching him act opposite Kaku Kento as both their characters and as their own person was incredible. I have to say that I see them both in a new light and am excited to see them in many more roles, even ones that I don't expect or agree with.


The opposing of good and evil, or "i'm scared" or "i hate this" and "i'm proud of this job" or "i have confidence/trust i can do this" was fascinating to watch build within each MER team member. I do like that the show seemed to prioritize the story as a whole and did not delve too deep into filler episodes of past lives; though that doesn't mean they never did, it was just done efficiently and almost privately, as if revealing bits and pieces until the big climax moment for each character, the episode, or the show's finale.


If you like thrilling mysteries, epic adventure, medical dramas, then I definitely suggest giving this show a try! My only complaint? The finale episode wasn't long enough. Hah!


Although, there are a few more stories to be seen in the TOKYO MER special, spin-off, and movie!

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Threw Me for a Loop

This story was definitely something special. The creators, staff, actors, and everyone involved took their time to create something incredible! There are similar story lines out there, absolutely, however this one is most certainly in a stage of its own.


Each episode really built up the suspense until the final moment, and I could never guess, not even once, what was actually going on. The cast was really interesting; I feel like the "journalist" character could have been a little less "main character", however. Though, after watching the show in its entirety, the "journalist" character was someone necessary to the story, too.


Watching each case unfold was extremely fascinating, too. Seeing each surgery and the story behind it, especially while the main mystery was building up, was really exciting and had me sitting on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what would happen next!


The ending was a surprise that I never imagined, let alone saw, coming. This story left me wanting more from both the actors cast as their characters and the "Dr. Chocolate" team! If you're interested in medical dramas or stories full of suspense that give you goosebumps or an eccentric cast, then this show is a must watch!

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Completely Unexpected

This show was absolutely what the synopsis said it was.... However, it was also the complete opposite! From episode one, I did not expect this story to be so exciting. I read the synopsis, saw it had 28 episodes and completely judged a "book" by its cover!


The cast really sold this story well. From the beginning, I only knew about 3-4 actors/actresses throughout the entire show; however, as I continued watching it truly was the cast of wonderful actors and actresses that made this story so fantastic. I laughed, cried, got angry (i've never disliked a character so fast lol), was scared, and even held my breath in some spots. Each episode was a surprise. The story seemed to move pretty quickly, though it didn't feel like there was any cliffhanger moment or any questions left unanswered.


This story is great for a binge day or if you're just starting out watching Japanese dramas, since it has a little bit of every genre in one story. I do wish they had more than 28 episodes, honestly; I would really like to see more of Kanaka, Masa, and everyone! This show is the definition of "dont judge a book by its cover"... I hope you give it a chance!

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Thrilling Mystery

This may be one of the most roller coaster suspenseful mystery shows I've seen in a long time. At first I wanted to watch the show because of the cast and synopsis, but as I continued through the episodes its like I was trapped in a trance. I couldn't get enough of the story, or the characters. While the story itself seemed familiar, it did not seem like anything I had ever seen before; what I chose to believe was familiar, however, were bits and pieces within the story as a whole, instead of the entire show.


It was nice to see Masuda Takahisa in a suspenseful role while showing off his comedic timing as well. He is one of a few actors that I like who seems to be able to dive so deeply into his character that he seems to truly become them. It was also nice to see a few new faces that I began to like because of this show; in fact, I thought Ukisho Hidaka was Hirano Sho considering their voices sound so similar. Watching Ukisho Hidaka was intense; this is my first time watching a show/movie of his and he is extraordinary! The way he practiced in the dojo, the way he carried himself as an influential person yet somehow under the radar, while still being the definition of a teenager and somehow seeming so grown up. Ukisho Hidaka is truly a mastermind of acting; it would be nice to see lots more of his talent and skill.


The music genuinely paired well with the show as well; it hyped up the story or kept me on the edge of my seat with the suspenseful thrills! I truly could not figure out who did what, or when; or even what was to happen in the next scene, let alone the next episode. To watch Ukisho Hidaka practice in the dojo was honestly beautiful; the way his body moved with force, while staying calm and confident of his movements and handling were incredible. Which only makes me more excited to see him in future castings.


The show is familiar, yet completely different; it has some of the same scenarios that each Japanese crime/mystery show seems to have... But definitely surpasses your expectations, and is most assuredly nothing like anything you've seen before!

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Fun~

Before I start the review, I want to put a disclaimer that I only began this show after reading the manga and watching the anime, however far back that was, and thought of giving the show a chance, too, and I was not disappointed!

The cast worked so well together that I didn't even realize I was watching a show until the episode ended. It was like watching a movie or reality television of life on "Goto Island". Each episode was hilarious, heartfelt, and extraordinarily cheerful, even with the sadder moments. I don't want to say the show taught me lessons about life within each episode, but it was truly wonderful to watch each character grow, overcome, and excel at whatever troubles each episode brought up. The dialect from the island was fascinating to listen to, too; I could listen to them talk all day! However, the big surprise to me was seeing two of my favorite actors in the show (Endo Kenichi and Okada Yoshinori) who I didn't even realize were in the cast, and most definitely fueled my excitement to continue watching.


I laughed a lot during the entire show, and yes even learned a few life lessons or how to look at a situation differently, but this show is way too good to be only 11 episodes. I would have liked to of seen more character development between a few of the islanders. I was very much enthralled with each story in every episode and the entire series, too. I could see the similarities between the live-action, manga, and anime as "Barakamon", though I could also catch a few differences in each adaptation that created a brand new story ever time.

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This drama is one of the best medical/forensics, detective/crime, and mystery shows I've seen! If you're expecting something darker, then you probably won't get that from this story; however, not one moment of this story is lacking in suspense or drama!

Each bit of this story fits together like a skeleton (pun intended) and the thrills and suspense within each episode fit together piece by piece to create a magnificent story filled with genuine, raw human emotion and honesty that is something very fitting with reality.

The actors and actresses that portray each person have a wonderful talent and respect for their skill and their work that is almost tangible and feels as if they've been swallowed by the character they are acting as, while the viewer(s) watch the story unfold. Each episode is very unique and completely different to any stories I've seen or read before, this show and its story are very intriguing!

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At the beginning of this drama, I thought it would be something a bit darker and I was afraid to start watching because I am a giant scaredy-cat; I can't even watch horror movie trailers! But, I am so glad that I started watching this drama, even though I haven't seen the first series. Part of me watched this because of Sakurai Sho and Yokoyama You, but as the show went on, all of the contestants and production crew and supporting roles became super interesting. Sakurai Sho took his acting skills to a completely new level; at some points, I even forgot it was him as MC Kamiyama/Kamiyama Satoru! Yokoyama You is also really, really good at portraying the "evil/bad guy" character! I was engulfed in this show from the beginning, I absolutely love this show!

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There are "criminals".... And Then.... There are "Criminals".... Which is Which? Who is Who?

This is one of the most twisted, mysterious, curious, imaginative, and dramatic story's I have watched in a long time! I had to take a break between the last 4 episodes because the show was intense and my mind needed a break! Such a curious storyline, with tiny bits of familiarity, paired with a fantastic cast created an extraordinary show!


In this cast were a few familiars, a few unknowns, but no actors or characters that I didn't like. With the main cast being Takahashi Issei (who and why I originally began watching this show) and Shibasaki Ko, there weren't a lot of ways to go wrong in the first place. But when you add in the supporting cast of Kiritani Kenta, Itagaki Rihito, Arioka Daiki, Hotta Akane, Nagayama Kento, and so many more... The cast alone truly created an incredible show!


Watching all of their hard work during each episode, from fighting to solving puzzles and learning to think on their feet while also working as a team, was fascinating. I don't believe I've seen a main cast, supporting cast, and guest cast come together and work so well together quite as quickly and (for lack of a better word) perfectly as these wonderful actors have.


This story had it all, really! Romance, comedy, action, dramatics, mystery, a little gore tossed in, as well. It all moved together slowly, like the building of a tornado; gathering all of the main suspects together, spreading out to different areas to build the story, then crashing to Earth with a vegenance of an epic finale. While I have read other comments on a couple of different sites that say its boring or predictable or not what the viewer imagined, I want to say: PLEASE IGNORE THEM! PLEASE WATCH AND FORM YOUR OWN OPINION!

This show will really get you thinking. What is real? What is the truth? Can I believe them? Can I believe her/him? Is this real? I think a really good show or art or book or play or even a song can become something that will teach or help someone to find something new, begin again, create something themselves, answer questions, stir the imagination, and much more. And I believe that this show is an incredible, captivating story! Be it the cast, the script, the adventure, the talent, the action.... There truly is something in this show for everyone to enjoy!

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Perfect blend of reality with what we hope for~

The story of the Maki and Kuwahara families, along with their friends and co-workers, is an epic not to be missed. This is one of the most accurate, relateable, genuine, raw, honest, and beautiful telling of life as we know it; the ups and downs, the terrifying and exciting, the scary and hopeful, the good and bad.


This season of Kansatsui Asagao truly served as a beautiful and honest visual story telling of life itself. It broke my heart to continue watching some episodes along the way, but "that's life". And honestly, this wonderful story has very extraordinarily told the story of life's ups and downs, the peaks and valleys, the despair along with the joyous moments so very well. I don't want to say this story is dark and depressing, or full of medical jargon or gory details, because it isn't; however, this series does a splendid job at telling the truth for both sides of life, without hiding one detail.


A couple of episodes broke my heart or took my breath away, I simply couldn't believe what was happening or think of what was to come. I really respect the cast, creators, writers, directors, staff, etc... for showing their respect, kindness, understanding, and compassion to the March 11th tragedy throughout this series; that had to be hard to do. While I didn't cry during the first or second season, I did tear up a lot! As a foreigner, it was hard for me to remember March 11th, though not as hard as it had to of been for the actually Japanese, more specifically for Ueno Juri, Tokito Saburo, Ishida Hikari, and Emoto Akira. To have to deal with their roles throughout the series haad to have been tough, mentally and emotionally; and possibly physically.


It was really a treat to have such "cute relief" during the heartbreaking and hard moments from such a hard working and talented actor as Nagase Yuzuna; I look forward to more of her work! Watching Tokito Saburo as Maki Taira was incredible, his talent and power never cease to amaze me.


I wish there was more of this family to watch! Their story is a lovely story of life, how to win in the dark moments, and even how to celebrate both the good and the bad. The atmosphere created throughout this series showed one of the more realistic "slice-of-life" story's I have seen in a very long time!

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