I’m Liking The Sound Of…

• Atashinchi no Danshi

Horikita Maki‘s character marries a man who offers to pay off her debts that her father made, and moves into an eccentric family. I think (hope) this will be quirky and fun, and there are lots of well know guys in it: Kaname Jun, Okada Yoshinori, Mukai Osamu, and Yamamoto Yusuke have been announced so far.

• Hyoryu Net Cafe

Toki Koichi leads a pretty dull life. Until he meets his first love again in an internet cafe. Suddenly something happens with the electricity and he and everyone else get stuck in the cafe which has become a strange universe… or something. Perhaps it’ll be something like Long Love Letter, the drifting classroom drama. Stars Ito Atsushi who I hope wont be doing another Densha Otoko take with his character.
Also staring Asami Reina, and KIKI

Hmmmm? Dunno…

• Ghost Friends

Fukuda Saki plays a girl who can see ghosts after a car accident. Then she falls inlove with one of the ghosts. Nishijima Takahiro plays the love interest. Sounds OK, I like ghosts, but also doesn’t really sound that exciting at the moment… I think this one is aimed at a young audience, but I could be wrong.

• Smile

Staring Matsumoto Jun as a half-Filipino with no family and Aragaki Yui who can’t speak…. something about always smiling. Yeah, the story line sounds a bit twee but I’ll watch the first couple of eps for the cast!

• Majo Saiban

Ikuta Toma is chosen as a Juror on the trial of a suspected woman’s murderer trial. Yeah, from that name alone you know I’ll be watching, but at the moment this one feels like it is just going to educate us on the juror (jurial? I’m not sure) system. Hope it proves me wrong.
Also staring Kato Ai and Higa Manami

• Boku no Imoto

Staring Odagiri Joe and Nagasawa Masami, this is another “maybe” because of cast. The two are siblings with a close bond because of the death of their parents. However, Masami’s character isn’t the brightest and makes bad choices, testing the strength of the sibling’s relationship. Could be OK maybe…

Noteables

• Konkatsu!

About a single salary man in his mid 30s. Everyone around him talks about marriage so he begins to think about it as well. Noteable because Nakai Masahiro is staring in this! From Smap, for the past couple of Star Bowling eps that I’ve been watching he’s been wishing to be in another drama. His wish has come true!
- also stars Ueto Aya, Sato Ryuta, and Matsukata Hiroki

The story of Tsukushi Makino, a poor girl who goes to a school filled with rich people. Then there is this group of boys called the “F4″, a group of rich bullies. Well, really, only one is the bully, a Tsukasa Domioji. The group decides to pick on Makino, which is the biggest mistake they could have made as she plans to fight back…

This was one of the first dramas that I watched, and is thus will always have a special place in my heart. I also read (in English) the manga years ago, and was one of the things that contributed to my Japanese learning journey.

This drama was also the start of a love affair with Matsumoto Jun. At first I didn’t get his appeal, but then he had me on his hook – another one Jun baited. We flirted for a while, but eventually I dumped him and moved on to different pastures.

Episode One has Makino get the reg tag, and thus becomes bullied by the school. Makino is a great heroine because she stands up for herself. Tsukasa, on the other hand, is a real piece of work. I’d forgotten how mean he was, how horrible he could be. I was definitely rooting for Rui at the start. I can’t remember if it was the same with the manga, it’s been so many years since I read it.

We do get a bit of insight into Tsukasa’s home life, so we gain a bit of perspective on why he is a huge a hole. The poor (figuratively) boy has issues, that’s for sure.

I love the punch near the end. *Pow*, right in the kisser. And then it ends on a cliff hanger, getting kidnapped by Tsukasa… oooh, what will happen next??

Overall, this is a pretty strong first episode for a drama compared to most. And hey, I already said I’ll probably be a bit biased to this, as it’s like a “precious” childhood memory.

Get Hana Yori Dango on DVD! Hana Yori Dango Japan Version Hana Yori Dango English Version (Hong Kong)

In the last poll, Shoushi vs Knight, Soushi was the clear winner with 61% of the votes. Congrats Soushi, you won our (and, somewhat, Riko’s too!) hearts.

This round it’s the battle of the Mop Hair Do. Which one does it for you? If any at all. But, you have to choose one. This may end up being a battle of the fan girls, but it’s all in good fun! So, which hair would you clean your floor with? Vote now, and share in the comments!

Bambino!
バンビーノ!
Episode 6

Ban sucks at being a waiter. Like, really sucks. Ever had pasta in your drink before? Never the less, with the help of his friends, he practises to make perfect. Umm, yeah, not much to it… hey, I watch this for the Ban-perve, what’s your excuse?

Bambi as a waiter goes from bad to worse. But, doesn’t it feel like he is hardly trying? And, well, surely he must realise that everyone starts out somewhere.

Asuka and Masashi come to the rescue. It’s what Ban needs I think, some friends. I think the three of them have great chemistry.

But then Bambi again goes all feeling sorry for himself. It was cute the first time, but it’s episode 6 for goodness sake. It feels so pathetic. And then the snob says something nice to him, and he’s all “I’m so awesome” again. He is full of himself. I’m glad Yonamine came and told him off (even if it was sudden and out of character and pointless).

Oh, and we get some Ban and Katori love near the end of this episode. Yay!

Ban finally gets some friends

Ban feeling sorry for himself. Ban feeling full of himself. I think the show needs more Katori.

Over all… meh. I didn’t even feel like I got a good Matsumoto Jun perve in this episode. *sigh*

Bambino!
バンビーノ!
Episode 5

Ban has to be a waiter, and wait his way into the kitchen. Unfortunatly, his heart just isn’t in it. Cue lots more Ban sulking. However, there is some developments in the relationship between Ban, Asuka and that other guy. I forget his name. And Ban/Katori developments! Woo hoo!

Ban is a HOT waiter. Ban should aspire to become a waiter model. And I really love Jun’s hair in this. I think this show would absolutely suck if it wasn’t for the eye candy. I mean, do any guys watch this show?

I love the weird guy. That guy who doesn’t talk. He reminds me of a chibi character from an anime – I mean a generic chibi character, not anything one/thing in particular. Maybe it’s just me.

You know, I think Jun has perfected the evil smile. I’d love to see him as a bad guy in a drama. More interesting than a wimpy guy.

Poor Ban. His pan doesn’t look non-stick. My pans are not non-stick. It makes me cry.

I love the toilet scenes. There should be more toilet scenes in dramas.

Ah, Ban is completely helpless. Bambi is a very suitable name for him. He definitely is this helpless little faun. He is really immature and needs to learn his place. Not just that, he needs to learn not to take everything to heart. Hopefully he will grow as a character soon.

Ah, Katori is only denying his feelings in this episode. We know he’s inlove with Ban. And Asuka just tells it like it is. You go girl! (wow, that sounded so 90′s).

Ban is way too full of himself. Either he’s feeling sorry for himself or he’s thinking he’s God’s gift to the world. He needs to shape up!!

Bambino!
バンビーノ!
Episode 4

Ban’s back home with his Girlfriend but he dearly misses that place he went to with the food and stuff. So he decides he’s going to quit university, pack his bags and move to Tokyo permanently to pursue his career as a chef. But Eri, the girlfriend, doesn’t want to give up her whole life just for Ban. So she goes on a journey to that restaurant that I forget the name of, to see what Ban is all about.

I really don’t see the chemistry between Ban and Eri. I envision that Ban will realise that she is as important to him as cooking – other wise I don’t really see much point to her being in this drama. Still, there is no chemistry. There is more chemistry between Ban and Katori – they are so cute together.

Do those two share a single bed? Their bed is tiny. How do they sleep?

Their date was very sweet and fun. I love how he was pulling her along but at the end she was pulling him along. Shame it had to end badly. Ban has his passions and he is right to follow them. Just as she is right for following hers. I admire that she will not blindly follow him. She may be homely (which often gives the misconception that the person will do anything for their man) but she is also her own person.

But, as she has stood up for her own wants and dreams, so must Ban. Cooking is obviously his passion and he has a fantastic opportunity here in an upscale restaurant.

So Eri journeys to the restaurant to see what Ban is willing to leave her for. In this scene, man her dress is the definition of innocence and purity. Imagine how she must look to the kitchen staff. Imagine if they knew she was Ban’s girlfriend.

Asuka comes to comfort the teary Eri – Asuka may be tough but she has a kind side to her as well. However, never insult a girl holding a big knife!

So after this whole experience, Eri understands just why Ban wants to – has to!- go back to that place. What she doesn’t realise is he is actually insane – well, if he wasn’t before he is now after the head fight he had with the pole.

Next episode looks like it’s going to be a lot of fun!

Bambino!
バンビーノ!
Episode 3

It’s a busy weekend. Ban starts to realise what he can do to be even better than he can be. And then, it’s comes to the end of Ban’s stay at the restaurant in Tokyo, and yet he still hasn’t done any real cooking. He begins to think about his future and what he wants to do…

In case you are wondering, I write my reviews as I watch…. So, here’s my thoughts on this episode as it happens.

Yay! Smoking is disgusting Ban. Get rid of those disgusting smokes. Ah, that’s better.

The black and white flashes and write looks like its supposed to be in a car racing movie rather than a cooking show. Maybe its suposed to be to give it an edge but it feels out of place.

How can a fancy restaurant not have an electronic dishwasher?

I like the contrast between the calm restaurant and really busy kitchen.

The camera sways side to side, moving in and out to emphasise movement, fast pace. I guess they need something to make a cooking show look exciting.

I am hoping for more character development soon.

Ban tries so hard, which is great, but he takes compliments to heart and can be so full of himself. I do love a show with Jun on the toilet. Priceless.

Ban realises there may be more to running a restaurant than he thought. But cooking is in his blood, as he misses cooking.

He’s crying! Don’t cry Bambi, I will hold you. His lips look juicy in this scene. So very juicy. Am I getting sidetracked from the show? I wonder what gloss he uses.

This show is getting more interesting. I’m glad.

He looks on his time there as a good learning experience. Ban, come cook for me!

I like the strange chef who is always by himself and catches Ban in the toilet. It adds a bit of quirkiness to the show. I like quirky.

I love the end. Choke her! Choke her! I mean… um….

I have to say, I enjoyed this episode. This show is getting better. Next week’s episode also looks exciting. Some character development, not just Ban! Not that there is anything wrong with looking at Ban. I’m glad this is getting better. After a slow start, I’m starting to really like the show.

Bambino!
バンビーノ!
Episode 2

In this episode Ban tries his hardest in the kitchen. Chopping veges and washing dishes, however, isn’t what he pictured he’d be doing. And then, he gets careless and chops off his finger…

Damn Jun is かっこいい！ I mean Ban. This is about Ban. Yes. えと… Ban likes to challenge himself. That’s nice. He’s also very conceited – although I think this is good because it leaves room for personal growth within the show.

Mmmm I love Italian food. How awesome would it be to work in an Italian Gourmet restaurant and have the best chefs cook you lunch. Mmmmm.

Asuka seems to be an interesting character. More interesting than the girlfriend.

I don’t like the black and white flashes. It seems like they are trying to make the show more “edgy” and I don’t think it works. It’s a cooking show for goodness sake!

I like Jun’s hair in this. It looks good. Jun looks good. Am I getting sidetracked again?

The episode looks exciting – except the build up with “Weekends are twice as busy” sounds really contrived. I hope this show starts to get a bit better soon. I’ll keep watching for Jun

Bambino!
バンビーノ!

Bambino is the story of Ban Shogo, played by the one and only Matsumoto Jun, a coutry boy who comes to Tokyo with the desire to be a chef. In his home town of Fukuoka he was praised as being an excellent chef, but in Tokyo he realises that he has a lot to learn. Still, he has a determination to keep at it to be the best chef he can be.

To sum up this episode, it was OK. Of course one of the strong attractions I have to watching this show is MatsuJun, being my favourite Japanese actor (or my Japanese Boyfriend as I like to call him – however my Australian boyfriend doesn’t like it when I say that ). Is MatsuJun enough to keep me amused? Well, yes he is, but I am allowed to be shallow some times in my life.

Not much happens in this episode. I thought the chemistry between Ban and his girlfriend was non existent. Luckily she wasn’t in it much. Ban smoking = two thumbs down. Ban being emotional and crying and stuff = one thumb up. Ban being full of himself = amusing as well. There wasn’t much comedy (something I love)… There really wasn’t much there. But I will persist, and hopefully it’ll get better.

This is the story of Yamaguchi Kumiko, 23 years old and single, who is the new maths teacher at Shirokin High School. Her home room is 3-D, the class full of all the misfits of the school. Kumiko also has a secret. She is a 4th generation heir to the Ooedo Group – think of the Japanese Mafia. If the school finds out about this, she will be fired.

Gokusen, a quirky little drama, but nothing substantially original in it.

This is the story of Yamaguchi Kumiko, 23 years old and single, who is the new maths teacher at Shirokin High School. Her home room is 3-D, the class full of all the misfits of the school. Kumiko also has a secret. She is a 4th generation heir to the Ooedo Group – think of the Japanese Mafia. If the school finds out about this, she will be fired.

The story itself is, of course, very predictable and every episode is essentially the same; One of the boys in her grade will be in trouble or be accused of something that they didn’t do… Kumiko, or Yamkumi as she is affectionately called by her students, comes to the rescue – beating up the bad guys single handedly, believing in the students without fail. She manages to capture their hearts. *awww*

And of course you know the cues… Every episode you wait for the lines… “Who are you?” “I’m their home room teacher.” And every episode will be the contrived speech about the moral lesson they have learned…

I say all these bad things about it, but it did have it’s positives. Mainly the funny bits. Yamkumi always managed to obviously give away her yakuza heritage. She was a very humorous character… As was the vice-principal. With a hair style like that, who could take him seriously! And the students themselves were… ah, well, what can I say, I was only paying attention to Sawada Shin.

Ah, watch it just for the funny bits. Watch it once, don’t expect too much, and just enjoy it for what it is. The story itself is, of course, very predictable and every episode is essentially the same; One of the boys in her grade will be in trouble or be accused of something that they didn’t do… Kumiko, or Yamkumi as she is affectionately called by her students, comes to the rescue – beating up the bad guys single handedly, believing in the students without fail. She manages to capture their hearts. *awww*

And of course you know the cues… Every episode you wait for the lines… “Who are you?” “I’m their home room teacher.” And every episode will be the contrived speech about the moral lesson they have learned…

I say all these bad things about it, but it did have it’s positives. Mainly the funny bits. Yamkumi always managed to obviously give away her yakuza heritage. She was a very humorous character… As was the vice-principal. With a hair style like that, who could take him seriously! And the students themselves were… ah, well, what can I say, I was only paying attention to Sawada Shin.

Ah, watch it just for the funny bits. Watch it once, don’t expect too much, and just enjoy it for what it is.