Ossan's Love (2018)

Love, love, LOVE this series! It's got comedy, drama, silliness, poignancy and heart. Even better, the actors here are REAL actors and play their roles beautifully.

Kei Tanaka steals the show as Haruta, a comic genius with major acting chops. Kotaro Yoshida is spectacular as the "Ossan," totally believable as an older gentleman who has become head-over-heels smitten with a naive and much younger man. One of my favorite moments is the surprise proposal scene in Episode 7: Haruta's reactions are priceless and the whole thing is just great.

My only complaint is that the storyline sometimes moves ahead a bit too quickly, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons in this fantastic series.

I will rewatch this again and again. Can't wait for the sequel!

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What a mess

From episode one I asked myself what I've gotten myself into. Since it's only seven episodes long, I didn't want to drop it, since the comedy was quite enjoyable, but that's the only thing this drama has going for itself.

The main character got went through basically zero character development and remained hopeless until the very end. The development of his relationship with his potential love interests... was it even there? Except for some forced kisses and his boss making moves on him, we don't see much, as in, Haruta didn't seem to be very interested in any of the two, he just seemed to go with the flow.
Haruta's character of the crazy and careless kind, he's often loud and can't take proper care of himself after his mother left the house. If you don't like characters like this, he will definitely annoy you to death (which surprisingly wasn't the case for me). What did bother me though, is, as I said before, he never seemed to show genuine romantic interest, even in the person he ended up with.

Maki as a character was okay, I don't have anything special to say about him except that he certainly deserved better.

Chief Kurosawa often had me cringing hard, but at least he knew what he wanted and had a clear end goal, in comparison to Haruta.

The best character, for me, was definitely Haruta's friend Teppei with his incognito songs and weird recipes.

In conclusion, Ossan's Love could have been really good.

It touched on a lot of ~incoventional~ love relationships, such as same sex couples or couples with a big age gap, which I really appreciate. But the execution was, in my opinion, very poorly done though,
I can't exactly pinpoint what, but something in this drama was missing. The plot and characters lacked substance, a little more backstory on some characters might've also been nice, but there's only so much you can do in a certain period of time. The way the story progressed was kind of chaotic and all over the place, even the editing could be described the same way in some scenes. Also, the way some characters would aggressively pin the other on the wall or grab them by the hand, it looked like it might've been actually painful.
This drama was definitely not what I expected, but it still left much to wish for.

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The series that shook the media (trended no.1 on twitter worldwide) and broadcasted on mainstream TV Asahi. Features well-known actors and actresses, which is a significant change from a given bl or LGBT themed film/series.

The story may seem exaggerated and parodied; however, if looking beyond those aspects, the show is a gem. A well-balanced series that tackles serious topics and merges them in a comedic tone without coming across as mockery.

Each side character has a chance to shine throughout the show and get involved in the story narrative. The characters are all chaotic; however, each has their unique traits which could be enjoyable to watch.

The cons I have noticed is despite breaking from the common bl trope, the character development of the main leads are backtracked to extend the duration of the show. Which I found problematic as I felt frustrated that our main protagonist is portrayed indecisive throughout the series with minimal growth.

Overall, if you don't mind shows that don't delve too much in-depth but seeking comedy, non-high school setting and romance I would recommend this show. Would also recommend if considering watching a bl themed drama however not seeking any sexual content but more so the bonds formed between the characters.

The first episode can be a bit of an escalation; however, it gets better and balanced in later episodes.

Story 8.5/10 - May seem cliche at first but becomes more intriguing as characters interact and the story unfolds.
Character development 7/10 - Reasons for some of the characters actions could feel unclear unless rewatched.
Acting 9/10 - Some exaggerated acting but profound moments are well performed.
OST 7.5/10 - Each ost conveyed character emotions; however, some were repetitive and felt plain.
Rewatch value - 8/10 - Would consider watching for missed moments of characters to reflect on how it adds to the story. The comedic moments are meme-worthy and would consider watching after a long busy day.

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This was a wonderfully sweet story that had me laughing out loud with every episode! It was relatable and very genuine, but also a one of a kind story with a fantastic cast that literally had me holding my breath until the very last second of the very last episode. How it ended was really wonderful, but it ended way too soon! I know there is a 2016 version, but I haven't found that anywhere to watch yet, but I think this series could definitely do well with a few more episodes or even a special! This is definitely a show that will have you "catching all the feels"... but I absolutely recommend this fantastic series!

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I strongly recommend watching this high

Listen everyone, I am a gay man, I haven’t watched a drama since my friend in high school sat me down and made me binge k-drama’s with her, I have no idea what compelled me to watch this, but I’m so glad I did. Watched the first two episodes high as a kite off edibles, and maybe it was my lack of sobriety but this is the funniest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. The comedic timing, the strange shots, the slapstick comedy, it’s perfect, I love it.

I don’t usually watch BL dramas (or dramas in general) because most of the time stuff like this just doesn’t feel quite right, like I know it’s about gay men but I never feel like it was made with gay men actually in mind. But I like this drama, I like this drama a lot. It’s surprisingly progressive and wholesome. Even after I was no longer high I continued to enjoy it. I would recommend this to anyone. I loved the sexy old man, I’m not really into the hot young twink types so it was great to see a different type of guy portrayed in this. The actor did a great job and the character was hilarious.

I enjoyed every second of this and it’s got me thinking I should give drama’s more of a chance, like maybe I’m missing out on some real gems because of my preconceived notions. I feel like I’m coming out of this experience a more open minded person.

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This was a blast to watch. I'm not considered myself as a fujoshi as I love BL but I also like and watch other types as long as they are good. BL gerne-wise, this one is on the top of my list.

I have watched heaps of BLs but for Japanese BL series, not so much as they're usually poorly played and filmed. But this one is amazing, from the story writing to the acting, perfection.

I usually judge a BL movie based on the story writing, the acting and the chemistry of the mains. Tbh I don't feel the chemistry between Haruta and Kurosama, but they were very funny. As for Haruta and Maki, urgh, my heart. Theirs was, how should I say, Idk I just love it. You have to watch and see it for yourself. The chemistry between two mains in Japanese BLs is usually very forced but theirs, I can feel theirs. They kissed, but none of the kisses was actually a kiss? They were all just lips touching lips, which was a shame as I love good kisses. The last one when Haruta finally initiated looked good but too bad they cut it half way. I wish they gave Haruta a little bit more time to finish it. That one's promising.

About the acting, all actors and actresses played their roles well. Everyone was loveable and all the characters were open-minded and had their time to shine. I have nothing to complain yet I JUST WANT JUSTICE FOR MAKI! I think the actor did a GREAT JOB and Maki was convincing as a nice and shy and insecure person to me. Idk why some of you said he didn't do well? BUT idk if it's because it's Japanese that the acting is quite comical and over-expressed? At first I thought it was a live action remade from a manga but it's not. Yes the series was rush and that's also a shame, I wish they gave the actors more screen time to show character development. Like, I want to change their thoughts a bit. I want Maki to become more secure about their relationship and stop acting on his own and hurt Haruta. For Haruta, I want him to show more affection. I feel more love from Maki's side than Haruta's side. Seriously in some scenes Maki broke my heart with just his eyes. But as they are filming either Season 2 or a movie for Ossan's Love atm, I guess maybe they did that on purpose, like to give some rooms for characters to develop? Some Taiwanese BLs did very well on character development, maybe Japanese directors can refer to them? I'd suggest History 2: Crossing The Line. Short but gold.

I love the story writing of this. I didn't read any descriptions or spoilers before watching it, I just randomly watched it because I was bored, thus I was super nervous because I didn't know who he would end with (I was rooting for Maki from the very beginning and I was like if he didn't end up with Maki this series is sh!t lol sorry). Full of surprises but may trigger you if you're very against sexual harassment. Don't get me wrong I hate it with all my guts but for some reasons, those scenes to me were not annoying. I guess because the whole series has a comical vibe? Anyway, the only downside of the story writing is the lack of depth in characters' characteristics but it was full of surprises and laughter so I just looked passed it. The side characters had good storylines as well, I was rooting for Chouko and that young boy.

All in all, I'd highly recommend this to anyone who like BL but don't care too much about hot gay scenes.

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Ridiculous & Hilarious!

Highly entertaining, funny and over-the-top. I liked it! I haven't seen a Thai BL with this kind of flavor (yet).

Haruta is a good guy, but he's clueless and oblivious, taking advantage of Maki who takes such good care of him. I wonder if he is actually bisexual or straight but confused. I hope that this isn't another BL where a straight ML becomes gay all of a sudden for plot development.

He's such a pushover, not wanting to upset anyone to the risk of his own happiness and life. He doesn't want a relationship, he just wants someone to take care of him.

All in all, this was a good time! I liked the characters and the story was well-devloped. The comedy was on point. Though the story was another straight-guy-becomes-gay-for-plot, it was still entertaining as hell. It was nice seeing gay people be treated with respect and star in a rom-com series. However, there wasn't much substance and was rather quite fluffy. In addition, it does get a bit annoying and irritating when the story drags out Haruta consistently unintentionally leading people on. Still a fun time though and I will be watching its sequel film right after.

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I can't believe i enjoyed this series!

Why when i watch film/series that i don't have intent turns out into satisfying show??!!?

Ossan's love is a cute, weird and fun series. The storyline is neither good nor bad yet it is fun. Haruta is a guy who can not say "no" to people, he also a fool. But his foolness attract two men in their office. first is his senior Musashi-san, second is his Junior Maki-san. Both decided to living together in Haruta's house since his mother moved away. With a little of humorous scene, you will laugh at some of its. The music is just ordinary, I give speciall point to the actor who plays as Haruta for his crying scene. I second for this series after seven days and can't decide between Takumi-kun series or this when it goes into Japan Bl Drama. I like Haruta & Maki couple aaaaakhhhhh!!!

Ps: Japan you should make another cute bl drama series >.<

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Fun For Comedy, More Bromance Than Romance

Purposefully absurdist. It's very much like a manga with exaggerated behaviors, facial expressions, and vocal exclamations for comedic effect. It's odd, goofy, and sometimes borderline cringe from the ridiculous situations created. I was in the right mood for it, however, and found myself laughing out loud at least once every episode.

GENERAL SPOILERS BELOW.
The story did an interesting job in giving examples of different types of love. But two major things didn't work for me.
First, the main character isn't very likeable (though the actor makes him fun to watch!). He's hard working, positive, and kind with clients so you see why other people may be interested in him initially. But he's not that thoughtful with the people close to him, and he doesn't show character growth in this regard, even when it's pointed out to him (repeatedly). He's a good natured bumbling idiot who wants to keep the peace and avoid confrontations.

Second, mutual romantic love is in very short supply. It supposedly comes to fruition at the end for the lead, but his interactions with his lover don't support this. It starts like a bromance and ultimately stays feeling that way. For that reason the ending landed a bit flat for me.

I rated the acting by all highly because even though it's exaggerated, it is conciously done by the actors for comedic effect, and they succeed well in what they're aiming to achieve. The actors playing the main character and the boss were especially dynamic and enjoyable to watch.

Music didn't distract but there was nothing specifically memorable either.

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Possibly the best BL drama I've seen!

I seriously had no idea what to expect going in. I haven't watched a Japanese drama in over 10 years, let alone a BL one but I was extremely surprised by how much I enjoyed this one. I was put off initially when the second male interest was so much older but by the end of ep 1 I was completely hooked. I found myself laughing so much. The characters were fantastic and really well acted. Most BL I've watched has really mediocre acting but the cast did a great job, despite the over the top Japanese tropes. I was very much invested in the 2 male leads and rooted for Maki like crazy. Their chemistry was fantastic and although Haruta is an idiot, he's super charming. I didn't love the last episode as much as I felt the whole wedding thing was unnecessary and tacky. The story isn't new or original but I'm a sucker for this type of story where the main lead learns to accept his feelings. The supporting cast was also great. When going into a BL, I have low expectations as they're typically very low budget with servicable stories, acting, directing and camera work but I can't stop gushing over this drama. I liked at the poster and cast for the second season and I don't think I can get myself to watch it. I'm so invested in and love Maki that I don't think I'm ready for him to not be with Haruta. Especially after all he went through.

This show isn't super deep with strong messages but I don't think it needs to be. It's very light, fluffy and heavy on comedy but it doesn't everything super well. The characters drive the drama and it wouldn't work if you're not invested in them. 7 episodes is short and typically BL dramas leave so much to desire, but I felt the length was completely fine. I wish they had more skinship and showing the leads in the relationship more, not necessarily bed scenes either. Also, I feel the show could've done better at depicting Haruta coming to terms with his feelings/sexuality and accepting them. My biggest issue with him was I felt at any moment he would just turn away from Maki and that he wasn't truly in love with him. His confusion and uncertainty came off a bit more as complacency and wanting comfort. I also got tired of the Chief by the end. His relentlessness got old and it's hard to believe H would just easily accept living with him, let alone accept the marriage especially after the whole debacle with the wife. But overall I had a really fun time watching this show and recommend it.

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Yesterday night, after finishing the drama, I couldn't sleep because my mind refused to calm down. I wrote an entire essay -mentally- about this drama. I'll try to calm down before ranting. But all I am going to say for now is...



SPOILERS



SPOILERS



SPOILERS


Up till the first 35minutes or so of ep06 it was so good... funny and a bit angsty. The last 3 minutes of ep06 and almost all ep07 was SO FRUSTRATING. I even disliked Haruta :(

I mean, THIS Haruta, and THIS Chief, and maybe Maki. But Movie Haruta was gold, Movie Chief was more funny and Movie Hase was perfect.

My rant: https://sunakoyue.livejournal.com/48906.html

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