Serious about the most unserious things in life = Just cringy
If you want to start a J-drama where the two leads make your heart flutter and excited about them getting together, well, this isn't that drama, Although it could have been.This drama started off good but after ep 3 it was clear this was gonna be another j drama where the same thing happens every episode, with no progress. But honestly, that doesn't even bother me, what bothered me the most was how overdramatic this drama was with no good reason at all. It was trying to be serious so hard, making this such a hard and often cringy watch. I think I'm in the minority but I much prefer unrealistic cliche dramas to ones like this that are supposed to be a romcom but leave you bored and confused as to why a character is so upset over something so... unserious. Like it wanted to be angsty but without developing any reason for the viewer to understand why a character is acting a certain way. also, the two leads have 0 chemistry together, The love triangle was not believable at all cause I honestly did not understand why either of them liked her to that "deep" level. They literally did not develop any story as to why they fell for her, the writers really thought her being the FL was enough for the viewers to just accept it. Like there are tons of charismatic women at the workplace who also work hard so it made no sense to me why the CEO especially liked her. There is NO reason given at all by the character.... Once again, a really fake deep drama about "finding yourself" but no real discussions or plot points happening that give any insights on the theme at all. J-Romcoms, DO BETTER, please.
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Buckle up and get ready for a binge-worthy adventure!
"Animals" is a delightful J-drama that transcends the typical romantic comedy genre. In this eight-episode series, we follow the story of Shikamori Umi, a relatable character played by Suzuki Airi, who finds herself trapped in a toxic work culture as an overworked assistant director on a popular TV talk show.The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Umi is offered a new job at Animal Beauty, a startup in the beauty industry. The contrast between Umi's chaotic past and the refreshing work culture at Animal Beauty becomes a central theme, highlighting the societal shift needed for a healthier work-life balance.
The drama explores Umi's personal growth, with a focus on her relationships, especially the one with Kazao, a photographer. The love triangle aspect is subtlety handled, emphasizing Umi's journey of self-discovery rather than conventional romantic entanglements.
Kawamitsu Sawako's writing skillfully avoids unnecessary drama, and the dialogue feels authentic, making the characters relatable and the storyline engaging. Despite its title potentially leading to misconceptions, "Animals" surprises with its gentle and heartwarming nature, offering life lessons without being overly didactic.
In conclusion, "Animals" is a feel-good series that goes beyond the surface, exploring themes of personal growth, workplace dynamics, and romance. With its well-crafted storyline, strong cast, and unexpected twists, it's a delightful watch that leaves a lasting impression. So, if you're in the mood for a heartwarming journey of self-discovery, "Animals" is the perfect companion.
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P.S. I didn’t know where to put this but there are quite a few long takes in the show, oftentimes in Umi’s interactions with others, and they’re all really good. It really helps make the conversations seem like they’re real. Argh, I really want to like this show because it has stuff like this that is so good!! :’(
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First, it shows the typical Japanese work culture where everyone is worked to the bone and doing overtime is common and even expected. Shikamori Umi is no stranger to this and continues to run around until she reaches a limit.
Second, the drama demonstrates that change is possible when Umi gets recruited as an intern at an agency, where a very different and refreshing work culture has been established.
Suzuki Airi is a natural, transitioning from a bare-faced, exhausted employee to a spritely, newly motivated worker who wants to try her best at everything, even over-extending herself sometimes. But she realizes that just fell back into the habit of over-pleasing others.
Her coworkers, her new boss and especially Kazao, and even Hina manifest ideas that shape Umi’s worldview, in that working hard is commendable, but also is taking time for yourself. The cast was supportive of Umi’s endeavors and she finally learns to be independent.
This drama was delightful and gratifying. Also neat was the trivial fact that three of the male actors in this show were in other BL dramas that I’ve watched. I did not even recognize Izuka Kenta in that whatchamacallit hairstyle.
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Its a Japanese drama on par with kdramas.
Although it was a rushed drama, and message at end not so easily understood by all, its only very few of Japanese drama I was hooked to till end, cinematography was lot better and there were no glitches of absurd non sense plot holes in drama. A nice piece of fiction I would say. If show was little longer with more of their characters explored. I would have rated it 10.Questa recensione ti è stata utile?
Low angst enjoyment
I liked this show for multiple reasons:FL wasn't stupid, lazy or clumsy
ML was likeable
No evil parents
No evil SFL trying to break the couple up constantly
No triangle - never came to fruition
Happy, though unsatisfying ending
I pretty much loved all the characters in this show. Her work environment when she goes to work at Animal Beauty was, I think, the kind of work environment we would all wish for, collaborative, friendly co-workers, a great boss, and they discourage too much overtime (what a concept!). The friendships that were developed between the coworkers, as well as the FL's sister was so fun to watch.
I love a ML falling first. He could have been more assertive, sure, but the combination of fear, denial and the possibility of losing her friendship all factored into his decisions. When he first saw her all dressed up, I swear the look he gave her could have melted ice!
The relationship between the ML and FL is just a joy to watch. They are supportive of each other, yet often bicker like children. I sometimes got the feeling that I was witnessing feelings that they knew nothing about, but their comradery was the healthy way that relationships should develop. I could actually see why they liked one another.
I was disappointed in the ending, just because it was so abrupt. I would have also liked some closure as to how long he was going to be gone, but at least the ending was happy...with Japanese shows you never can tell.
I am so happy I wasted an entire day and watched this show.
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