Hotaru no Hikari (2007)

This drama is a little gem and I feel that even though it's a simple romantic comedy, it deserves more views!

But first, to anyone who hasn't seen this drama yet, I have to say that if you're fond of out-of-the box story arcs, impressive plot twists and memorable confessions, this drama is devoid of any of these things because CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT is the main focus. Thus, the plot is pretty basic, simple and predictable (from the get-go you will see who she'll end up with). There are no bitchy ex-girlfriends/fiancee's. No scary mothers. No amnesia. No birth secrets. No angst. Every single character is loveable and positive. The main girl is a 20-something office lady who goes by the name of Amemiya Hotaru. She's an efficient and responsible employee who works for an interior design company. She's very good at what she does and enjoys a great relationship with her co-workers. On the outside, Hotaru exemplifies a well-mannered, classy intelligent young woman. However, she harbors a "dirty" little secret: at home, she's a TOTAL SLOB who loves to laze around in tattered jerseys and a stained t-shirt with a can of beer in hand. She loves reading manga, doesn't cook, sleeps on her porch with stacks of newspapers for a blanket and talks to stray cats in her backyard. She hates socializing and is so not interested in dating. She's perfectly fine with her lifestyle until her manager, a 40-something soon-to-be divorcee neat freak, moves in with her.

THE GOOD:
CHARACTERS
Every character endeared itself to me. I don't think I've ever hated anybody. No one had managed to raise my blood pressure. I don't even think there was a villain in the story.

Amemiya Hotaru is the type of female lead that every ordinary girl can relate to. It's not because she is dirt poor and average-looking. In fact, she's pretty, smart, optimistic, and more than capable of whatever task she's given. But the childish side to her character as well as her quirks made her loveable. Although her disorganized and klutzy personality was exaggerated (to elicit laughs and provide comic relief, I'm sure), I found myself thinking "that is SO me" most of the time, whether it was about her being too lazy to clean her room, or being insecure in her interactions with the guy she really liked.

Unlike other dramas, most conflicts were cause by misunderstandings and a lack of communication. Yes, there were a LOT of unrequited side romances but the "love rivals" were understanding and considerate. I loved the interactions and relationships in the office as well. They all seemed like one big family who had concern for each other even with regards to matters that were more love-related than work-related. LOL, It made me think. The world would be so much better if things were like that, empty of crab mentality, envy and pettiness. Wouldn't it be wonderful? The characters suffered from lovesick problems from time to time, but they always seemed to be willing to help each other out and give advice to the ones who were problematic.

ROMANCE
There are actually two love stories in this drama:

The first was between Hotaru and Teshima. I honestly preferred Teshima throughout the drama because IMO, their romance was sweet and innocent. Kind of like that puppy love you experience for the first time in high school, you know? Butterflies in the stomach and racing heartbeats. I really liked the fact that he accepted her for who she is, weird habits and all. It was funny watching him and Hotaru being SO clueless as to how to express their feelings properly. In that aspect, they were very much alike. He was patient and sweet albeit a little dull in terms of personality (which gave a negative effect on the acting, unfortunately). However, I blame this on the writing. If only the character had been written with more depth, I would've found him to be a lot more interesting.

The second love story was between Hotaru and her boss, the main guy who, strangely enough, had the classic Second Male Lead Syndrome, Takano. Unlike her love story with Teshima which started with a kiss, theirs was a "slow burning" one. It started on the wrong foot as there was NO attraction on first sight. IMO, it was the best because both of them got to know each other's WORST traits first before they appreciated each other's positive areas. I admit though. At first though, I preferred Teshima over the boss because the latter treated her in a way that was typical of a father or an older brother. He constantly berated her for her untidiness, cooked for her, gave her love advice and basically became this all around go-to guy. They seemed more like best friends who often bickered over the tiniest things than potential lovers. Yet as the story progressed, I understood why they were so perfect for each other despite being TOTAL opposites. They helped each other grow and develop their weak areas. Takano helped her develop a little bit of finesse and taught her (begrudgingly) how to become, er, less of a slob, encouraged her whenever she was plagued with insecurities and guided her as she navigated her way to womanhood. Hotaru, on the other hand, taught him how to be more self-giving and considerate. Before they lived together, Takano was a workaholic and didn't know how to treasure personal relationships. When she came into his life, he learned to consider another person's well-being other than his own without being aware of it. They were also very comfortable around each other. Hotaru didn't need to force herself to change nor did she become too self-conscious when she was around him. It was the kind of relationship that is much needed in a long-term companionship like marriage. The steady kind of love that makes you feel secure and content, contrary to the blazing fire of passion often mistaken as "love" in a lot of romantic stories.

THE BAD:
I don't think there's anything negative to comment except the stiff acting and underdeveloped character of Teshima. He was the sole weak link. Maybe a veteran actor would've been better? Also, I thought it was weird that there was no sexual tension between Hotaru and Takano considering that they were still woman and man living under the same roof. I guess the writer of the manga preferred not to give it some focus in favor of the personal connection between the two. Dramas will always be dramas; you can never expect them to be a 100% reflection of reality, not even biographies.

FINAL VERDICT:
A "highly recommended" rom-com. The main reason why I love this drama is because I can relate to it so much! I developed this connection with the characters, especially the main girl Hotaru because in many ways I could see myself in her. Her journey back to love after years of being independent and single, her insecurities with her relationship, her heartbreak and growth from being a "dried up fish" for many years to womanhood, not to mention the wonderful humor and acting that made this little J-drama such a gem! I can't remember how many times I burst out laughing because of her and Takano's squabbles and antics. I loved the slow romantic development between the OTP. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves romantic comedies or just any person looking for a very light and funny drama that's full of heart.

I'm looking forward to watching the second season next.

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I finally understand the buzz about Hotaru no Hikari! It's refreshing, entertaining, and an enjoyable watch with a fantastic and lovable cast. I wish the writer had worked on Makoto's character more; he's stiff and was only there to advance the storyline. The show recovers by having the amazing Ayase and Naohito playing the leads, so I was content! Also, that ending wasn't too pleasant it was left too open, leaving the viewers to question what happens next. But, that's why we got season two! The show was able to engross me in its story, even if the plot is simple, but it grasps me with its characters and humor.

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This drama was so enjoyable, fun and effortless to watch. There aren't any big conflicts or enemies, plot twists or action. But there is such a wonderful journey of growth for both leads. The symbiotic relationship they quickly develop seems so organic and believable. The acting was great. It really felt as though I was watching two real people through a window while they were not aware of being watched. They seemed that natural, that real. The humor was great because it was subtle. I really liked the female character. She seemed different than what I'm used to from other dramas. She was a slob and emotionally challenged in the area of love; but otherwise she was a smart,sweet, hard working woman aware of her mind (at least professionally). I'm really tired of all those women portrayed in dramas that seemed to be airheads, with no education or personal taste. That can only offer emotional support but otherwise need to be saved every five minutes.

The only downside I found was the second lead. He seemed very one dimensional. Even his facial expressions did not change much. Other than that, it was a wonderful watch. Highly recommend.

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Very rarely it is when you come across dramas like 'Hotaru no Hikari'. It's fresh, entertaining and full of life. It will never fail to make you laugh and also touch you at the same time. It was a truly heartwarming drama.

It has a very unique and original story. The 'himomo-onna' concept was hilarious and witty on the writer's part. Also, this show proves that a drama can do fine without cliches like crazy ex-girlfriends, psychotic family members or someone getting amnesia. It has a very different female character and male character as its leads.

Hotaru is a lazy, young woman who is ignorant of the world outside her house and office and oblivious to matters of love. She has never been in love nor ever thought about changing her way of living. But, in spite of being naive and behaving immaturely at times she has a mind of her own. When she is told that she is being bothersome, she snaps back and when she wishes to change herself- she does. I like that she did everything according to how she pleased even if she always didn't succeed in her goals. And though Hotaru's character is imperfect, Ayase Haruka played her part perfectly. She can look good, act very well and can tickle your funny bone too. I was surprised at how good she was with the comedy parts. I was tearing up with laughter during most of those scenes.

I have to mention the Manager. He is a nice and mature guy. He is the opposite of almost all regular heroes in dramas. In spite of the age difference between him and Hotaru, they managed to look cute and have chemistry together. My heart broke for him all the way till the end. He touched me and now I want a mature guy like him. I love the contrast in his and Hotaru's personalities. Not just that, he always supports her during all her times and accepts her just for who she is. This drama will keep you wondering whether he is the main lead or the second lead.

I also liked Teshima's character in the beginning but he became redundant towards the end. But he was crucial in order for Hotaru to grow up. He earned my respect. Actually, even he was pretty nice to her mostly but there's a time where it becomes apparent who was better among him and the Manager.

I loved how this show had no melodramatic moments. The best part definitely was the absence of interfering family members and bad villains. Nobody is the bad guy in this drama- maybe Hotaru herself is! This drama's romantic aspects were so different that it almost seemed like it was poking fun at all other dramas I have watched in a nonchalant way.

This is definitely one of the best and deep-without-seeming-deep dramas I have seen till date. You'll know what I mean after you watch this. ;)

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Overall this was good. It took awhile to really enjoy it. The interaction between the leads was interesting. But what made this different was they must have had intentions to make a second season from the beginning. When you watch it, you'll understand. But here is what I learned...I am a himono-onna. Except for the extreme junkiness that is Amemiya, I don't think I've ever encountered a character like her before. She was fascinating to say the least. Takono was Takono from beginning to end. You start to see his interest in her a lot faster than you will see hers. It's also funny who actually points out that interest. Even though I watched this from beginning to end, I think unless you are a fan of Fujiki Naohito or Ayase Haruka, true fans of both will really enjoy it!

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Story- Liked that it is real life based. Veryy funny storyline with the sloppy working girl and professional boss living together. Its nice to see thier friendship grow. Their\''s romance in there but not who you think. The end leaves an opening for season 2.

Acting- Hotaru is a character that is well rounded. Shes laid back and silly but knows when to get it together. Sometimes its hard to like her character cause she seems to naive at times. The actress did a great job portraying her different qualities. Seiichi is manly but has a shy exterior. Its hard to show his feelings.Thats why he gets no romance in this sseason. I really liked the supporting cast!

Music- I don\''t really remember the music so id rate it average.

Overall- A nice romance drama that will teach you about hard work and how to balance that with having fun.

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The first time I watched this drama, I couldn't get through it. I didn't understand why people liked it so much. I found the main character, Amemiya (or Ahomiya) to be extremely annoying and whiny. (Her voice "~BUCHOUUUUUUU~" drove me crazy.) But for whatever reason, I decided to give it another shot.

I'm glad I did.

While I wasn't terribly impressed with Teshima's acting or character (I thought he was pretty but dull), I really loved the chemistry between Amemiya and "Buchou." The plot was somewhat slow but there was a lot of emotion building under the surface in ways that were both subtle and thoughtful. For such a playful drama, I was surprised at how invested I got in the characters.

Overall, it was a good show. Not the best I've ever seen - and certainly a little bit annoying - but definitely worth watching.

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It's a nice drama and I've even watched it in short time. I didn't suppose that the main theme are TRACKSUITS! hmmm.. for a half ftory at least. I think that there are many himono-onnas around us.

The main character is sweet and cute and actualy, I like the girl, except for her some acts. I forgive it, because she forgot what the date was... ^^

Hotaru and Makoto haven't been a good couple since the beginning. They weren't natural, so I was really surprised that they wanted to live together.

The boss is great man too. Why his wife left him? Handsome, hard-working, with sense of humor... What did she want...?

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