Short dramas - Miniseries
Short dramas - Miniseries with episode duration of 30 min max (in highest rating order).
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1. The Boy Next Door
Korean Drama - 2017, 15 episodes
One of the best web-series I've seen! So funny, lighthearted, cute!
Excellent characters, top-notch acting, elegant and sensitive parody approach to all rom-com and bl cliches.
The only bad thing: it's too short :( -
2. Go Ho's Starry Night
Korean Drama - 2016, 20 episodes
Short but to the point, with the right amount of cuteness, fluffiness and fun!
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3. Koi Senu Futari
Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RL2dBhP
Delicate, beautifully affectionate story of a young woman's journey to self-awareness of her aromantic and asexual identity, and an honest, realistic representation of aroace people.
Heartwarming and thought-provoking, with detailed attention to many issues it addresses and impeccable performances from Kishii Yukino and Takahashi Issei.
That talented man never disappoints... -
4. Nishi Ogikubo Mitsuboshi Yoshudou
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
Cozy, feel-good story and setting, with a wonderful Machida Keita! Too bad it was too short...
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/ebQdjiy -
5. Smoking
Japanese Drama - 2018, 12 episodes
A hidden gem: gripping, unique, original, kickass, grey and very engaging.
For mature, not for the faint of heart audience -as it has many violent, raw and disturbing scenes-, with great story, acting, visuals, music.
For the ones who liked "Bad Guys" this is highly recommended! -
6. Zenkasha
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/xOBVAHl
Painfully beautiful, heart-breaking, thought-provoking.
Superb acting, especially from Arimura Kasumi and Ishibashi Shizuka, whose bonding and support for each other was a delightful highlight.
Highly recommended. -
7. Hoshi Shinichi no Fushigina Fushigina Tanpen Dorama
Japanese Drama - 2022, 20 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EWeyJh3
Brilliant adaptations of Hoshi Shinichi's short stories with a witty, inventive, thought-provoking (and at times borderline sneering) approach, full of allegories and impactful messages, caustically tackling some timely social issues.
Great cinematography and music, many familiar talented faces among the cast. -
8. Beyond the Memory
Korean Drama - 2022, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/4KkJ6kha
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dDELvTB
A biting social commentary wrapped in sci-fi/futuristic/mystery layers done right.
Philosophically challenging and thought-provoking concept questioning our views and beliefs about loneliness, grief, memories, dream and reality, life after death, heaven, happiness.
Top-notch production quality, wonderful cinematography and music, and a superb performance from chameleon Shin Ha Kyun in a captivating, binge-worthy outcome. Highly recommended! -
9. One Night Morning
Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/X7p5YI8
Eight couples spending a night and a morning together sharing food, feelings and solace.
Fleeting moments, fleeting encounters, fleeting feelings, fleeting glimpses of their souls.
Beautifully written and acted stories, aesthetically palpable production, music, colouring and editing, brilliant metaphors and symbolisms.
Highly recommended. -
10. The King of the Desert
Korean Drama - 2022, 6 episodes
Six short stories interconnected in an ingenious and thought-provoking way, full of metaphors, profound dilemmas, impactful messages and discerning social commentaries.
Highly recommended.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/qLWROFp -
11. Park Ha Kyung Travel Diary
Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
A short drama about daily trips and encounters, with delicious food, magnificent scenery beautifully shot, relaxing music, interesting conversations and quirky inner thoughts.
Lee Na Young was so natural performing this charming and relatable character that fitted her like glove.
A feel-good, soothing, emotional and healing experience and a breath of fresh air among the usual complex, angsty and demanding kdramas.
Highly recommended!
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/BY4PWIE -
12. All-Boys High
Korean Drama - 2019, 10 episodes
Hilarious, addicting and very entertaining!
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13. Enjiya
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/kmbN7CJ
Quirky, with a refreshingly unique approach, it got my complete attention after only a few minutes.
Those six fast-paced, short and compact plotted episodes weren't enough... -
14. EXO Next Door
Korean Drama - 2015, 16 episodes
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15. Kieta Hatsukoi
Japanese Drama - 2021, 10 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2P70eCA
Cute, fluffy, heartwarming, funny and very refreshing!
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16. Kono Koi wa Tsumi na no ka!?
Japanese Drama - 2018, 4 episodes
Heartwarming and cute! Both leads so adorable!
I wish there were more episodes... -
17. Mr. Nietzsche in the Convenience Store
Japanese Drama - 2016, 10 episodes
Quirky, zany and totally unpredictable!
Mamiya Shotaro and, especially, Sato Jiro were simply hilarious from beginning to end!
Even the actors couldn't hold back their laughter xD -
18. Mei Kenchiku de Chushoku o
Japanese Drama - 2020, 10 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/LOmwokt9
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dBxknhBWith many beautiful buildings, designs and dishes, detailed and compelling narration, and some very thoughtful quotes, this little gem was a breath of fresh air in between some more complex and demanding dramas. Time well-spent :)
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19. Meikenchiku de Chushoku wo Osaka-hen
Japanese Drama - 2022, 6 episodes
Like its prequel, this was a feel-good, soothing watch, with interesting buildings and detailed information about their history, architecture and design, as well as some well-fitted dishes.
Refreshing concept, thoughtful delivery.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RVOykTP -
20. Noble, My Love
Korean Drama - 2015, 20 episodes
The first title of Sung Hoon that I've ever watched and, though cheesy and predictable, very entertaining :)
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21. Satsui no Dotei
Japanese Drama - 2020, 7 episodes
A subtle, quirky black comedy with a very well-matched and perfectly casted duo.
Their dialogues, bickering and inner thoughts were delightful! -
22. Twenty Years Old
Korean Drama - 2014, 4 episodes
Short but well-paced (except the last rushed episode), with a cute young romance.
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23. What's Your Blood Type?
Korean Drama - 2016, 7 episodes
Hilarious, silly, cute! I wish it wasn't too short...
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24. No Young Man Park
Chinese Drama - 2021, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/Zedlgtx
A bit weird, a bit dark, but definitely a unique, quirky concept and a refreshing, funky direction and editing.
Time well spent :) -
25. Muko no Hate
Japanese Drama - 2021, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/45Bla8CZ
A fragmented story of a broken woman.
Dark, raw, depressing, yet compelling, with a riveting performance from Matsumoto Marika.
Definitely not for everyone... -
26. Double
Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes
An intense, masterfully crafted psychological, character-driven story.
Heavy on the dialogues, with a nuanced depiction of the leads' complex relationship, and superb performances from Chiba Yudai and Nagayama Kento. -
27. Shijukara
Japanese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QRgROc8
Not your typical Infidelity or Older Woman/Younger Man romance, but a dark, emotionally charged story about two wounded, abused and lonely people trying to get away from their toxic environment and become happy.
Kudos to Itagaki Rihito for his solid performance in spite of his young age! -
28. More than Words
Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/e4QYACy
A sad, emotional and introspective story revolving around a compelling love triangle (platonic and sexual) among three friends on their journey from childhood to adulthood.
Smooth and subtle directing, nuanced but powerful performances from the cast in this unique slice of life, coming of age and social commentary on LGBT and aroace people, masterfully blended in between the blurry lines of friendship, romance, deep bonding and family. -
29. Jitenshaya-san no Takahashi-kun
Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/6JJVQIl
A down-to-earth, tender and un-cringy romance story, with an adorable couple that has admirable communication and character development.
A short wholesome jdrama that tackles some serious matters in an honest, realistic way without any unnecessary fillers, complications or angst - and the cutest ML. -
30. Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure
Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes
Absurd, zany and totally addicting!
Lighthearted and deep, cynical and optimistic, dark and funny.
An adorable eggsistential quest, an eggseptional adventure, an eggsemplary friendship.
Walking on eggshells has never been so fun!
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dXKvZiB -
31. Ore no Kawaii wa Mosugu Shohi Kigen!?
Japanese Drama - 2022, 9 episodes
An old-fashioned, simple but very cute office romance with two adorably awkward leads in an angst-free character development/love story.
Yamada Ryosuke's smile was a ray of sunshine, addicting and uplifting, perfect for a stress-free watch after a long & tiring working day.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2Ke88SA -
32. Nagatan to Aoto: Ichika no Ryourijou
Japanese Drama - 2023, 10 episodes
A smooth, cozy, heartwarming story with great character development, cute slow-burn romance and delicious food.
I could watch Ichika cook like she did during the ending scenes of each episode for hours!
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1XxMDJuk -
33. Bokura no Shokutaku
Japanese Drama - 2023, 10 episodes
A delicate, gentle love story full of cuteness, warmth and caring, with lots of comfort food, precious healing moments and the best supportive family: Tane, that little cutie pie, and his dad, the coolest and most discreet cupid.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/vL7K5Cx -
34. Tsukuritai Onna to Tabetai Onna Season 2
Japanese Drama - 2024, 20 episodes
Happiness is sharing delicious food with the ones you love!
Soothing and comforting, with a delicate as well as considerate approach to some serious, deep and complicated matters, and a wonderful (even if a bit beautified) depiction of a slow-burn romance and sismance.
Nishino Emi did a fantastic job depicting the fascinating character of Kasuga, with her reserved persona, her pragmatic thoughts and actions, her warm and compassionate feelings, and her sad backstory.
A heartwarming and rewarding watch.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eX34jFy -
35. Aftermath
Korean Drama - 2014, 5 episodes
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36. 6 Persons Room
Korean Special - 2014, 5 episodes
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37. Aftermath Season 2
Korean Drama - 2014, 6 episodes
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38. Aruku Hito
Japanese Drama - 2020, 12 episodes
A little gem, a breath of fresh air in between some more complex, angsty and demanding dramas.
A feel-good, soothing experience, depicting the magnificent scenery and natural wonders of rural Japan.
Time well-spent :) -
39. Drunk in Good Taste
Korean Special - 2018, 10 episodes
Cute college romance with adorable leads!
Many -but not unbearable- clichés, not that unique of a story, but leaves a fluffy, sweet taste! -
40. Haruka no Hikari
Japanese Drama - 2021, 5 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/3DNDzKFx
With many beautiful lighting fixtures and lamps, detailed and compelling narration about their designs, and some heartfelt, healing quotes, this drama and its unique concept was a breath of fresh air.
Time well-spent :) -
41. High-end Crush
Korean Drama - 2015, 20 episodes
Funny, cute, light and fluffy, with a nice romance and bromance :)
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42. A Bear's Little Thing
Japanese Drama - 2020, 10 episodes
Cuteness overload, highly recommended for everyone!
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43. Higuma 2
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/rZ5BQh5
That precious little bear is a ray of sunshine worth protecting at all costs!
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44. Kawanohotoride
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/e57p3cy
"Life is mostly a matter of chance" says one of this short drama's protagonists and this probably fits for most of the characters' backstories.
Unusual, unique and out-of-the-box, in an intriguing way only j-dramas can be! -
45. Kitchen For Singles
Japanese Drama - 2019, 12 episodes
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEqLkMA6K-8d36AJdYXGjv2d6JDWdVrPj
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEqLkMA6K-8dXc8cT4rXx2tQ6sM7I1C9XFeel-good and cosy, with a heartwarming nostalgic tone, perfect for a weekend watch!
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46. Vita~Amore in Riga
Japanese Drama - 2020, 4 episodes
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47. Neko
Japanese Drama - 2020, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/R4P1AIP
A simple, yet cute and heartwarming love story.
Bittersweet, equally sad and optimistic in a unique way only j-dramas can accomplish :) -
48. One Sunny Day
Korean Drama - 2014, 10 episodes
Not gonna lie, watched this for So Ji Sub ^^
But Jeju island's beautiful scenery was a welcomed plus! -
49. Pension Metsa
Japanese Drama - 2021, 7 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/xyrd2Cl
Soothing and somehow comforting, with its picturesque, fairylike forest scenery, this mini drama is a perfect break from all the angsty drama-world and real life's dramas :) -
50. People You May Know
Korean Drama - 2017, 10 episodes
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51. Queen of the Ring
Korean Drama - 2017, 21 episodes
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52. Shanai Marijjihani
Japanese Drama - 2020, 7 episodes
Cute, fluffy, with sizzling chemistry.
Though the story is quite unrealistic and simple, its happy, optimistic tone and the bright smiles of both leads made this a very pleasant watch! -
53. Somehow 18
Korean Drama - 2017, 10 episodes
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54. Engine on From Today
Korean Special - 2021, 4 episodes
Cute and funny, with an adorable Kim Min Seok :)
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55. The Aobas' Dining Table
Japanese Drama - 2018, 4 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/6PqRkhl
A nice watch, with the same comforting, reassuring vibe as the movie :) -
56. Shaman Girl Ga Doo Shim
Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes
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57. Star of the Universe
Korean Drama - 2017, 21 episodes
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58. Utsukushii Kare
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/WXZ3YI3
I must admit that this drama reminded me a lot the time I was watching the dysfunctional relationship in Hana Yori Dango: furious about so many things about it, but couldn't stop watching it till the end ^^
What I found really intriguing was the clever addition of the main leads' inner voices/thoughts - they couldn't justify their problematic behavior, but at least they gave us a better insight into their actions and feelings.
Overall, an interesting depiction of a romance between two people with many flaws, in a non-fluffy way :) -
59. Watashi no Otto wa Reitoko ni Nemutte iru
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/rlrE5i5
A dark, gripping, eccentric and very unexpected story.
Wicked and creepy, so intense that it was very engaging, but definitely not for everyone. -
60. Thumping Spike
Korean Drama - 2016, 20 episodes
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61. Thumping Spike 2
Korean Drama - 2016, 20 episodes
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62. Todome no Parallel
Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes
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63. Vivid Romance
Korean Drama - 2017, 21 episodes
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64. Vroom Vroom Pegasus Market
Korean Special - 2019, 4 episodes
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65. We Are Peaceful Brothers
Korean Drama - 2017, 15 episodes
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66. Wednesday 3:30 PM
Korean Drama - 2017, 15 episodes
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67. XX
Korean Drama - 2020, 10 episodes
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68. Utsukushii Kare Season 2
Japanese Drama - 2023, 4 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/xqNERFl
Surprisingly, this was much better than its prequel, which is something rare.
Still a dysfunctional and miscommunicating relationship, but cute and addicting nonetheless.
Once again, the clever addition of the main leads' inner voices/thoughts was the best part of the story and helped us get a better insight into their actions and feelings. -
69. Sixteen Shoukougun
Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/LQk8kEUM
Unique and complex, more mature than most of the recent school dramas, with many different story angles and tropes that, unexpectedly, worked well together, even though the character development and the wrap-up felt rushed and too convenient.
Overall, pleasantly surprised by this fast paced and binge worthy short drama. -
70. Suiyobi 22-ji dake no kare
Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes
Fluffy, cute and very short!
https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKawxU11I7gJzxiyXqBjzlyjNsbrpzzSg&gl=JP -
71. Ao to Boku
Japanese Drama - 2018, 6 episodes
Tense, suspenseful, reserved but emotional, a bit confusing though due to the overuse of past and present swaps.
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72. Youkai Sharehouse 2
Japanese Drama - 2022, 9 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/p60bPCP
Unfortunately not as good as its prequel...
That uniquely bizarre, zany feeling and the character development were barely present in this one.
But, the actors' improvisations, synergy and bonding were clearly visible and praiseworthy! -
73. Iburi Kurashi
Japanese Drama - 2022, 13 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wRrxDiE
A heart-warming, feel-good food drama, spiced with small boosts of slice-of-life, romance and character development.
Happiness from preparing and sharing a tasty snack, a family Sunday meal or a picnic. Bonding through sharing the same dreams and all the trivial, little things in life.
Time well-spent :) -
74. Room Laundering
Japanese Drama - 2018, 4 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wBVZyFE
Perhaps I'd like it much more if I had watched the movie first, but even so it was surprisingly good.
After all, Ikeda Elaiza, Odagiri Joe and Ito Kentaro are always a pleasure to watch.
Too short though... I wouldn't say no to more episodes/ghost stories, as well as Miko and Akito's romance! -
75. Subete Wasureteshimau Kara
Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EwpNjH3
Slow-paced, character driven and heavy on dialogues, narration and internal monologues, this is a uniquely bizarre drama, not always easy to follow.
Abe Hiroshi and Ono Machiko, the M(ale) and F(emale) characters of this story did a splendid job. -
76. 187 cm Male Friend vs 155 cm Female Friend
Korean Drama - 2020, 3 episodes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4cMYPT02NQ
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RlQ0OCP
The height difference is so cute, their bantering so funny. The story isn't something much, but they look so adorable together! -
77. Life After One Minute
Korean Drama - 2022, 4 episodes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcqlLjCJPd8
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RlQbQiP
A bit confusing at first, but unique and very touching in the end. -
78. Mangaban Nobushi no Gurume
Japanese Drama - 2017, 12 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/ZxENgIx
Warm, nostalgic, delicious.
Comfort food, rewarding food, food linked to childhood memories, food for soul.
Takenaka Naoto, with his timid yet honest and relatable monologues, his unique way of enjoying food and his inner samurai spirit was a real pleasure to watch!
Time well spent. -
79. Tsukuritai Onna to Tabetai Onna
Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/BVpoDCE
Soothing and comforting, with an intriguing blooming relationship.
I'd love to see more about Kasuga, her thoughts and feelings, her backstory and daily life. -
80. Old Fashion Cupcake
Japanese Drama - 2022, 5 episodes
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/WVNN8i3
Short, fast-paced, heart-flutering and very cute.
Pleasantly surprised! -
81. Kentaro Hiyama no Ninshin
Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
"Unexpected things happen in life. The way you approach those situations is what makes you who you are."
Bold, daring and thought-provoking, this is a social commentary on parenthood, pregnancy difficulties and gender stereotyping.
Surprisingly open-minded and heartwarming!
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QWEOOc8 -
82. Socho Shihatsu no Sappukei
Japanese Drama - 2022, 6 episodes
Youthful, cute and fulfilling, this is an omnibus of high school slice of life stories of romance, awkward misunderstandings and bittersweet everyday school life, mixed with some mystery and bonding.
An easy, enjoyable watch, perfect for a weekend binge.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dLgxniB -
83. Tetsu Ota Michiko, 2 Man Kiro
Japanese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
With a unique theme and approach, this is a soothing, feel-good short drama about daily train trips of an otaku train enthusiast enjoying beautiful rural scenery and wonderful photography.
Though it's slow-paced, with minimal dialogue and encounters, not much of a plot, not much character depth and an awkward introduction theme, every episode feels like a healing experience full of picturesque countryside places around secluded or abandoned train stations, with vivid forest, sea and train sounds, delicious food, and interesting information about new and old train models, routes and destinations.
Great for a relaxing weekend watch.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eLdxJIy
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/Qe3dqf8 -
84. Anata ni Kika Setai Uta ga Arunda
Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
A strangely gripping omnibus miniseries about dreams and regrets.
In each story we watch the six protagonists fighting for, abandoning, discovering, fulfilling or not their dreams, trying to do the best they can with their ordinary lives.
Mundane, melancholic aesthetics with a longing vibe, uniquely creative arthouse cinematography, exemplary editing and impressive music.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/WRo4dT3 -
85. Tsuiraku JK to Haijin Kyoshi
Japanese Drama - 2023, 9 episodes
Teacher-student romance trope is a big NO for me, but after seeing many positive posts about this jdrama, I thought I should give it a try.
It's a bizarre, quirky and surprisingly addicting story, with a unique theme that has more layers than meet the eye. On the surface it may seem like another questionable forbidden relationship between a teacher and a student, but behind the 'dark humour', the creepy, silly or careless attitude, the hilarious bantering and the smartass flirting it deals with some serious, dark topics and some heartwarming character development.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EOmwBH3 -
86. Karakai Jozu no Takagi-san
Japanese Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Sweet, cute and very bubbly school romance, full of youth, innocence and nostalgia.
With a charming cast, short duration and an adorable first love trope, this was a fluffy and enjoyable watch.
https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1VAdaliZ -
87. 4 Kinds of House
Korean Drama - 2018, 4 episodes
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88. 7 First Kisses
Korean Special - 2016, 8 episodes
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89. Between Friendship and Love
Korean Drama - 2016, 8 episodes
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90. Boarding House #24
Korean Drama - 2014, 12 episodes
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91. After School: Lucky or Not
Korean Drama - 2013, 12 episodes
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92. Ani ni Aisaresugite Komattemasu
Japanese Drama - 2017, 5 episodes
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93. Another Parting
Korean Drama - 2014, 5 episodes
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94. Banana Actually
Korean Drama - 2015, 8 episodes
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95. Banana Actually 2
Korean Drama - 2016, 12 episodes
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96. Chihayafuru: Tsunagu
Japanese Drama - 2018, 5 episodes
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97. Bong Soon: A Cyborg in Love
Korean Drama - 2016, 12 episodes
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98. Choco Bank
Korean Drama - 2016, 6 episodes
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99. Fare clic sul tuo cuore
Korean Drama - 2016, 7 episodes
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100. Dream Knight
Korean Drama - 2015, 12 episodes