I loved this drama. It's quiet and thoughtful. Each episode can exist on its own. The story is original and the cast did a wonderful job. Although there isn't much music, the music they use is very good. The opening theme song is amazing. I immediately googled it and will buy it as soon as I can find someplace to get it.
I recommend this drama to anyone who is looking for something different. There isn't anything supernatural, there aren't any ikemen or suspense, but it draws you into the hearts and minds of the characters. It perfectly communicates the loneliness that can sometimes find you when you live in a big city.
If only I could find a Midnight Cafe here....hehe.

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This is an amazing film. I can't even put into words how thoughtfully and carefully the casting, acting, direction, and cinematography were executed. This movie is depressing. It is also very quiet and can feel slow to some people. The only reason why I gave this movie a 5 for Music is because there isn't really any. I would have given it a 10 out of 10 for sound production because each noise contributes to engulfing you in the children's world.



In a nutshell: Great film for people who like quiet, thoughtful films. Avoid if you like fast paced movies or do not want to cry.

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As much as I loved the first season of Shinya Sokudou (I gave it a 9), Shinya Shokudo 2 may be better. The stories are slightly less predictable, and the acting improved.

You could watch season 2 without watching season 1, but I think season 2 may not be as good if you don't experience the connection that develops through season 1.

It follows the same formula as the first season. The story centers around a cafe/diner that is only open from midnight to until breakfast. Each episode focuses on the experiences of an individual patron and can be watched independently. However, the episodes in season 2 are slightly more connected than season 1 (just barely).

The mood is similar to season 1: melancholy and bittersweet.

Season 2 really feels like it may be the end of this drama, which kinda brought tears to my eyes.

It's quiet and reflective, so you have to be a person who likes that sort of thing and in the right mood to watch it.

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The show's tagline, "Low Budget Action Adventure Story," foretells the hilarity that will assault your senses while enjoying this "drama." :) This series reminds me of the British sitcom "Black Adder" because of its exaggerated characters and army of guest stars. The show doesn't take itself seriously, and viewers shouldn't either.



The plot follows a ragtag team of heroes as they travel through a strange land fighting monsters (many of which are paper mache). This show has a sense of humor I have not seen in a Jdrama before. It's very random and silly on an elevated level. I found it thoroughly entertaining.



Although the characters are far from realistic, they are consistently developed and draw you into their bizarre world. The actors have wonderful comedic timing. While I"m not sure if the jokes in this drama will be as effective upon reviewing, it is definitely the type of show that would be in syndication in the US.



I gave this drama a 10 overall although the rewatch value and music were not rated highly because it is a stellar example of its genre.

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This is one of the most beautiful movies I have ever seen. And I mean visually stunning. Each frame is like a picture. The colors are well balanced and vibrant. Liberties are taken with historical accuracy, in order to present this atmosphere that blends fantasy and realistic history. It features wonderfully performed music that fits its "fantastical history" feel. The story line is melodramatic, but I think that would appeal to us drama addicts :)

Yun-Fat Chow does an amazing job of inviting you in to his character while keeping a cool and aloof distance. Li Gong does well as the Empress, but the rest of the cast is unmemorable.



In a nutshell: Visually appealing if you like bright, ornate visuals, but may be too flashy for some. The story is melodramatic which can sometimes be boring.

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The story was really fun. If you like mishaps and goofy dramas this is for you. The storyline was interesting and drew you through to the last episode. The guys are all cute in their own way.



There really isn't any drama or suspense in the storyline. Everything can be anticipated. The characters are all overacted which may annoy some. There are a few clumsy attempts at character development. But I still enjoyed it for what it is.



I would recommend this drama to people who liked RHPlus (although Atashi no Danshi is not as cheesy.) It's goofy, light hearted, and superficial. Sometimes you're just in the mood for that. At that time, check this out (^_*) v

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Unlike the previous reviewer, I didn't expect anything from this film. I didn't know anything about it. I disclose this because it may have influenced how I experienced the unfolding of the plot.





I enjoyed the story. It's a combination Liar Game (Japanese drama) and 1984 (George Orwell). A secret world unfolds as a people are pitted against one another. I didn't find the the story to be predictable, but there was a slow part in the middle that made me want to fast-forward.





Generally, the main actors all over acted with the exception of Yuki Amami. Lots of screaming, crying, banging of fists, etc. This was the major downfall of the film in my opinion. I debated giving it a 4 or 5. However, I decided on 5 because the overacting did not inhibit my ability to enjoy the film, and I generally think that Japanese actors tend to overact.





The music was nice. It fit the feel of the movie. There were definitely some songs I will look up.





Overall, it's an enjoyable movie, but not a "must see before you die" film. People who liked Liar Game or The Quiz Show will probably like this movie.

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I began watching this show because it was supposedly like "Battle Royale." The only thing these two works have in common is that there are young people involved in a psychological game involving death and killing. It's more along the lines of "Kaiji" or "Insight Mill," but not as good as either of those.



The concept is really interesting. It's complex, energetic, and a little dark. The way in which the story unfolds is where things fall apart. In what appears to be an attempt to jostle the viewer and communicate unsettling suspense, much of the story is cryptic and ambiguous. I am a big fan of restraint in storytelling and am annoyed when things are spelled out too clearly, but this film over-corrected and went too far in the opposite direction. This resulted in the end feeling very rushed. That said, I did enjoy the way in which the film started.



The acting was OK. The actors were all gorgeous. Set design and cinematography were typical for the genre. The music was generic, I wouldn't watch it again, ever.



I finished watching it, but that's the best thing I can say about it, lol. Definitely a solid "4/watchable."

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This is a really adorable drama.



It is not for people who like heavy drama, mystery, suspense, or romance.

It's the type of drama you could watch with your 8 year old cousin.



The town of Asakusa can be considered an additional character in this drama. After watching a few episodes, I researched Asakusa to understand a little bit about its history. The beautiful wagashi they made in the shop act as a Greek chours.



The characters are down to earth, but slightly idealistic and don't evolve much. I grew to sympathize with each of the characters and found myself invested in their lives and community.



This story is about family, personal struggles, depending on others to support you and finding the ability to support yourself. A little bit like the After School Specials we had in the US. I would suggest this drama to someone looking for a light hearted, family centered story.

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