I don't see any other reviews up, yet, from people who have read and/or loved the manga. So, if you're a fan of the manga, like me, you might find this particular review helpful. I'm writing it for you.

And I'm going to be honest. The manga is better.

That being said, this live adaptation is still ultimately worth checking out, especially since it doesn't require a huge investment of time and emotional energy.

Story: The drama begins by following the story of the manga pretty closely, and the first few episodes are thoroughly enjoyable. As the episodes go on, though, don't be surprised when things start to deviate from the original story. I'm usually pretty forgiving of book-to-movie, or in this case manga-to-drama, alterations, since you just can't fit everything, but unfortunately, I found things to fall a little flat here. I won't give away why.

The drama is directed in a very manga-esque style, which maintains the light-hearted, zaniness of the original. Though the appearance of some of the characters has changed (like Ito), Shiraishi looks like she stepped right off the page. Some of the characters' personalities and background stories are changed, too, and though they're not as fleshed-out as in the manga, the changes fit the adaptation (though I personally think Noa's character suffered a lot -- this is my biggest complaint).

Acting/Cast: My biggest round of applause for the whole show goes to Nishiuchi Mariya as Shiraishi, but more importantly as Yamada. As Shiraishi, her character was the most faithful to the manga. As Yamada, she was simply brilliant. She and Yamamoto Yusuke (Yamada) worked together excellently to mimic each other's movements and personalities during the body swap sequences. I enjoyed Yamamoto's performance as Yamada, but I admit I felt refreshed to go back to the real Yamada when catching up on the newest manga releases. I'll also give shout-outs to Ide Takuya (Miyamura), Triendl Reina (Ito) and Yukie Kawamura (Saionji) for brightening the show up with their talents. The rest of the cast was good, just not AS good.

Music: The music fit the liveliness of the show very well and was fairly catchy (I think I had it stuck in my head on an occasion or two), but I wouldn't buy the soundtrack.

Rewatch value: If I were one to rewatch dramas, I might rewatch this one. Keep it on hand for a good pick-me-up on a gloomy day, especially since, as I mentioned earlier, it doesn't take that long to watch.

Overall: I'm going to agree with a lot of the other reviews and say that this is definitely worth checking out as a quick, light-hearted comedy/romance with a lot of silliness, kissing and fantasy. Don't expect to relive the wonder that is the manga, and don't expect to find your new favorite drama, and I think it could be rather enjoyable for you. Not overwhelmingly satisfying, not heart-warmingly emotional, not the manga, but a romp worth taking.

Leggi di Più