Drama Digest
“38sai Batsuichi Dokushin Onna ga Matching Apuri wo Yattemita Kekka Nikki” also known as “The diary of the 38-year-old divorcee who has tried a Dating App” in English translation, is a Japanese romance drama. It tells the story of Matsumoto Chiaki, a 38-year-old divorcee, just as the name suggests. She was married at 24 and then divorced at 35. Now that she is almost 40, she tries a dating app to relive the days of youth that she lost because of her early marriage.
The Feel-Good Part
Most of the recognition for the show came from the fact that the drama is based on a real story. The show is not of the typical fantasy genre but shows the fantasies of a middle-aged woman who wants to explore dating life. The music in the show brings out all the emotions and gives chills. It covers some important elements, such as sexuality and relationships, from a woman’s point of view. The show has a dark genre similar to the other works of the director. Some twists can shift moods.
The Disappointing Factor
The story does not have an outstanding performance or a suitable ending. Most of the situations seem baseless and lacking. It does not show negativity towards the use of a dating app, nor does it show any positivity. The ending of the show has nothing to offer. There was no scope for romance or dating, as the name suggests, but it is uncomfortable and painful for most viewers.
In-Depth Analysis
Matsumoto Chiaki, a lady in her 40s, is a naïve woman who does not have much experience with men. She tells her friend Rika about her worries and how she wants to relive her young days again. And her friend suggests an online dating app. Chiaki was curious about it and started checking it out. She discovers a set of men, young and attractive, who do not bother about age differences. Since then, she has enjoyed going out on dates. But one morning she sees her clothes scattered around the room and a naked student lying by her.
Star Power
Yamaguchi Sayaka, who played the leading role of Matsumoto Chiaki, delivered a decent performance. It was not outstanding but simply convincing enough about the situation. The rest of the supporting actors also performed gracefully. The cast was well-suited for the show.
Overall Opinion
Overall, it is a decent drama but has a dark background. For viewers who are already aware of similar shows in Japanese Dramas, they would not be surprised by this one, but it is like revisiting a similar place. For the rest of the viewers, this is triggering and may be painful to watch. This is not worth watching unless you are interested in a similar drama genre.
