Drama Digest
Kawai Maria is a blunt, domineer girl with a devil-like attitude who transferred to Totsuka High School after getting expelled by her previous school due to violent behavior. On her first day, students gossip about her, to which she bluntly reveals her real reason for expulsion, and everyone treats her differently from then on. She becomes an outcast due to her frank nature and threatening personality. However, Maria expected to start afresh and became close to two classmates. Yusuke Kanda behaves friendly and kind with everyone on the outside but doesn’t feel that way. He tries to teach her his secret tricks to be more approachable and social, but it does not work as expected. Shin Meguro is a dark-haired, broody guy who always seems to frown on people. He comes from a family of musicians, which helps him connect to Maria. He is also a foreign returned but lacks communication skills in English. Maria seems to have a lot on her plate, mainly relating to people and connecting with others, but with little help from her friends, she tries to resolve her issues. Soon people get along with her and like her blunt attitude as she helps her classmates in their need of time.
The Feel-Good Part
The movie portrays an anti-social girl trying her best to get along with her classmates but only intimidating them in return. The female lead character is powerful and honest, which is well portrayed by the actress in her respective role. The production value and directorial style also elevate the series. The initial episodes are much livelier and more creative to watch. Asakawa Nana and Kanda Yusuke were convincing in their acting, but Iijima Hiroki looked like an adult-like presence. As this show is more character-driven, it involves more growth and developmental aspects with complex backstories. The romantic and emotional moments got perfectly executed in this series.
The Disappointing Factor
The show sometimes delivers as a cartoonish enactment rather than a live realistic view, which does not work well. Some storylines are too over-the-top and ridiculously portrayed.
In-Depth Analysis
The show is an adaptation of the manga with the same name, which follows a girl with a devilish personality and violent behavior who is not afraid to speak her mind in any situation. This show captures high school students who try to deal with jealousy, friendships, laughter, relationships, conflicts, fear, loneliness, and their selves. The naked emotions of these teenagers will surface as Maria shakes things up with her bold attitude and fearless intimidation. Meanwhile, there is a chore contest, which might bring out the worst of the students participating.
Star Power
The show got directed by Yokoo Hatsuki and co-written by Yoshida Erika and Okazaki Satoko. Asakawa Nana plays the role of Kawai Maria, Iijima Hiroki portrays the character of Shin Meguro, Okuno So plays the role of Kanda Yusuke, and Ono Karin depicts Nakaruma Ayu in this series.
Overall Opinion
A sure watch for the audience interested in romantic drama with comedic attributes keeping them invested. A fun and enjoyable pass time to watch for viewers.
