Drama Review: Ase To Sekken

9

Rating

★★★★

Episodes

9

Drama Digest

Natori Kotaro works as a product development planner for “Lilia Drop,” a cosmetics and bath product maker, and specializes in detecting different scents. One day, Kotaro smells something unusual, which turns out to be Yaejima Asako, an office lady from the finance department who has a problem with her profuse sweating as a result of being bullied as a child. She frequently uses deodorant in the restroom and is conscious of her “smell” while at work. Kotaro follows Asako while inventing a new product and asks her to use the product and let him sniff her for a week. As their interactions grew more frequent, Asako became increasingly drawn to Kotaro’s honest opinions, while Kotaro began to recognize Asako’s allure.

The Feel-Good Part

It began out as a strange and humorous show, but it ended up being quite poignant and serving as an example of how a healthy partnership should be. With the exception of the penultimate episode, the show usually makes care to handle the tension of the episode in the same episode, and there is seldom any miscommunication that isn’t addressed in the same episode. This was a breath of fresh air for someone who watches a lot of dramas.

The Disappointing Factor

None of the side characters were properly fleshed out, therefore they were just that: side characters. It’s frivolous and a little cringe-worthy at points, but it’s a fine programme in its own right. In addition, the plot was rushed at the end.

In-Depth Analysis

Despite her shy demeanour, Asako Yaeshima is dedicated to her career. Asako works in the accounting department at Lilia Drop, a toiletries and cosmetics firm, and she adores her job because the company’s products are the only ones on the market that can help her control her persistent perspiration and strong body odour. Asako has acquired a complex about her natural stench as a result of being bullied brutally as a youngster, but her company’s products have given her the courage she needs to overcome her fears. At least until she meets Kotaro Natori one day. Kotaro, a Lilia Drop product development planner, has a keen sense of smell, which he uses on a regular basis. He smells something he’s never smelled before while working on the company’s newest product. When Kotaro follows the fragrance to its source, he comes face to face with Asako. Kotaro can’t get enough of Asako’s distinct smell and finds himself captivated to the shy accountant. Kotaro is inspired by her perfume and asks her to test the company’s newest product for a week while he sniffs the results. Asako agrees to Kotaro’s strange request since she can’t think of a way to say no. As the two develop a truly unique working relationship, they understand they are much more than just a strong odour and a great sniffer. Will Asako and Kotaro’s working friendship create a new office romance as they grow closer?

Star Power

It’s difficult to consider the male lead as exploitive or manipulating because he is so sincere. The female was initially timid, but she was nourished by the relationship and grew stronger as a result of it, and she was able to come to grips with her situation. Their chemistry is apparent and their attraction is reciprocal. The show has a wonderful rhythm and is entirely focused on their love story. This leads us to the most exciting section of the show.

Overall Opinion

Characters are used to strange Japanese comedy and over-the-top acting. This one is for you if you want a dosage of saccharine cuteness with a side of cotton-candy glossiness and a simple but fast-paced romantic narrative.