Drama Digest
Nothing can summarise the show better than its title. Ie, Tsuite-itte li desu ka translates to ‘Is it okay to go home with you?’ and the series’s premise revolves around this question. Based on a reality show of the same name, Ie, Tsuite-itte Ii Desu ka is a dramatization of the adventures of Tamaoka Naoto as he interviews strangers in the streets of Tokyo. Each episode follows different people and the story they wish to voice.
The Feel-Good part
The premise of the show is down-to-earth and intriguing. Since it is based on a reality show, the stories have an air of authenticity to them that the camera has managed to capture. Every person that we meet in the course of these episodes becomes a hero in their own right. Their stories are well articulated and touching.
The Disappointing Factor
Since the show is a remake in some sense, comparisons to the original reality show are inevitable. The acting overall is good, but it falls a little short in some episodes.
In-Depth Analysis
The series attempts to shed light on various true situations. It does a compelling job at it as well. The original Ie, Tsuite-itte Ii Desu ka, aired in the early 2000s. The show, in its attempts to recreate those moments, creates something entirely new. It’s a short show; however, it manages to pack several bold and beautiful stories within this short runtime. The acting overall is well done. It aids itself well in the genre of narrative. Unlike typical Asian stories that tend to exaggerate and amplify all issues and emotions, it is refreshing to watch something that deals with real people as such. The camera work, editing and writing are also done well. The show still does add drama, but not in ways that reduce your immersion.
Star Power
Ryusei Ryo does a fantastic job as Tamaoka Naoto as he guides us through the anthology. Compared to his other roles, his role as a journalist with a camera in ie, tsuite-itte li desuka is carefree.
Overall Opinion
Ie, Tsuite-itte Ii Desuka makes you ponder the lives of people you pass by every day. It is a feel-good show that still manages to touch your heart in unexpected ways.
