Drama Review: Iki Wo Hisomete

8

Rating

★★★★

Episodes

8

Drama Digest

The pandemic hit us all hard. Our normal routine overnight. Along with we discovered a new facet in relationships that altered family dynamics.

The series explores something similar.

The Tama river flowing between Tokyo and Kanagawa has a life of its own. People picnic, cyclists ride, runners jog, and couples meet for intimate moments among others. The place is rich in flora and fauna.

But in 2020 when the pandemic hit and we had to be cooped up in our homes, it completely transformed our lives. The series explores the effects of the pandemic on relationships.

It has five main stories running in parallel. The first is about a female running a small eatery that is frequented by a male customer. But when COVID hits, she does not get to meet him as often yet when he does visit, they have time together as he is the only one.

Or another story where a couple meets on a dating app and the progress of their rapport during the pandemic. The third is about a school-going girl whose life turns around as she no longer has classes offline.  Her relationship with her parents and friends is traced.

The fourth is about evolving bond between a mother and son during Corona. The fifth is about a young couple whose bond takes on a new meaning during the pandemic.

The central line of all the stories is human relationships and emotions during the pandemic.

The Feel-Good Part

The visuals and music are fabulous. They spruce up the script.

The costumes are also on point and each story has an element of gratitude.

The performances of the lead (both males and females) are good.

The Disappointing Factor

None

In-Depth Analysis

Each one of our lives changed for the better or worse during the pandemic. While humans were locked in their homes, nature had a wonderful time.

The series explores the inhabitants living along the Tama river.

On one side of the river is Tokyo, the biggest and grandest city in Japan. On the other side is Kanagawa, the quieter and humble sibling. The river connects them both.

Japanese families celebrate the onset of spring. But in spring 2020 all that changes when Corona hits us hard. The life that they know is different owing to the new reality. Owing to this, relationships and their dynamics also change.

The series delves into the impact of the pandemic on certain families living along the river.

Star Power

Every story has a different set of actors. Each one of them has emoted so well that it touches the soul.

Overall Opinion

It is a must-watch although be ready for the tear-dam to burst.