Drama Digest
“Old Rookie” is a 2022 Japanese sports drama. It tells the story of Shinmachi Ryotaro, who is a 37-year-old retired Japanese national football player. He has retired recently and now has a new part in society. Ryotaro has already started his second career, but he cannot accept the fact that he is retired and struggles to tell the same to his daughters. As a sports enthusiast, he then works as an agent in a sports management company named “Victory”. There he manages active athletes and learns about their stories. As he gains experience from the stories, he ponders upon his life and now has a decision to make: to choose football or a new beginning.
The Feel-Good Part
This drama is purely emotional. It attracts the audience with emotions. Ryotaro has an outstanding character and a heart of gold. The portrayal of his complex situations, ups, and downs faced in his new workplace, sets the show apart from the other basic sports story. He undergoes excellent character development. The drama does not have a big plot or an interesting storyline, but it is still enjoyable. It also included different types of athletes and problems that a sports company faces. This drama is best suited to watch with family with all its funny and sweet moments.
The Disappointing Factor
The drama does not have disappointing factors but some viewers may not enjoy it as it is simple and shows a typical Japanese workplace story. The whole focus of the show was set on Ryotaro and hence, they simply put aside the other characters. It is not memorable but good for a one-time watch.
In-Depth Analysis
Ryotaro, a former professional soccer player, devoted his whole life to football. He was a member of the National soccer team. He once suffered an injury and his play has been in decline ever since. Hence, he had to play in the J3 league. And as a result, he had to retire as a soccer player. His whole life, the only thing he knew about was soccer, but now that he is retired, he must find a regular job and be a part of the general society. His daughters are proud of him for being a national-level soccer player and so, he struggles to tell them; he is retired. Later, he joins the sports agency named “Victory” which is related to his passion. He does his job with great dedication, but his retirement is still hard for him to accept. And hence it shows his struggles while he works at the company.
Star Power
The protagonist Ayano Go did an outstanding performance of bringing out all the emotions. The rest of the cast, which includes Fukazawa Toko, Katshushika Goro, Umeyashiki Sota, Takayanagi Masashi, and Jo Takuya, also performed their roles well.
Overall Opinion
This is a feel-good show and won’t disappoint you. The story is simple and emotional and also easy to understand. It is good for a one-time watch with family.
