Notes
ConTRIVED, if I've ever seen it! Stunningly mediocre, this mishmash of attempted philosophy and cardboard villain monologues. Took itself far too seriously and turned into one big cliché. The dialogue and delivery seemed to preach the story, rather than tell it.
One of those dramas where the main character has to save the day every episode. Either that or she has to succumb to a culminating punishment that just gets reversed anyway. The one thing I did like about the pacing was bringing in Kaname Jun's character at 7. The series really needed a catalyst.
Cardboards like I've never seen in a J-drama. Seira wavers between self righteousness and pity, the students are a flock of sheep just waiting to be slaughtered, and the Principal has a stick up her ass the size of Nebraska. Yes, everyone has a role to play, but the characterizations were painfully over the top. Kaito and Kaori were probably the only believable characters, and carefully leashed performances from Hayashi Kento and Kutsuna Shiori were probably the key reason.
Powerful original material, and they shot it to hell.
If the characters weren't already a shark jumping, then that profane ending sure cemented it.
BLASPHEMY! I call BLASPHEMY, dammit! I admit, I have a healthy does of book purism because
A Little Princess is one of my favorite childhood novels, but COME ON! Frances Hodgson Burnett rolled over in her grave at that ending. I can't even write about it. *shudder*
Wide angles were an eyesore. Didn't look nearly as polished as it should have been.
Much like the rest of the production, the music seemed overdone. Violins pulling some strange, ominous tunes, and pianos never quite hitting the right melodic cadence.
I said they'd be the show's saving grace, and though nothing could really save the show after a point, they were still a good thing. Shida Mirai has a strong presence, which Kento balanced out nicely with his subtle self. Their scenes together were the only indication of maturity, both in plot and production.
Apple's Tier Ranking: 3rd
