Wanitokagegisu Review

Drama: Swimming in the Dark (English title)

Romaji: Wanitokagegisu

Japanese: わにとかげぎす

Actors: Teppei Arita, Tsubasa Honda, Kento Kaku, Kaito Yoshimura, Kom_I

Director: Toshio Tsuboi

Writer: Minoru Furuya (manga), Izumi Takahashi

Network: TBS

This is not your ordinary type of romantic comedy, it is love story between two opposite type of people, there is an age gap issue and you will scratch your head thinking how the hell she fell in love with him. Most of you will be turn off because of this and I don't blame you as I were like that during the first episode. Though I grew liking the guy's character as the story progress I also think this drama would be better with a younger and bit more good looking lead.

Meet Yuji Tomioka(Teppei Arita), a guy in his late 30's, never been in a relationship, he is living a boring life. One night during his work as a security guard, he wishes to a shooting star to have friends. Then later we are introduced to a Azusa Hada(Tsubasa Honda) mysterious girl who is stalking Tomioka and secretly in love with him.

Let me give you a warning to the tone of drama, it is weird and a bit jarring as it starts as a comedy then take a dark turn in the middle episodes. If you are familiar with the movie Himeanole this drama has the same tone but unlike Himeanole it keeps its fun elements even after that dark twist. The comedy here is really good like seriously it is one of the funniest shows I've watched and the situation where this hot chick is in love with this guy and this guy doesn't give a damn is best thing about this show.

The pacing is really good, flow of each episode is a breeze, and every moment is dedicated to the development of these two characters. I would separate this show into 3 arcs, first part is when he gain friends, second would be that dark twist, third is where their love blossoms. If you are looking for a quick watch, fun drama this would be it.

Though they look awkward together these two characters do have chemistry. When I said chemistry I didn't mean romance but the comedic aspect. It's always fun seeing them together. Tsubasa Honda is the hottest stalker I've ever seen, and if you are a guy you would envy the lead guy in this drama, he is indeed the luckiest character in Japanese drama ever. Also, If you are a fan of Tsubasa Honda this is a must watch as this drama shows her cutest form yet.