4.7 / 10 (based on 84 reviews)
Toko was raised by an uncle when, as a little girl, her parents died in a car accident. She was a singer and dancer and dreamt of bigger things as an artist. Older and ready she is headed to Tokyo for an audition. Unfortunately, the day is 11.03.2011 and an earthquake and subsequent tsunami hits Japan. She volunteers to help and there meets a man roughly her age.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Kasumi Arimura, Kentarô Sakaguchi, Ji-young Kang, Amane Okayama
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1 season, 6 episodes
Shows Most Like And Live (2019)
Nagi’s Long Vacation (2019)
7.2 / 10 (based on 459 reviews)
Nagi’s curly hair is not her ideal so she spends a long time straightening it every day. Growing tired of it all and being triggered she becomes a hermit and goes for broke one day however. Not caring about anything includes leaving her hair messy. The disorganization seems to work for her. She is more relaxed, has more time and while she may not be pretty she actually is more relaxed and happy about her existence.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Haru Kuroki, Yoshiko Mita, Tomoya Nakamura, Tamaki Shiratori
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1 season, 10 episodes
Rigaru Hai (2012)
8.4 / 10 (based on 2146 reviews)
A never-lose lawyer, Kensuke Komikado, uses his way and understanding of the spirit of the law to win every case on the court of law.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Masato Sakai, Yui Aragaki, Kôtarô Satomi, Junnosuke Taguchi
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2 seasons, 21 episodes, 54.0-minute runtime
Unsung Cinderella: Byoin Yakuzaishi no Shohosen (2020)
6.1 / 10 (based on 102 reviews)
Midori Aoi is a pharmacist and in the eight-year span of her career, she has worked according to her strong belief that “One must know the patient well in order to prescribe the correct medication as medicine is the bond that connects the patient’s today to his/her daily life henceforth”. Due to that, Midori usually takes a long time in her consultations with the patients, and this causes her to be complained by her colleagues for being too inefficient in her work. Midori shrugs off the complaints as her goal is to help the patients regain the daily life that they once took for granted. The drama takes place at Yorozuya General Hospital where Midori works, and it showcases her work ethics and her interaction with her fellow colleagues.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Denden, Moeka Hoshi, Tetsuhiro Ikeda, Kai Inowaki
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1 season, 11 episodes
In the landscape of television, where shows come and go with the speed of a fast-forward button, “And Live” (2019) stands out as a remarkable exception. This TV show has not only captured the hearts of its audience but has also managed to do so by steering clear of the usual storytelling tropes and gimmicks that many of its contemporaries rely on. This article aims to explore the elements that make “And Live” a must-watch, from its unique storyline to its compelling characters and the innovative way it approaches sensitive topics.
The Storyline
At its core, “And Live” is a narrative about resilience, love, and the complexities of human relationships. The show follows the lives of a diverse group of individuals who, after surviving a catastrophic event, are left to rebuild their lives and find meaning in a world that has been irrevocably changed. What sets “And Live” apart is its refusal to lean into the melodrama. Instead, the series opts for a more nuanced exploration of its themes, making the story not just relatable but deeply impactful.
Characters That Feel Like Real People
One of the show’s strongest points is its characters. Each character is meticulously crafted, with their own flaws, strengths, and intricate backstories. Unlike many other shows, “And Live” doesn’t have clear-cut heroes and villains. The characters are complex, making choices that are sometimes questionable, yet always understandable. This complexity allows the audience to see themselves in the characters, making their journeys all the more compelling.
Examples of Character Complexity
- The Reluctant Leader: One of the characters finds themselves in a leadership position, not out of desire but necessity. Their journey from uncertainty to finding their own way of leading is a highlight of the show.
- The Survivor: Another character deals with survivor’s guilt, exploring the psychological impact of surviving a disaster when others did not. Their path towards healing is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
Tackling Sensitive Topics
“And Live” does not shy away from difficult topics. Mental health, loss, and the process of healing are central themes. What is remarkable is how the show addresses these issues. There’s no sugarcoating, yet the show manages to maintain a sense of hope and resilience. It’s a delicate balance that “And Live” strikes perfectly, making it an important conversation starter about topics that are often considered taboo.
How “And Live” Approaches These Topics
- Through Realistic Storytelling: The show avoids sensationalizing its themes. Instead, it presents them in a way that feels authentic, encouraging a more profound understanding and empathy from its viewers.
- By Providing Different Perspectives: “And Live” shows that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with trauma or mental health issues. By presenting a variety of coping mechanisms and healing processes, the show emphasizes the importance of personal journeys.
Innovation in Storytelling
In a television landscape filled with sequels, prequels, and reboots, “And Live” brings a breath of fresh air. The show’s narrative structure is innovative, often playing with timelines and perspectives to reveal the story in a way that keeps viewers on their toes. This approach not only adds depth to the storytelling but also allows for a more immersive viewing experience.
Examples of Innovative Storytelling
- Non-linear Narratives: “And Live” frequently uses flashbacks and flash-forwards, weaving a complex narrative that gradually reveals the connections between characters and events.
- Multiple Perspectives: Episodes often focus on a single character, providing insights into their thoughts and motivations. This not only adds layers to the characters but also creates a more nuanced understanding of the story as a whole.
Why “And Live” Is a Must-Watch
“And Live” is more than just a TV show. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-watch:
- It’s Relatable: Despite its extraordinary circumstances, the show’s themes of love, loss, and resilience are universal.
- It’s Thought-Provoking: “And Live” encourages viewers to think deeply about the issues it presents, sparking important conversations.
- It’s Beautifully Crafted: From the writing to the acting and the cinematography, every aspect of “And Live” is executed with care and precision.
Conclusion
In an era where television often opts for the easy route of sensationalism and clichés, “And Live” stands out for its commitment to authenticity, complexity, and innovation. It’s a show that not only entertains but also challenges and inspires its viewers. Whether you’re drawn to its unique storyline, complex characters, or the way it tackles sensitive topics, “And Live” is a show that deserves a spot on your watchlist.