5.6 / 10 (based on 688 reviews)
Country bumpkin Risa is a virgin who dreams of romance in the big city now that she has moved to Tokyo to attend a university. She has the looks and men are interested in her, but it is Hiroto who grabs her first with his cocky mannerisms and spiffy attire. A romance blossoms, but someone has a hidden history.
Genre: Romance
Main Cast: Dôri Sakurada, Haruka Fukuhara, Yûki Ogoe, Shôgo Hama
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1 season, 10 episodes, 25-minute runtime
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“Coffee And Vanilla” (2019) is a Japanese drama that has caught the attention of many for its sweet, albeit somewhat unconventional, love story. This show takes its viewers on a journey through the complexities of a relationship that, on the surface, seems too good to be true. But as we peel back the layers, we find a narrative rich with themes of self-discovery, trust, and the challenges of navigating love when the world seems to be against you.
The Basics
Before we delve deeper, let’s lay down the groundwork. “Coffee And Vanilla” is based on a manga series of the same name, written by Takara Akegami. The show stars Haruka Fukuhara as Risa Shiroki, a 20-year-old university student with little experience in love, and Dori Sakurada as Hiroto Fukami, a 30-year-old successful businessman who seems to have everything under control. Their paths cross in a fateful encounter that quickly escalates into a deep, passionate relationship.
The Plot
At its core, the plot of “Coffee And Vanilla” is simple yet captivating. Risa, the protagonist, moves to Tokyo for her university studies and soon finds herself overwhelmed by the vastness of the city and the impersonal nature of her new life. Enter Hiroto, the knight in shining armor, who not only rescues her from a precarious situation but also sweeps her off her feet with his charm and confidence.
However, this isn’t your typical “damsel in distress” narrative. The show delves into the complexities of their relationship, exploring the dynamics of power, the importance of communication, and the insecurities that come with stark differences in age and experience.
Characters and Relationships
Risa Shiroki
Risa is the quintessential girl-next-door, naive and inexperienced in the ways of the world. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she navigates the challenges of a new city, university life, and a relationship that pushes her out of her comfort zone. Risa’s character development is central to the show’s narrative, transforming from a timid girl into a woman who learns to assert herself and make her own decisions.
Hiroto Fukami
Hiroto, on the other hand, is the epitome of success and confidence. However, his character is not without depth. Behind the facade of perfection lies a man grappling with his own vulnerabilities and the fear of losing Risa. His protective nature, while endearing, often borders on possessiveness, a trait that the show does not shy away from critiquing.
Their Relationship
The relationship between Risa and Hiroto is the heart of “Coffee And Vanilla”. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of intense passion juxtaposed with periods of doubt and insecurity. The show does an excellent job of portraying the complexities of love, especially when external pressures and societal norms come into play.
Themes and Messages
“Coffee And Vanilla” is more than just a love story. It’s a narrative filled with important themes and messages that resonate with its audience.
The Power of Love
At its core, the show is a testament to the power of love. It explores how love can be both a source of strength and vulnerability, pushing characters to grow and confront their fears.
The Importance of Communication
The series highlights the importance of communication in a relationship. Risa and Hiroto’s journey is marked by misunderstandings and assumptions, illustrating how lack of communication can lead to conflict.
Challenging Societal Norms
“Coffee And Vanilla” challenges societal norms and stereotypes, particularly around relationships with significant age gaps. It encourages viewers to look beyond the surface and understand the complexities of such relationships.
Why Watch “Coffee And Vanilla”?
The Chemistry Between the Leads
The undeniable chemistry between Haruka Fukuhara and Dori Sakurada is one of the show’s highlights. Their performances bring Risa and Hiroto’s love story to life, making their relationship feel genuine and heartfelt.
The Visuals
The cinematography and visual aesthetics of “Coffee And Vanilla” are worth noting. The show uses a soft, warm palette that complements the sweet nature of the story, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere.
The Relatability
Despite its seemingly fairy-tale setup, “Coffee And Vanilla” touches on issues and emotions that are deeply relatable. From the fear of opening up to someone to the excitement of a new love, the show captures the essence of human relationships.
Conclusion
“Coffee And Vanilla” (2019) is a show that defies expectations. What starts as a simple love story unfolds into a nuanced exploration of relationships, self-discovery, and the courage to face one’s fears. It’s a reminder that love, in all its forms, is complex and challenging, but ultimately worth the journey. Whether you’re a fan of romance dramas or just looking for a show that offers more than meets the eye, “Coffee And Vanilla” is a sweet, satisfying watch that leaves a lasting impression.