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2 seasons, 15 episodes, 25-minute runtime
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“Hana ni Kedamono” is a Japanese television drama that first aired in 2017. Based on the manga of the same name by Miwako Sugiyama, the series quickly captured the attention of viewers with its intriguing storyline and complex characters. The show revolves around the life of Kumiko Yamada, a high school girl who moves to a new school and finds herself entangled in a love triangle with two brothers, Kōga and Tōru Narumi. What sets this series apart is not just its romantic plot but the depth of its character development and the exploration of themes such as love, friendship, betrayal, and growth.
Plot Overview
Kumiko, also known as Kumi, is a naive and innocent girl who, upon transferring to a new school, instantly falls for the charming and seemingly perfect Kōga Narumi. However, she soon discovers that Kōga has a darker, more complex side. Meanwhile, Tōru, Kōga’s brother, appears to be cold and distant but harbors deep feelings for Kumi. The series delves into the complexities of their relationships, the secrets they hide, and the choices they make in the name of love and loyalty.
Characters
Kumiko Yamada
Kumi is the heart of the series. Her journey from a naive girl to someone who understands the complexities of love and friendship forms the core narrative. Her innocence is both her strength and her downfall, as it allows her to see the good in people but also makes her vulnerable.
Kōga Narumi
Kōga is the quintessential bad boy with a heart of gold, or so it seems. His relationship with Kumi is complicated by his own demons and the secrets he keeps. His character challenges the viewer’s perceptions, as his actions often blur the lines between right and wrong.
Tōru Narumi
Tōru is the more mysterious of the Narumi brothers. His cold exterior hides a much softer side, especially when it comes to Kumi. His character development is one of the most interesting, as it explores themes of unrequited love, sacrifice, and personal growth.
Themes
Love and Its Complexities
At its core, “Hana ni Kedamono” is a love story, but it’s far from a simple one. It explores how love can be both beautiful and destructive, bringing out the best and the worst in people. The series doesn’t shy away from showing how love can lead to betrayal, misunderstandings, and pain, but it also highlights its capacity for forgiveness and healing.
Friendship and Loyalty
The friendships in “Hana ni Kedamono” are just as complex as its romantic relationships. The series showcases how true friendship can withstand trials and tribulations, but it also poses questions about loyalty and the lengths one should go to protect a friend. The dynamic between Kumi and her friends adds a rich layer to the narrative, providing moments of levity and heartache.
Growth and Self-Discovery
Each character in “Hana ni Kedamono” undergoes significant personal growth. The series is as much about their individual journeys as it is about their relationships with each other. It’s a coming-of-age story that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled with finding their place in the world.
Why It Stands Out
“Hana ni Kedamono” stands out for several reasons. Firstly, its storytelling is nuanced, avoiding the trap of one-dimensional characters and predictable plotlines. Secondly, the performances of the cast bring depth to their roles, making the characters’ emotions palpable and relatable. Lastly, the series doesn’t rely on cliches to move the story forward; instead, it finds strength in its subtlety and the authenticity of its narrative.
Conclusion
“Hana ni Kedamono” is a series that will pull you into its world from the first episode. It’s a beautifully crafted tale of love, friendship, and growth that challenges its characters and its viewers to look beyond the surface. Whether you’re drawn to the love triangle, intrigued by the secrets, or invested in the characters’ personal journeys, there’s something in this series for everyone. It’s a reminder that love is complex, friendship is invaluable, and growth is continuous. And that’s what makes “Hana ni Kedamono” a must-watch.