花より 男子 だんご ▫️2005 ▫️Episodes

Here comes one of the best known and most popular series in the Arashi timeline! Of course there is a manga and other versions of the story, but for me this cast is peak. These characters are simply iconic, especially Domyouji (Matsujun), Tsukushi (Mao) and Rui (Oguri Shun).

This will always be a core memory for me because it’s basically how I discovered Arashi and also deepened my obsession with J-Dramas. Lots of people call MatsuJun Arashi bait, and especially during this time he had these spheres outside of Arashi that were perhaps a bit more well known that continue their legacy to this day. And of course he is completely gorgeous. I remember reading in an interview that he hated his permed hair because it was too hard to coordinate his outfits to, but I think it suits him quite well.

On the surface this is a silly and frustrating romcom. I don’t mean frustrating in a negative way exactly, but in the way this type of romance plays with your emotions as you flail your arms witnessing the madness of everyone’s behavior. The characters are obviously in love but they can’t be together due to misunderstandings or ridiculous external factors. There is a scandalous love triangle and the evil characters get in the way nonstop. When I was 20 I ate this type of story up, and I think aspects of it work really well for me to this day. Even if a love triangle or rich/poor romance is generic, it keeps getting repeated in media because it’s compelling when it’s done well.

A more mature me notices some of the behaviors as problematic and abusive. Yes, this is based on a manga which is a realm that tends to be fantastical, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be viewed with a critical eye. I am in full support of Domyouji and Tsukushi’s romance but also regretful to make her heal someone that has emotionally violent tendencies. I questioned what she gets out of the relationship, at least initially. As Domyouji grows, though, there is a rewarding experience and of course deep down he is a very caring person. I was a Rui fan since day one but it’s not necessarily because I want them to end up together. It’s because he is the only person to treat her with an ounce of respect for a huge portion of the show (Jun mentions in interviews he is also a Rui fan). Of course part of the fun is watching these characters overcome their problems and the Rui vs Domyouji situation is essential.

Despite theses concerns, this is such a strong show and the ending is cathartic. It also has great comedic writing and the cast goes above and beyond, especially Jun. Yes, I can criticize aspects of his character but I have only praise for how he portrays Domyouji. Mao is just as talented and of course their chemistry is electric. I know there are a lot of rumors about them dating in real life but personally I see them more as very good, flirtatious friends. Oguri still captures my heart with his brooding energy and warm smile and I love his soft power in F4. In the end, I wouldn’t change anything about this show. I have only read a bit of the manga so I can’t comment on how it compares; as a stand alone drama it simply shines.