父さん ▫️2000 ▫️Info

This drama special wasn’t very easy to find information about. The FNS event was somewhat documented on Wikipedia but nothing about this part really. In general it doesn’t look like these FNS Days were archived well until the later years, which is unfortunate. It could be I just didn’t dig deep enough so if you know any info please let me know!

This was Sho’s first lead role and I think he did a nice job. It was not an easy role to play, considering he had to be very distraught to the point of even trying to kill himself. I think Sho as an actor has a certain warmth that makes him a good fit for these somber roles because his presence soothes you through the pain. I’ve always had the impression that Sho wasn’t a strong actor, but I think I’m starting to change my mind. There is a simplicity to his character portrayals that is growing on me.

I have to admit there were parts of the show that I couldn’t fully pay attention to, but I was still touched by its message. The ending was very sweet and hopeful (like most Arashi media). As a bonus, Keiko Takahashi plays his mother (who was Jun’s mother in Hitsuyou no nai Hito), Mao Inoue plays the younger sister (from Boys over Flowers) and Shingo Katori from SMAP is the older brother. The show mostly focuses on Sho’s experiences and perspective, though.

I have noticed an ongoing theme in Jdramas about young people feeling burdened by the expectations of society, their families etc and trying to walk their own path. Because society in Japan is (generally) hierarchical and conservative, it’s great to see this viewed through the eyes of those that can’t figure out how to fit in. I don’t think this type of story attempts to condemn traditional values, but only intends to highlight some of the pain or suffering that can be caused when people refuse to adapt or have compassion for areas that fall outside of tradition.

If you don’t have time to watch everything, then I think this one can be skipped. But if you are a mega Sho fan, I’d recommend watching his first role! It’s quite serious and I can tell he gave it his all.