Review: Densha Otoko

Summary
Alternative Titles: 電車男, でんしゃおとこ, The Train Man
Genre: Romance, comedy
Episodes: 11
Broadcast Year: 2005
Starring: Itoh Mizaki as Aoyama Saori, Itoh Atsushi as Yamada Tsuyoshi

Aoyama Saori works as an office lady. One day, she gets uncomfortable on the train when a drunken old man approaches her. She's saved by Yamada Tsuyoshi, who is an otaku (someone obsessed with anime, manga, games etc.). As a form of appreciation, she sends him “Hermes” teacups ("Hermes" is an expensive brand). Tsuyoshi, being an otaku, has no experience with the opposite sex, so he decides to ask for help on a internet message board on how to respond to Saori.

Interesting Facts
- Densha Otoko is a true story based on a message board discussion from the Internet.
- A Densha Otoko novel, a blockbuster hit movie and several mangas were also made.
- Otakus really exist in Japan.
- A large part of this drama takes place in a real distinct in Tokyo called Akihabara. Akihabara is the haven for an otaku and it's full of anime/manga shops, maid cafes, computer shops and anything that otakus like.

Review
Densha Otoko is definitely my all-time favourite J-drama. The reason why I like it so much is because there are so many interesting and funny characters. Itoh Atsushi does a great job of being an otaku. In every scene he acts exactly like what most people think an otaku will act like. There are also the people on the message board who are equally funny. Densha Otoko focuses on comedy but there are also many romantic scenes in the last few episodes of the series.


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Pros

• There are many funny characters and unforgettable scenes.
• Atsushi does a good job of portraying an otaku.
• The scenes showing conversation between the message board members were well made.
  
• Good balance of comedy and romance.
• Many plot twists to keep story interesting.

Cons I can't think of any! (-_-')

Recommendation
If you've never watched a Japanese drama before, this is the best one to get you hooked on J-dramas. If your a J-drama fan already, I strongly recommend Densha Otoko.

Rating: 10/10

Stay Tuned! I plan to review the Densha Otoko Specials. Both of which are sequels.