Nojima Shinji has written many classic Japanese dramas over the years including
Pride,
Strawberry on the Shortcake, and
Golden Bowl. His most recent work,
Aikurushii, a.k.a.
Sweet, which aired on TBS in 2005, is a touching family drama set in a small rural town. Without bells or whistles,
Aikurushii presents a simple story about family, friendship, and love, reconnecting the viewers with universal sentiments too easily overlooked in the bustle of daily life. Up-and-coming stars Ayase Haruka (
Crying Out Love, In the Center of the World) and Ichihara Hayato (
All About Lily Chou Chou), child actors Kamiki Ryunosuke (
The Great Yokai War) and Matsumoto Rina, and veterans Takenaka Naoto, Harada Mieko, and Sugiura Naoki make up the drama's seven-member family. The vast supporting cast also includes familiar names like Oguri Shun (
Hana Yori Dango) and Sawajiri Erika (
Pacchigi!!).
The Mashiba family live simple lives in a small town. Father Tetsuo (Takenaka Naoto) is a taxi driver who wears his emotions on his sleeve, while Yumi (Harada Mieko) is every bit the loving mother and wife. Eldest son Go (Ichihara Hayato) is brusque, but kind-hearted, and eldest daughter Michiru (Ayase Haruka) is strong and perseverant. Little brother Horo (Kamiki Ryunosuke) is always a beat behind, little sister Uta (Matsumoto Rina) is always tagging along. Holding the family together is the quiet gravity of Grandfather Meiji (Sugiura Naoki). One day, Yumi faints suddenly. With the mother sick and hospitalized, everything changes for the family...
© 2005-2009 YesAsia.com Ltd. All rights reserved.
This original content has been created by or licensed to YesAsia.com, and cannot be copied or republished in any medium without the express written permission of YesAsia.com.
Bookmark & Share