I’m not watching many doramas, but this one is good. Starring a 5-year-old kid, it offers many lessons to learn while also being entertaining.
The story follows an unpopular manga writer, Shin Karino (Yu Yokoyama), who lives in an apartment complex. One day, he suddenly discovers that a 5-year-old kid, Kotaro Sato (Eito Kawahara), has moved in next door and he’s living alone. Curious about how a child can live by himself, Karino gradually forms a bond with Kotaro. Not only their relationship, but also Kotaro’s interactions with the other residents of the apartment complex, make the story compelling.
At first, Karino is annoyed by Kotaro, but over time, they grow closer. What I like about this series is how the writer and director present it in such a lighthearted way, despite its undeniably heavy themes. It explores life and humanity through Kotaro’s story. He is a child who has had to endure his father’s domestic violence against his mother. Until the end of Season 1, Kotaro remains unaware that his mother has actually passed away.
One thing that melts Karino’s heart is Kotaro’s smile when he sees his drawings. It gives Karino the confidence to create better manga every day.
Kotaro is a mature child, though he still has his childish side. He can tell when someone is lying to him. I remember him saying, “No lie could ever make me happy.”
He admires a certain anime character, which I believe represents the kind of person Kotaro wants to become—strong and resilient. He always carries his toy swords everywhere. That anime holds a deep, implicit meaning for him; it reminds him of his mother, who used to smile at him while they watched it together. The character even influences the way he speaks.
I love that… and I love his relationship with Karino. He calls him Good Neighbor and Lord Karino. Their bond is unique, almost like brothers or family. The other residents of the apartment complex are also endearing, each with their own backstory: Lady Mizuki (Yamamoto Maika), Lord Tamaru (Namase Katsuhisa), the elderly couple (both played by Issey Ogata), and Lady Ayano (Mitsuishi Ken). They all add warmth and depth to the story.
How does Kotaro manage to live alone? He regularly receives money from a law firm, which actually comes from his mother’s insurance. However, he doesn’t know the truth because the law firm tells him it’s a donation.
More importantly, Kotaro has the courage and determination to become a strong and independent person. That’s why he chooses to live alone rather than in foster care. In his heart, he believes that if he becomes strong and brave enough, his father will stop being violent and finally love him.
Oh… how could a child think like that? I cried.
Kotaro is such a lovable character, and his presence has a meaningful impact on the apartment complex. Without him, the residents might never have grown so close to each other.
Although the story is light and entertaining, I find myself crying in every episode. It’s an emotional roller coaster, you’ll smile and cry while watching this series. I highly recommend this drama, and I’m definitely hoping for a Season 2!
Watch on netflix
Gonna miss them so much!! Season 2 please………..
Photos: mydramalist | teaser: Johnny’s official