J-drama, J-drama review, mild spoilers

Sakurai Drama Review: Kazoku Game

Kazoku_Game Or “Family Game”, based on a novel, made into a movie, and now remade thirty years later.

No, I haven’t seen the movie or any other version. I don’t know if I really want to after this.

And that is not because this drama is bad. Quite the contrary.

It’s just uncomfortable.
From the beginning to the very end, this drama makes you very, very uncomfortable. I believe that is the point. That being said, I can’t imagine how much more uncomfortable the movie must be.

Basic summary: The Numata family hires Yoshimoto Kouya (Sakurai Sho) to tutor their “problem son”, who refuses to go to school. He says he can definitely do this, but the family must never interfere with his methods. So his father signs a contract – and all hell breaks loose.

Kazoku Game might have its problems, but you should watch it. Don’t let the presence of an idol chase you away.

(EDITED 14/09/13: I wasn’t happy with how my original edit worked out. Due to tiredness or carelessness on my part there were parts I forgot to include, muddled thoughts and typos. I’ve tried to fix those as best I can and I apologize to those of you who read the original in that state.)

(Some spoilers ahead.)

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