DRAMA REVIEW: Brother Beat (2005) - Japan

OK so i'm shallow and started watching this because of two bishies. So sue me.

This drama is essentially a family, comedic drama centred around a widow Haru and her three sons: Tatsuya, Kiku and Junpei and the trials and tribulations each go through as they grow, mature, find love and purpose to their lives. Tatsuya (Tamayama Tetsuji) and Kiku (Hayami Mokomichi) are the resident bishies. And might I say Moko-chan is mighty good looking in this . Ok nuff said. Back to serious review...ahem. Now I love Japanese family-orientated dramas as there's always that sense of respect and camaderie in each family. For example, I adore the Japanese greeting custom of 'ittekimasu', 'tadaima' and 'Okaeri'. That simple acknowledgment of when a person comes or leaves the house makes a person feel valued in the household.

This family is no different and is very close (despite the constant tantrums, brother-bashing and ninja slapping that goes on). This drama works best when they're focusing on problems each son is facing - the serious, workaholic eldest son still pining for his ex, the wild and immature middle child (with obvious middle child syndrome) and the kind youngest son that keeps getting taken advantage of. Their mother, Haru is hilarious and a complete loose cannon and she is the centre-piece of this drama. Her response to an obstinate potential in-law later on in the show is priceless!

However, the drama's pacing begins to unravel mid way through when the central romance plot-line begins to take over and bored me to tears. The main love interest Chisato fell in love with Tatsuya at first sight and pines for him ever since. The girl is personality devoid, doormat and it makes me ANGRY! Personally, i thought the ex was spunky and way better than Chisato - sure she was fickle but that can be forgiven hehe. I'm soo used to the atomic level chemistry that Korean drama couples have that watching a couple with ZERO chemistry was Painful. Painful. Painful.

I never thought I'd say a drama would be better off without the main romance. oh lulz.

Overall, the drama is worth watching for Haru, a few moments of comedy gold and for the family dynamics which is fun to watch. The love storyline is what pulled this drama down for me and if you use your fast-forward button wisely and liberally, you'll enjoy this drama very much.

Linwe's Rating: 6.5/10