Welcome to The Avocado’s weekly discussion of Japanese pop culture! Before my return flight last week I realized I had the perfect way to pass the time on a long plane ride: download and watch a J-drama! So I went to my very long, always growing, watchlist and chose「やわ男とカタ子」Yawao to Katako, a 2023 series based on the manga by Nagata Ayumi (長田亜弓). I read the first volume of the manga a while back, but when I saw the live-action series announced I decided to watch that and (as if often the case) forgot about it, until now! I’m so glad I watched this, and I will definitely prioritize the manga now (which is ongoing) because it was really sweet and the characters were interesting and engaging.
It’s about a woman who sees herself as very plain and generally not worthy of romance (extremely low self-image, hard to watch at times) who meets a very fashionable man with a “feminine”1 style and mannerisms (and, as it turns out, bisexual) at a mixer. Unable to leave her alone, the man decides to help her find her footing, which starts as a rather superficial “makeover” type thing but is quickly expanded to show her struggles and growth as a whole person who can see herself as worthy. The premise might seem a little goofy on the surface, but it took the subject matter surprisingly seriously while still managing to bring comedic elements. I was especially fond of the very real and complicated relationship she has with other women, especially her best friend. Comparing yourself to others who seem to have it all together and can effortlessly pull of the style you only dream of, thinking that you can’t pull off or shouldn’t even try feminine styles even though that’s what you love…hit a little close to home at times. Also, it’s very romantic! Admittedly, I wondered at times if the show was playing into some stereotypes with the male lead’s behavior (the actor felt a little unnatural at times, especially early on). But as the story progressed, and they reveal more about his experiences and desires, it felt more purposeful. I was surprised to see the show actually explore the alienation and rejection he has experienced throughout his life, and continues to experience (including some stumbles with the main character), in a way that felt real without simply being “tragic”. Oh wow, I am rambling! Sorry! Here’s the closest thing I found to a trailer, but I’d be happy to share more (and how to watch/read) in the comments.
And, as always…
What have you been watching/reading/playing/eating/listening to lately?
Happy Wednesday! 🌸