Wakatte Ite mo: The Shapes of Love

The previous review that praised the Korean version made me sign up to imdb and leave my review:

This Japanese drama, "The Shapes of Love", is pure artistry. Every frame is so beautiful, seriously, the visuals are breathtaking. The whole thing feels like a poem come to life. The story flows with this beautiful rhythm, and the emotions hit me hard. The cast is incredible, their performances are so nuanced, every glance, every sigh speaks something without needing a dialog

Honestly, I was blown away. And the OST got me hooked immediately. If you're looking for something different, something artistic and moving, you need to watch this.

This remake easily turned the Korean version into a big joke.

Nevertheless: The Shape of Love (2024) is a Japanese remake of the Korean drama "Nevertheless" (2021). The first thing you may notice is the quality and level of tenderness the series conveys.

The show is somewhat nostalgic and visually lush with seemingly endless gorgeous shots and background scenery. As a drama it was very high quality, with excellent cinematography and lighting, beautiful music, compelling cast of characters and a subtle but moving storyline.

This JDrama was a real treat. The film style was very polished and portrayed a lush, hazy, dreamlike atmosphere. The story, although compelling, was very much a slice-of-life story.

"Ren Kosaka, a young talented artist, arrives in Kamakura, Japan for a temporary lecturer position. His aura attracts people, yet he keeps distance. When he meets a woman, his emotions change despite knowing the potential consequences."

This drama was full of heart and soul, dealing with the little intricacies of varied relationships. It was very sweet and touching series that I'm glad I stumbled across. Very artistic and of higher quality. Gice it a chance!

How do you break free from a past that holds you captive? This is the profound question explored in "The Shapes of Love", an 8-episode series available on Netflix, which masterfully intertwines art, love, and healing.

The story follows Miu, a young woman struggling to find her footing after a painful breakup. Guided by a mysterious and rebellious professor, Miu learns that sometimes, destroying the symbols of the past is the first step toward freedom. In a pivotal moment, the professor destroys a sculpture as an act of defiance, teaching Miu an essential lesson: time is not real unless we remain trapped in suffocating moments that weigh down our souls.

This theme resonates deeply with the teachings of Dr. Gabor Maté, author of "When the Body Says No." He explains how unresolved trauma and guilt can keep us stuck, affecting both our health and our ability to live fully in the present. The series illustrates this beautifully, showing that healing begins when we release the past and embrace the present.

Moreover, the professor's philosophy that "we are not defined by what we do" mirrors the insights of Marshall Rosenberg, author of "Nonviolent Communication." Rosenberg teaches that people should not be labeled by their actions - a "guitarist" is not solely a person who plays guitar, and a "drunk" is not just someone who drinks. The series reflects this wisdom, emphasizing that breaking free from labels allows us to discover our true essence.

A poetic metaphor woven throughout the series is that love is like a butterfly. The more desperately you chase it, the more it eludes you. But when you find stillness and embrace vulnerability, it comes to you effortlessly. In this story, the professor becomes Miu's butterfly, as she becomes his, in a delicate dance of mutual liberation and present-moment connection.

Yet, "The Shapes of Love" is not just a love story. It is an invitation to introspection, urging you to ask yourself: What holds me captive in the past? What can I destroy to set myself free? How can I live more authentically?

Take It Further: Books That Deepen the Message

If the themes of "The Shapes of Love" resonate with you, consider exploring:

"When the Body Says No" by Dr. Gabor Maté, which delves into how trauma and suppressed emotions affect your health and life.

"Nonviolent Communication" by Marshall Rosenberg, a guide to connecting with yourself and others without being defined by labels or judgments.

Both books, like the series, can open your eyes to a freer, more authentic, and present-centered life.

If you're ready for this emotional and intellectual journey, start with "The Shapes of Love." Then, dive into the works of Gabor Maté and Marshall Rosenberg to learn how to transform pain into art and suffering into freedom.

Watch the series, explore these books, and reflect: What keeps you trapped, and what could you destroy to let yourself blossom?

When are the Japanese going to learn that bowl haircuts are not a good look, and they never will be. I believe they are out of touch of what is fashionable and what is not. The short hair doesn't fit the females face shape. When it comes to anything fashionable or even making dramas...the Japanese need to take notes from South Korea! The bowl hair cut ruined the entire series, to be honest. For anyone considering wasting their time watching this version of "Nevertheless" don't do it, just watch the original South Korean version, that one is a million times better. Trust me, you'll thank me later.

There are only 8 episodes. Every episode one of the main characters seem to get some "prime time".

It could have been a heartbreaking series. It could have been touching... but no, they failed gigantically. I felt nothing.

The series totally lacks romance, chemistry and (deep) conversations. It's every episode again "I shouldn't like him or her, but nevertheless...".

It's just boring. I wasn't that over-the-top positive about the Korean version, but this one is a million times worse. Not worth a minute of your time. And no I wasn't even fond of the looks of the male lead, but then again 'des goûts et des couleurs, on ne discute pas'.

The only positive about the series was the ending and I mean it in a non-sarcastic way, I liked how the series ended. At least something positive in a rather depressing series.