As a reader of the original manga, I didn't have a great deal of expectation for this series. Firstly, because manga adaptations rarely live up to the source material, and secondly, because many readers felt that Junko's character in the original work was too indecisive and easily swayed, and as the target of such criticism, I thought it would be hard to make her relatable/likable.
So then, color me shocked to discover that despite leaving the number and characteristics of Junko's suitors unchanged, the screenwriters managed to keep her from seeming fickle or weak-willed in the slightest. Moreover, despite some reworking of the overall plotline, nearly all the original elements/characters remained intact, and, not only did the original work not suffer, but on the contrary, the storytelling became far deeper, richer, more human and heartwarming. As far as story editing and screenwriting goes, this is one of the most masterful adapations I've seen (and OMG, giving Junko a crab-aholic and hilariously spastic side was sheer genius!)
Of course, all this praise is relative. Because the story originates with a manga, it is filled with plenty of cliches and unrealistic situations (though I have to say most were addressed in fresh ways, which IMO kept the plot from feeling too stale). Also, if you've never read the manga, are a fan of the steely, independent, "take-no-crap" female archetype, or think that persistent guys are a turn off, then you may be annoyed by the entire story setup. However, if you can get past these issues, you may find yourself identifying with Junko far more than you'd expect. Recommended!!!
ROMANCE RATING * * * 6/10
Despite some mildly exciting moments and upper body fanservice (courtesy of Takane's waterfall scenes), I am sad to report that the actual romantic contact in this show is woefully limited, and features only 1 kiss scene for the main couple. I wish I could say that that kiss was a smoking hot, R rated kiss (or at least really long), especially since fans of the original know it pulled no punches in the intimate-contact department. But alas, it is PG at best, a classic case of "much build up, little payoff" which is so common in Asian shows. But if you don't mind keeping things family friendly, then that's ok!
