Name: Yamada Taro Monogatari
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year: 2007
Rating: Must See
Based on the manga Yamada Taro Monogatari by Ai Morinaga. The story follows the lives of Taro and his extremely poor family. With the father no where to be found, a weak mother who cannot work but loves to spend and six other siblings, Taro has to work to support his family as well as keep up with his studies and daily life. Despite being penniless Taro is a smart, athletic, kind hearted and with the looks of a prince that wins the heart of any girl he meets. While attending a prestigious high school through a scholarship the surrounding girls are soon given the impression that he is wealthy, furthermore with his killer smile no student can resist his charms especially Ikegami Takako who is seeking a rich groom. Also attending this school is Mimura Takuya who is also attractive but unlike Taro is actually overflowing with money. Played by the two Arashi members Ninomiya Kazunari (Taro) and Sakurai Sho (Mimura), the story contrasts the two characters as each influences another.
Similar to Hana Yori Dango this is another great example of how a series involving rich Bishonen characters living out their school lives continues to gain interest amongst viewers. The lives of the rich are certainly interesting however this story shows the other side of wealth status. Even though being extremely poor, Taro gives the impression that he is wealthy without even trying and thats what makes this series quite enjoyable to watch. However its quite hard to imagine Taro’s situation to be realistic in any kind of way. First of all its amazing that Taro is able to top the class whilst managing to juggle several part time jobs, in addition being poor isn’t exactly anyones preference of lifestyle however Taro seems to be content just having the basics as long as he is able to keep his family smiling. Unrealistic though it may be this series has many good points in terms of a drama. Taro’s character develops as he befriends Mimura, but his kind hearted nature and selflessness makes it impossible not to wish him the best in his daily trials. Whether or not your an Arashi fan or not this is light hearted drama I wouldn’t miss.
you too sho-kun ! 
