Once again, I have to wonder about what the make-up of Japanese TV programming has to look like. Last time I brought this up, you lunatics said that there were still a fair number of live-action soaps and dramas in addition to all the game and reality shows. Watching this, though, I have to say I still think there’s got to be some sort of give-and-take going on, because KOKORO CONNECT is maybe a brush stroke or two away from playing exactly like a CW show - - and I imagine it fills the same space.
I don’t say that as a slam. This was a very fun opening episode, with engaging dialog and appealing characters. However, it’s still a talking heads show, and the “supernatural” portion still feels about as far out as the sort of dare-based, comedy-of-errors plot that you might’ve found on some SAVED BY THE BELL episode. Yes, animation is a medium that can handle all sorts of themes and subjects. However, considering how much easier it would’ve been to have just filmed this in one or two sets with real actors, you’ve got to wonder what outside practicalities might have spurred this creative choice.
Anyway…
The hook of this episode did appeal to me. When you’ve watched however many hundreds of these larger-than-life shows, you start thinking about all the sort of small, “in-between” scene that must be logically happening off-screen. You know, when the mom and daughter swap bodies in FREAKY FRIDAY, how long can they really manage to keep their situation a secret? To make another comparison, this actually felt like a good talent show skit by kids with similar inspirational - - a light and focused parody on flick that makes a few jabs at the student paper staff for good measure.
Don’t know if I’ll stick with this - - as entertaining as it was. Just wanted to check it out since it’s one of the new series this season. I’ll go on, pat it on the head and leave it where it is.
Watch this episode, " A Story that had Already Begun before Anyone Realized It” here and decide for yourself.
Tom Pinchuk’s a writer and personality with a large number of comics, videos and features like this to his credit. Visit his website - - tompinchuk.com - - and follow his Twitter: @tompinchuk
