MM Exploration

“An Incurable Case of Love” (Japanese title: “Koi wa Tsuzuku yo Doko Made mo”) is a Japanese romantic drama that aired in 2020, based on the manga by Maki Enjōji. The story follows Nanase Sakura, played by Mone Kamishiraishi, a young woman who becomes a nurse after being inspired by a heroic doctor, Kairi Tendo, played by Takeru Satoh, whom she meets in a chance encounter five years prior. Motivated by her admiration for him, she dreams of working alongside him and eventually confesses her love when she finally reunites with him at the hospital where she is hired.

However, Dr. Tendo, known as “The Devil” due to his strict and cold demeanor, initially rejects her confession and shows little interest in her. Despite his harsh exterior, Nanase remains determined, earning the nickname “Heroic Rookie” for her perseverance. As she works closely with Dr. Tendo, their relationship gradually evolves. Dr. Tendo begins to soften, revealing the emotional barriers he has built due to his past experiences and the pressures of his job.

Throughout the series, Nanase grows both professionally and personally, gaining respect from her colleagues and confidence in her abilities as a nurse. The drama explores themes of perseverance, personal growth, and the complexities of love, blending humor with the emotional challenges of the medical profession. Over time, Dr. Tendo learns to open up and embrace his feelings, leading to a romantic and heartfelt resolution between him and Nanase. “An Incurable Case of Love” is a heartwarming tale of love, determination, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of a busy hospital.

“An Incurable Case of Love” is not a drama for those seeking action-packed scenes. Instead, it’s perfect for fans of romantic comedies who enjoy a blend of light-hearted humor and heartfelt moments. The show is filled with charmingly awkward and sometimes embarrassing situations that add to its comedic appeal. It focuses heavily on the development and growth of its characters, particularly as they navigate the personal and professional changes in their lives. This drama is ideal for viewers who appreciate a story centered on love, personal growth, and the journey of two people learning to open up to each other.

Besides the romantic drama, what caught my attention was the various themes that seemed to develop throughout the show:

Themes

• Perseverance: Nanase’s unwavering dedication to both her career and her love for Dr. Tendo highlights the theme of perseverance. Despite numerous setbacks, she remains committed to her goals.
• Personal Growth: Both Nanase and Dr. Tendo undergo significant personal growth throughout the series. Nanase matures as a nurse, gaining confidence and skills, while Dr. Tendo learns to lower his defenses and embrace his emotions.
• The Complexity of Love: The drama explores the multifaceted nature of love, including unrequited love, the challenges of loving someone with emotional baggage, and the transformative power of love.
• The Medical Profession: The series provides a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of working in the medical field, portraying the pressures faced by healthcare professionals and the importance of teamwork and empathy.

This show features several heartfelt scenes that capture the emotional depth and growth of its characters. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Nanase’s Confession: Early in the series, Nanase boldly confesses her love to Dr. Tendo after finally meeting him again at the hospital. Despite knowing his reputation as “The Devil,” her earnest and sincere confession is a touching moment that showcases her courage and the depth of her feelings. Although Dr. Tendo initially rejects her, the scene marks the beginning of their complicated relationship and sets the stage for the emotional journey ahead.
2. Dr. Tendo’s Vulnerability: As the series progresses, viewers get glimpses of Dr. Tendo’s vulnerable side. One particularly moving scene occurs when he finally opens up to Nanase about the emotional burden he carries from his past. This moment is significant because it reveals the reasons behind his cold demeanor and shows that beneath his tough exterior, he is someone who has been deeply hurt and is afraid of getting close to others.
3. Nanase Comforting Dr. Tendo: In a tender scene, Nanase comforts Dr. Tendo during a particularly stressful time at the hospital. As he grapples with the pressure and responsibility of his job, Nanase’s quiet support and presence provide him with the comfort he didn’t realize he needed. This moment is pivotal in their relationship, as it shows how much they have come to rely on each other.
4. The First Kiss: The first kiss between Nanase and Dr. Tendo is a culmination of the tension and affection that has been building between them. It’s a sweet and emotional moment that marks a turning point in their relationship. The kiss is not just a romantic gesture but also a sign of Dr. Tendo finally allowing himself to be vulnerable and reciprocate Nanase’s feelings.
5. Nanase’s Growth as a Nurse: Another heartfelt aspect of the show is Nanase’s journey in becoming a competent and confident nurse. There are several scenes where her compassion and dedication shine through, such as when she successfully handles a difficult patient or supports a colleague. These moments highlight her growth and the respect she earns from her peers, making her character development deeply satisfying to watch.
6. Dr. Tendo’s Confession: Towards the end of the series, Dr. Tendo finally confesses his feelings for Nanase in a heartfelt and genuine way. After all the ups and downs in their relationship, this confession is a beautiful moment that brings their story full circle. It’s a scene that emphasizes how much both characters have grown and how they’ve helped each other become better versions of themselves.

These scenes are just a few examples of the many touching moments in “An Incurable Case of Love.” The drama is filled with emotional highs and lows that make it a rewarding watch for those who enjoy character-driven stories.

This is a short drama series consisting of only 10 episodes, but there are already talks about a second season coming soon.

You can watch this show on Netflix or on an Asian TV show app called Viki Rakuten. Let me know what you think!

Next week I’ll be taking a dive into Turkey to watch a Turkish drama:

This drama tells the story of a young woman who endures years of abuse and captivity at the hands of her cruel husband. Desperate for freedom and to protect her son, she seizes an opportunity to escape. Along the way, she encounters a compassionate man who becomes her ally, risking everything to help her find safety and reclaim her life. The drama is intense, exploring themes of resilience, love, and the struggle for justice against overwhelming odds. It’s a powerful narrative of survival, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

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