Us Forever, directed by Naoko Komuro, is adapted from a novel by Misumi Kubo, and it tells the story of Ichiharu Sudo (Taisuki Fujigaya). Ichiharu is a young man who works as a wood furniture maker, specializing in chairs, and he lives alone despite having a mother and grandfather. With a closed personality, Ichiharu frequently sleeps with different women, not attaching any emotions to them. It seems almost impossible for him to open his heart to anyone.
On the other hand, there is Sakurako Motohashi (Nao), an innocent girl who works as a marketing team member at a company. Due to her naïve nature, Sakurako has difficulties with love. She had an unfaithful boyfriend who cheated on her because she hoped for a marriage proposal. Feeling frustrated and emotional about her situation, Sakurako confides in her friend Ayame Mizusawa (Miho Kanazawa) at a wedding party they attend.
In a drunken state, Sakurako expresses her emotions aloud and leaves the party to get some air. There, she spots Ichiharu, also quite intoxicated, sitting on a bench. They strike up a conversation and talk for a while, connecting despite their differences. Ichiharu invites Sakurako to his apartment, and they drink and continue to talk into the early morning. When she wakes up, Sakurako hurriedly leaves his apartment.
Days later, Sakurako is asked to handle a furniture exhibition project where she has to work with Ichiharu, who doesn’t recognize her at first. However, he eventually remembers her, and their meetings become more frequent. Ichiharu starts to show interest in Sakurako and admires her positive attitude. Sakurako feels the same way, and they set a date to meet up again, but it’s the one day of the year that Ichiharu avoids – December 10th.
Finally, after much hesitation, Ichiharu agrees to meet with her on that day. They talk about the exhibit, but the conversation leads to love and marriage. Then, Ichiharu suddenly clutches his throat and loses his voice. Sakurako is shocked, but Ichiharu explains that this happens to him every December 10th.
The story then unfolds, showing Ichiharu’s childhood memory with his first love, and why he’s been keeping his heart closed. Sakurako is hesitant to pursue Ichiharu because she doesn’t want to force him to open up, but she does want to understand him. Along with his friend Yuta’s (Koichi Goseki) help, she sets out to uncover Ichiharu’s past trauma, and gradually, Ichiharu begins to open up to her.
Us Forever tells a simple yet heartwarming love story that we can all relate to. Even though we might predict what will happen, the drama still captivates us into wanting to know more. With short episodes, the show is an excellent choice to watch if you’re looking for something light but meaningful.
Conclusion
Us Forever is a romantic drama that tells the story of Ichiharu Sudo, a man with a closed personality, and Sakurako Motohashi, a girl who falls in love with him. It’s a sweet love story that explores the idea of healing past traumas and learning to love again. Both Ichiharu and Sakurako have their fears and insecurities, but they learn to overcome them together.
Directed by Naoko Komuro and starring Taisuke Fujigaya and Nao, Us Forever is a beautiful drama that will make you laugh, cry, and feel happy. With unique characters and an excellent storyline, it’s a show that will keep you entertained from start to finish. If you’re looking for a quick yet meaningful drama to watch, then Us Forever is an excellent choice.
