There are very few dramas that I am able to watch the entire way through – especially moreso when it comes to dramas that are based off of a ready existing series. However, Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge is an exception to the rule. When I watched the first episode of the series I was a bit distraught at the changes that the directors had made to the actual manga. I was not disappointed though, and can say with certainty that I like the drama better than the original series.

Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge (Perfect Girl Evolution) is a Japanese drama that aired in Japan from January 15, 2010 to March 19, 2010.  The premise of the story is simple, and varies a bit from the original. Nakahara Sunako (Oomasa Aya) is a college-aged shut-in who lives alone with her only friends – her anatomical models. Through some events, she goes to live at her Aunt’s, Nakahara Mine (Rakashima Reiko), mansion where four amazingly gorgeous college guys -  Takano Kyohei (Kamenashi Kazuya), Toyama Yukinojo (Tegoshi Yuya), Toyama Yukinojo (Uchi Hiroki) and Morii Ranmaru (Miyao Shuntaro) – live as borders. As Mine is always absent, the landlord leaves her son and Sunako’s younger cousin, Nakahara Takeru (Kato Seishiro), in charge of things. Mine offers the four men residing in her mansion a deal, that if they are able to turn the shut-in Sunako into a real lady then all their rent would be free. Really taking this incentive to heart is Kyohei, who is the most money-struck of the four and is always having trouble holding down jobs due to sexual harassment due to his good looks. The series follows the adventures of the group as they struggle to grow as people and as friends and try to discover what a “real lady” really is.

Personally, I loved this drama. Sunako is a heroine unlike many others. Oomasa Aya plays the role of the shy and secluded girl wonderfully and Kamenashi Kazuya compliments her role as Kyouhei better than expected. Kazuya’s acting is superb as he struggles between his feelings and his desire to deny them. The depths of emotions that Kazuya portrays is nothing short but amazing. His acting was not cheesy in the least and you felt so much for his character. Also playing a great role in the drama is Kato Seishiro. I’ve first noticed this kid before when he played in Ninkyo Helper as Hatori Ryota and was pretty impressed then as well. Honestly, I can see him going to great places because his acting is awesome, especially for someone his age. I’m excited to see how he grows up as an actor. Overall, this drama is a must see recommendation of mine.