At 25:00 in Akasaka by Hiroko Natsuno

[reviews_and_ramblings]

The award-winning Boys' Love manga about actors "researching" a relationship is finally available in English print—and don't miss the live-action adaptation!

Yuki Shirasaki finally landed his big break. But the pressure is on when he’s cast alongside current superstar (and his former classmate!) Asami Hayama. Determined to do his best, Shirasaki decides to dive deep into researching playing the role of a gay man and visits a gay bar for a one-night stand. To his surprise, Hayama is there and gives Shirasaki the shock of his life by suggesting they become friends with benefits! Can Shirasaki keep his attention on the role, or will he be captivated by Hayama’s good looks and irresistible charm?

My Rate: 8 (amzn.to/48FBWvN)

I've just finished what is hands-down my favorite drama of 2024, and I'm already deep into the source material. If you're looking for a series that manages to be simultaneously very sexy and incredibly sweet, you need to check this out. I'm currently on an endless re-run of the final episode—it's that good. However, as is often the case, the drama and the original manga offer two different, though equally compelling, experiences. The drama adaptation is a masterclass in condensed storytelling. They essentially took four manga volumes and distilled them into one series, resulting in a fast-paced narrative. While all the essential plot points are present, the major difference is in the character focus. Hayama: He remains the intense, brooding character we love to hate and then just love. My initial frustration was purely logistical: Why can't he just be clear about his unrequited feelings for Shirasaki? But, of course, that internal struggle is the entire emotional core of the story, and by the end, I was completely invested, cheering for Shirasaki to finally understand his silent devotion. Side Characters: Honestly, they're practically an afterthought here—mostly just a collection of goofy background characters meant to frame the leads. If you enjoyed the drama, the manga will give you a much richer, and let's be frank, way sexier experience. Plot Pacing: The time events are structured differently, allowing for a slower, more deliberate buildup. The Spice Factor: The sex scenes are chef's kiss well done, and they start right from Chapter 1! But don't mistake this for pure smut. The intimate moments are handled maturely and are balanced with significant character and plot development. It proves that a story can be explicit while still being deeply emotional. Side Characters: This is perhaps the biggest difference. The side characters in the manga are given their own personalities and compelling arcs, making the overall world feel much richer and more interesting. Art: The graphic quality is top-notch. Every panel is a feast for the eyes. My Verdict: Read Both! If you're looking for sweet drama and immediate payoff, start with the series. But if you want a deeper dive into the characters, a more robust plot, and genuinely sexy and well-integrated intimate scenes, the manga is a must-read. Both are fantastic, but the drama is a great gateway to the truly excellent source material.