Nakatsu's Thoughts: Episode 8
So now I'm going to try to add what I haven't added before-- screencaps! Sorry if they're blurry or not the best quality... I tried my best;)
Now we get to see the Sano that we know and love-- the overprotective jealous guy who tries to be Mizuki's "otousan" at all costs. Mizuki is blissfully unaware of her surroundings, and Sano seems to have to pull her back to reality. They're starting to work as a team together with their slowly blossoming romance. Nakatsu, however, has left Komari and decides to dedicate his full attention to Mizuki. What will happen??
Last Episode:
- We were left with Nakatsu begging Mizuki to stay at Osaka Gakuen. However, she is not listening to him and is not paying attention. However, a few choice words from Sano were all that it took to change her mind. It is sad in a way because Nakatsu is considered to be such a special friend to Mizuki, but he couldn't keep her in Japan-- only Sano has that special power. This episode, though, provided me with lots of grinning moments concerning Nakatsu that made Sano jealous ;)
Nakatsu and Mizuki... is Mizuki "homo" too??
- Mizuki writes a letter to her family, begging them to let her stay in Japan. Her teacher wondered why she was praying at the mailbox as if it were a shrine!
- Mizuki then runs into Nakatsu, where his "I'm in love" music starts turning on. He confronts her about the night before, and Mizuki thanks Nakatsu for asking her to stay.
- Nakatsu didn't expect this sudden compliment, so he comically spits out the water he was drinking. He probably didn't realize how much of an impact his words made on Mizuki. However, even though Mizuki thanked him, I don't think his words really did much for her. I'm being pessimistic though. I'm glad that she at least tries to understand what a great friend he has been. Sometimes I think she takes him for granted.
- Mizuki of course is blissfully unaware of her effect on him. Quite the oblivious person this girl is, because Nakatsu is quite obvious!
- Just wanted to add another angle of the spittage;) Mizuki mentions how much she needs him too, which causes him to spit out his drink again.
- He assumes that by her words that she realizes his feelings for her. Of course, he overestimates her. He's about to confess to her, since he figures that she's already figured it out, but then she adds the sting by saying that they are great friends, and nothing more. Man, I cringed when I first heard those words.
- The moment I capped is the moment where he had this shock on his face before he corrected himself and tried to be upbeat again. I like these short glimpses past his protective barrier of silliness, where we get to see the true Nakatsu underneath who suffers like normal people and feels emotional pain like others do. He picks himself up from this conversation, like the many other painful ones that he has with Mizuki, but we find that it gets more difficult for him to live under this ruse of not openly loving her. It's sad when we notice how it hurts him, but he never would admit to it.
Entering the classroom
- We see a bit of "Sano vision" as Mizuki and Nakatsu enter the classroom with Nakatsu's arm around Mizuki's shoulders. However, we can tell which place Sano is focusing on--
sorry for the blurriness-- best cap I have
- Sano's facial expressions become a lot more obvious as we can clearly tell that he does not like Nakatsu putting his arm around her shoulders. He becomes incredibly protective of her and we know where his true intentions lie.
cute moment ;)
jealous Sano
- Mizuki approaches Sano's desk without really realizing what's going on. Sano's rude and grumpy to her because of his obvious jealousy, but she doesn't notice at all. She asks him what's wrong and even asks him if he was on his period...!
Sano's funny reaction. He pretends he doesn't care, but we can see on his face that he really does.
- I wonder if Sano even considers Nakatsu a worthy adversary for Mizuki's affections. Because Sano likes to move at his own pace. I suppose his affections for her are only beginning to grow now, which seems sad because Nakatsu seems so much more wholly devoted to Mizuki. Feelings and emotions are such fickle things, aren't they?
- Mizuki thanks Sano for making her stay, with a dreamy grin on her face. This thank you was different from the one she gave Nakatsu because she is facing Sano's back when she says this quietly, with no intention of him hearing. Instead of the quick, breezy thanks that she gave Nakatsu, we could tell that this particular thanks came from deep within her heart.
Introduction to the An-An photoshoot
- Akiha runs over Umeda with her truck. They talk about Akiha's new photoshoot that she's doing for this magazine, because after she photographed Sano doing high jump, she has fulfilled her wishes and moved on to this magazine. I wonder sometimes what's going on between those two.
- Akiha runs into the cafeteria, which seems to be the common place where the activity of the episode seems to be announced. She wants the boys of Osaka Gakuen to be featured as models on the magazine! But there is one catch-- she has already chosen the only four models that she wants to photograph.
And here they are:
- Sano agrees to model, but only because Mizuki is doing it. He's probably going with the idea that he wants to protect her. He asks her what would happen if she had to pose nude. But we know one big reason is that if he didn't go, Nakatsu and Mizuki would be there together without him. And we know what could happen next--
An arm around the shoulders! Oh no! (Kayashima looks funny behind them)
- It's amazing how Mizuki can get Sano to participate in things which he previously never had any interest. Even though it is blatant to the audience what Sano is thinking, Mizuki doesn't notice, and Nakatsu smiles in relief and happiness that Sano finally decided to take place in part of the fun.
It's nice that he can still feel genuine happiness for his friends without his feelings for Mizuki getting in the way.
PS: Look, it's Noe! Behind Nakatsu!
Sano and Mizuki's room
- Sano's already awake getting his last things together for the An-An photoshoot that day. He goes to wake up Mizuki but finds her sleeping with her belly exposed. He pauses for a moment at this unexpected view of her skin when Nakatsu bursts in asking if they're ready to go. Sano breaks out of his spell and kicks the comforter to cover Mizuki's stomach (probably to keep Nakatsu from seeing it) and slaps her on the face, waking her up. Nakatsu is completely oblivious to this situation, not noticing what Sano was thinking or saw.
- I think with Nakatsu, even if he does understand what is going on or what people are thinking, he feigns ignorance and moves on as if everything is normal. The only person who I think he cannot do this with is Mizuki, because he seems to not be able to control his emotions and feelings around her, and tries everything in his power to be close to her emotionally and physically.
Individual interviews...?
- Sawatari announces that the principal wanted to interview each of them individually for something "important". The boys figure that it's not a big deal, but he leaves the impression that it actually is. The boys try to figure out what exactly is so important that the principal wants to interview every single one of them.
I had to add this cap, I thought it was hilarious! And the guy behind them looking at his hands... XD
And the models enter the studio...
- I kept wondering why Akiha had no support staff/crew with her when she was taking pictures. But since it's a jdrama, I tried to put that thought outside of my head. EDIT: Okay, I think I saw one guy...
- Nakatsu and Mizuki find old Shakespearean costumes on a rack nearby. Nakatsu grabs the Romeo costume and Mizuki Juliet. They call out to each other... until Sano pushes Nakatsu aside by shoving his face back, and Mizuki complies and puts the costume away.
"Romeo and Juliet" in Nakatsu vision
rejected.
- Nakatsu calls after his Juliet, only to get slapped over the head by Nanba and telling him to calm down. In this fantasy state is probably the only way that Nakatsu can get close to Mizuki, so when he has to return to reality, it kinda sucks.
- They search through more racks and Nakatsu spots a frilly girly blouse for Mizuki to wear. She says that it's cute and thinks about trying it on. Sano, afraid of her revealing her identity, hands her a black button up shirt for her to wear that she calls plain. He insists, because it is a manly shirt. Nakatsu fights with Sano, wanting to see Mizuki dressed up as a girl more. Nanba wants them to make a choice, and it is clear whose suggestion Mizuki is going to take.
- Akiha uses unconvential methods to take pictures of them, like making Nanba scream and then laugh really loud. Mizuki is next with her black button up shirt. She's a little stiff, so Akiha asks Mizuki if there's anyone she likes, then tells Mizuki to think about that person. Mizuki glances off to where Sano is, directly behind Nakatsu, playing with a mannequin. Nakatsu mistakes these glances to indicate that she means him. Which is more hopeful thinking than reality.
the boys' "I'm infatuated with Mizuki" looks
- Nakatsu begs to have pictures taken with Mizuki. Akiha reluctantly agrees. It seems like Nakatsu tries to take a physical proximity to Mizuki in an attempt to have the same emotional proximity that Sano has to Mizuki's heart. Of course it is a physical draw like a magnet that he attaches himself to her, but he doesn't seem to mind that Sano's in the background. Does Nakatsu deem Sano a worthy adversary...? Most likely so.
kawaii!!
- Sano watches intently and screws up a mannequin in the process. Nanba spots Sano and asks him what's wrong. I wonder if in the drama version of the story Nanba has any idea early on of Sano and Nakatsu's feelings for Mizuki. There's a lot of times when Nanba knows more than he lets on.
Getting rid of the bad ones...?
- Oscar and Dorm 3 overhear Sawatari talking on the phone with the principal. He talks about the interviews being a screening process and keeping the good ones while getting rid of the bad ones. Dorm 3 runs off to tell the news to the others.
Back to modeling
- Sano goes up to pose. Akiha tells him to show his true self, he almost walks away, she calls him a coward, and he returns. Nakatsu and Mizuki are sitting next to each other watching Sano. Mizuki mutters "kakkoi" with an infatuated expression on her face, and we see Nakatsu getting a dose of reality, little by little. Denial about everyone's true feelings for each other cannot remain for long.
The look on Nakatsu's face breaks my heart, because I know he understands what is truly going on.
The school's closing down?
- Oscar and Dorm 3 runs back with the news, and the others take this overheard conversation to mean that Osaka Gakuen is closing down, and they are only keeping the "good ones" out of all of them, judging them through the interview. The 2 dorm heads lead their dorms to emergency strategy meetings, while Dorm 2 is without their head, Nanba senpai. They really need him to unite their dorm together.
Nakatsu confronts Sano
- I think it's great how Nakatsu is not afraid to speak what's on his mind and is willing to confront others if he's wondering about something or has a problem with them. It takes a lot of strength of character to be able to communicate with people openly instead of talking about them behind their backs. His open honesty is definitely a big reason why I love Nakatsu so much. He's unassuming, a great friend, and would never sabotage others. He's unselfish and would sacrifice himself for his friends. He will also let you know if you do anything wrong. He wants to know Sano's true feelings about Mizuki for sure, and so directly asks him about it.
Nakatsu asking Sano if he's willing to accept men. Sano disappears on him as his back is turned.
Interview practice
- Tennouji practices his individual interview with his dorm, trying to withhold his anger with them because Kanna is watching. However, he can't control himself and lashes out at them.
- Oscar seems to think that dance will impress them, so he dances. Hibari for some reason shows up and says that he lacks passion and they dance together. They're not rivals in this drama, I suppose.
To the cafeteria with an overprotective Sano
- They all go off to eat, and Mizuki takes off her outer shirt, leaving a sleeveless shirt on underneath. Sano tells her to cover herself up and mind her surroundings, and Mizuki calls him an "otousan". It's pretty funny because Sano seems to dwell on this afterwards for a little while, showing that he does care about what she says to him.
- When Nanba returns, Dorm 2 tramples him. They reveal that the school is going to close down, and the four models are in shock.
Umeda and Akiha
- Akiha arrives with her finished product-- the An-An magazine with Sano, Mizuki, Nakatsu, and Nanba's pictures inside. Akiha threatens to kiss him if he doesn't open it up.
- The magazine's out in stores by the way, so you can grab yourself a copy if you want.
- Umeda says that he likes her candid photos of them better than when they're posing. Akiha pretends to not care, but we can tell she took his words to heart.
Dorm 2's strategy
- Nanba decides that they should try to raise money for a relief fund. He's doing it halfheartedly though because, as Nakao and Kazuma point out, Nanba believes that he can still be a model even if the school closes down.
- Nakatsu and Mizuki run into Kagurazaka, and Nakatsu is of course mean to him, trying to protect Sano. Mizuki calms him down and explains that he's actually a good guy. Nakatsu tells him to prove it by donating money. So Kagurazaka does. Nakatsu is surprised and offers to shine his shoes. Then a bunch of girls rush in and ask for Mizuki's autograph on their An-An magazines.
cute Nakatsu/Kagurazaka moment
- Nakatsu explains to Kagurazaka that they were models in a magazine, and mentions that Sano was a model for it too. Kagurazaka was shocked, and went to check out the magazine for himself.
- Kagurazaka's sitting on a bench reading the magazine and Hibari, determined to not share Sano's beauty with the world, sits by his side to take the magazine from him and ends up falling in love with him instead.
- Nakatsu points out that Sano is not even helping them raise money, thinking that he doesn't care enough to save the school. Mizuki tries to defend him by saying that he needs to practice. They then muse about being separated from each other. Nakatsu reassures her not to worry about it, and remains positive that they will do well.
- I love the conversations they have with each other because they're so genuine and heartfelt, and they have such an open affection towards each other. It's too bad that Mizuki has no romantic intentions, because they would make a great couple. I guess I almost always root for the underdog.
Mizuki runs into Io
- Nakatsu disappears and Mizuki has a chat with Io. Io explains that Mizuki shouldn't have to worry about being with Sano or not if the school closes because their feelings for each other would bind them together, regardless of location.
- We hear about a cute side of Nanba Minami as Io reveals that he asked her to hire all of them if the school ever closes, showing his close alliance to the school. He really is a great leader with his group, and even if he seems immature, people are naturally drawn to him. I can definitely see why he's been a dorm leader for so long.
Results of their efforts
- The most money these boys collected was the money that Kagurazaka gave them. Nakatsu called Sekime "Issekinichou" or something like that and asked how much he collected. They pretty much failed. Sekime once again reminded Nakatsu of his actual name. I wonder how they came up with the idea of this running gag-- if it was to see how quickly Toma thought on his feet of a new nickname for Sekime...?
Nakatsu confronts Sano again
- Nakatsu asks Sano why he didn't help out to raise the money. Sano doesn't give a satisfactory answer, and then wonders if Sano even cares. He asked Sano if all he cares about is high jump, and Sano replied "what if it is?" Nakatsu answers "unforgiveable". This is an excellent scene because it demonstrates the vast difference of personalities between these two boys. Nakatsu cannot understand why Sano keeps to himself and refuses to reach out to others. He points out that the others have been supporting him for so long, and Sano can't go off alone anymore. Mizuki has been picking up his slack, and Nakatsu feels that Sano should be pulling his own weight with the group. Sano has probably all along only thought of himself, and realizes that Mizuki has been drawn into this as well. It's nice to have Nakatsu point out important things that Sano is missing without Mizuki blindly protecting him. Nakatsu's straightforward thinking makes him such an amazing person, but I've mentioned that before.
I was trying to squint and figure out who were in those pictures behind him. Sano and Mizuki, I'm assuming.
can you tell that I really like the serious scenes?
- Nakatsu is unafraid to speak up to Sano while everyone else is too afraid to say anything. Sano begins to realize the implications of his actions while Mizuki barges into the room, disturbing their argument. Mizuki wonders what's wrong and Nakatsu and Sano stalk off in opposite directions.
At night
- Sano stares at Mizuki looking out through the window at the moonlight. I like how the lighting was done in this scene, and giving the implication of Sano watching silently over her shoulder, protecting her, as she goes through her days.
Group picture!
- Dorm 2 discusses the closure of the school. Kayashima mentions that they should make good memories to remember this school by. They look at the An-An magazine, and Mizuki gets the idea to gather the whole school together to take a group picture. She persuades the dorm leaders to stay and Akiha to take their picture.
You can just see the look of love on Nakatsu's face as Mizuki convinces everyone to stay to take the picture together.
- They ask where Sano is, and Mizuki becomes determined to bring him over, even though he's never joined them. Nakatsu looks worried because he's afraid that his argument with Sano would prevent him from coming. I think over everything, he yells at Sano out of love, because he wants to see him fit in with the group, smile, and have fun with everyone else. It's like with Kayashima-- he will help out his friends and be there for them no matter what.
- Mizuki miraculously convinces Sano to come, assuring him that she'll support him, and that he truly does care about his friends. Nakatsu glances around anxiously in his seat, wondering if he's actually going to come.
- Nakatsu and the others look in amazement at Sano having actually arrived. Nakatsu breaks the tension by jokingly chiding him for being late, and telling him to hurry and sit down. I think it's hard for Nakatsu when his hot head gets him into arguments, and he feels helpless to resolve the situation. He really needed Mizuki to bring Sano over, because Nakatsu is sure to be just as worried about him. So when he showed up, the feelings of the fight were seemingly over, and they relaxed to take the group picture.
I love the little supporting grins they gave each other.
- They finally gather together and sit down for the full group picture. They goof off and act naturally, and Akiha takes the pictures that she's best at doing.
so cute
Nakatsu notices Mizuki staring at Sano, then...
*glomp*
- Umeda delivers the pictures to Sawatari, who comments on how happy they all are. The principal phones, and he tells her that the individual interviews will not be necessary, that it looks like they all love this school. And the instructions were to throw out the bad coffee beans and keep the good ones, and the interviews were to just judge the satisfaction with the school. Of course, another misunderstanding!
A challenge
- The boys find out that the school is not closing down and gather together to celebrate. Nakatsu looks back at Sano sitting alone, watching Mizuki celebrate with the others. He walks over to him.
He first comments on how happy he is that the school isn't closing. Then...
- He says that he can't hold it in anymore. He likes Mizuki and he's not going to lose. Nakatsu acknowledges Sano's feelings towards Mizuki and accepts his own (finally), openly challenging Sano in a competition to win Mizuki's affections.
I challenge you!
- Nakatsu runs back to cheer with Mizuki while Sano contemplates on what to do. Things should definitely get interesting.
This episode overall was light as usual, and fluffier from the last episode that was more serious and angsty. It shows how silly Sano could be, and he starts to show how protective he is over Mizuki like the manga version of him does. I like how he's slowly softening to those around him thanks in large part to Mizuki and Nakatsu. It's nice how they can all positively impact each other, because from what I remember in the manga, it was mostly Mizuki who "saved" Sano, so it's nice to see all three of them help each other out so much. They realize now that they are love rivals, and unassuming Mizuki gets herself in the middle of a love triangle that makes up this story.
Next episode:
- Inagaki Goro guest stars as the sensei who accuses Nakatsu of cheating. My favorite manga arc EVER, by the way! This moment just determined in my mind why I love Nakatsu so much, and why he is my favorite manga character. It looks lightened up a little by others in cosplay and screwing around, so we'll see how deep and serious this episode actually goes. But I'm so glad this part is mentioned in the drama. Much love. This next one may end up being my new favorite episode...?
Sorry if this post is long! I may have gone a tad too screencap-happy :) But please feel free to leave comments. Thanks for reading!!! Oh and sorry again for the fuzzy screencaps >_<
PS: I looked up Ikuta Toma on YouTube for the first time since the Hana Kimi boom, and now there's so many more videos/fan stuff on him! Wow!!!
PPS: The final episode of Hana Kimi is going to be 2 hours long!!! So I guess they really are going to wrap up the story in one season :D How exciting, I wonder what the directors and scriptwriters decide to do!!
Now we get to see the Sano that we know and love-- the overprotective jealous guy who tries to be Mizuki's "otousan" at all costs. Mizuki is blissfully unaware of her surroundings, and Sano seems to have to pull her back to reality. They're starting to work as a team together with their slowly blossoming romance. Nakatsu, however, has left Komari and decides to dedicate his full attention to Mizuki. What will happen??
Last Episode:
- We were left with Nakatsu begging Mizuki to stay at Osaka Gakuen. However, she is not listening to him and is not paying attention. However, a few choice words from Sano were all that it took to change her mind. It is sad in a way because Nakatsu is considered to be such a special friend to Mizuki, but he couldn't keep her in Japan-- only Sano has that special power. This episode, though, provided me with lots of grinning moments concerning Nakatsu that made Sano jealous ;)
Nakatsu and Mizuki... is Mizuki "homo" too??
- Mizuki writes a letter to her family, begging them to let her stay in Japan. Her teacher wondered why she was praying at the mailbox as if it were a shrine!
- Mizuki then runs into Nakatsu, where his "I'm in love" music starts turning on. He confronts her about the night before, and Mizuki thanks Nakatsu for asking her to stay.
- Nakatsu didn't expect this sudden compliment, so he comically spits out the water he was drinking. He probably didn't realize how much of an impact his words made on Mizuki. However, even though Mizuki thanked him, I don't think his words really did much for her. I'm being pessimistic though. I'm glad that she at least tries to understand what a great friend he has been. Sometimes I think she takes him for granted.
- Mizuki of course is blissfully unaware of her effect on him. Quite the oblivious person this girl is, because Nakatsu is quite obvious!
- Just wanted to add another angle of the spittage;) Mizuki mentions how much she needs him too, which causes him to spit out his drink again.
- He assumes that by her words that she realizes his feelings for her. Of course, he overestimates her. He's about to confess to her, since he figures that she's already figured it out, but then she adds the sting by saying that they are great friends, and nothing more. Man, I cringed when I first heard those words.
- The moment I capped is the moment where he had this shock on his face before he corrected himself and tried to be upbeat again. I like these short glimpses past his protective barrier of silliness, where we get to see the true Nakatsu underneath who suffers like normal people and feels emotional pain like others do. He picks himself up from this conversation, like the many other painful ones that he has with Mizuki, but we find that it gets more difficult for him to live under this ruse of not openly loving her. It's sad when we notice how it hurts him, but he never would admit to it.
Entering the classroom
- We see a bit of "Sano vision" as Mizuki and Nakatsu enter the classroom with Nakatsu's arm around Mizuki's shoulders. However, we can tell which place Sano is focusing on--
sorry for the blurriness-- best cap I have
- Sano's facial expressions become a lot more obvious as we can clearly tell that he does not like Nakatsu putting his arm around her shoulders. He becomes incredibly protective of her and we know where his true intentions lie.
cute moment ;)
jealous Sano
- Mizuki approaches Sano's desk without really realizing what's going on. Sano's rude and grumpy to her because of his obvious jealousy, but she doesn't notice at all. She asks him what's wrong and even asks him if he was on his period...!
Sano's funny reaction. He pretends he doesn't care, but we can see on his face that he really does.
- I wonder if Sano even considers Nakatsu a worthy adversary for Mizuki's affections. Because Sano likes to move at his own pace. I suppose his affections for her are only beginning to grow now, which seems sad because Nakatsu seems so much more wholly devoted to Mizuki. Feelings and emotions are such fickle things, aren't they?
- Mizuki thanks Sano for making her stay, with a dreamy grin on her face. This thank you was different from the one she gave Nakatsu because she is facing Sano's back when she says this quietly, with no intention of him hearing. Instead of the quick, breezy thanks that she gave Nakatsu, we could tell that this particular thanks came from deep within her heart.
Introduction to the An-An photoshoot
- Akiha runs over Umeda with her truck. They talk about Akiha's new photoshoot that she's doing for this magazine, because after she photographed Sano doing high jump, she has fulfilled her wishes and moved on to this magazine. I wonder sometimes what's going on between those two.
- Akiha runs into the cafeteria, which seems to be the common place where the activity of the episode seems to be announced. She wants the boys of Osaka Gakuen to be featured as models on the magazine! But there is one catch-- she has already chosen the only four models that she wants to photograph.
And here they are:
- Sano agrees to model, but only because Mizuki is doing it. He's probably going with the idea that he wants to protect her. He asks her what would happen if she had to pose nude. But we know one big reason is that if he didn't go, Nakatsu and Mizuki would be there together without him. And we know what could happen next--
An arm around the shoulders! Oh no! (Kayashima looks funny behind them)
- It's amazing how Mizuki can get Sano to participate in things which he previously never had any interest. Even though it is blatant to the audience what Sano is thinking, Mizuki doesn't notice, and Nakatsu smiles in relief and happiness that Sano finally decided to take place in part of the fun.
It's nice that he can still feel genuine happiness for his friends without his feelings for Mizuki getting in the way.
PS: Look, it's Noe! Behind Nakatsu!
Sano and Mizuki's room
- Sano's already awake getting his last things together for the An-An photoshoot that day. He goes to wake up Mizuki but finds her sleeping with her belly exposed. He pauses for a moment at this unexpected view of her skin when Nakatsu bursts in asking if they're ready to go. Sano breaks out of his spell and kicks the comforter to cover Mizuki's stomach (probably to keep Nakatsu from seeing it) and slaps her on the face, waking her up. Nakatsu is completely oblivious to this situation, not noticing what Sano was thinking or saw.
- I think with Nakatsu, even if he does understand what is going on or what people are thinking, he feigns ignorance and moves on as if everything is normal. The only person who I think he cannot do this with is Mizuki, because he seems to not be able to control his emotions and feelings around her, and tries everything in his power to be close to her emotionally and physically.
Individual interviews...?
- Sawatari announces that the principal wanted to interview each of them individually for something "important". The boys figure that it's not a big deal, but he leaves the impression that it actually is. The boys try to figure out what exactly is so important that the principal wants to interview every single one of them.
I had to add this cap, I thought it was hilarious! And the guy behind them looking at his hands... XD
And the models enter the studio...
- I kept wondering why Akiha had no support staff/crew with her when she was taking pictures. But since it's a jdrama, I tried to put that thought outside of my head. EDIT: Okay, I think I saw one guy...
- Nakatsu and Mizuki find old Shakespearean costumes on a rack nearby. Nakatsu grabs the Romeo costume and Mizuki Juliet. They call out to each other... until Sano pushes Nakatsu aside by shoving his face back, and Mizuki complies and puts the costume away.
"Romeo and Juliet" in Nakatsu vision
rejected.
- Nakatsu calls after his Juliet, only to get slapped over the head by Nanba and telling him to calm down. In this fantasy state is probably the only way that Nakatsu can get close to Mizuki, so when he has to return to reality, it kinda sucks.
- They search through more racks and Nakatsu spots a frilly girly blouse for Mizuki to wear. She says that it's cute and thinks about trying it on. Sano, afraid of her revealing her identity, hands her a black button up shirt for her to wear that she calls plain. He insists, because it is a manly shirt. Nakatsu fights with Sano, wanting to see Mizuki dressed up as a girl more. Nanba wants them to make a choice, and it is clear whose suggestion Mizuki is going to take.
- Akiha uses unconvential methods to take pictures of them, like making Nanba scream and then laugh really loud. Mizuki is next with her black button up shirt. She's a little stiff, so Akiha asks Mizuki if there's anyone she likes, then tells Mizuki to think about that person. Mizuki glances off to where Sano is, directly behind Nakatsu, playing with a mannequin. Nakatsu mistakes these glances to indicate that she means him. Which is more hopeful thinking than reality.
the boys' "I'm infatuated with Mizuki" looks
- Nakatsu begs to have pictures taken with Mizuki. Akiha reluctantly agrees. It seems like Nakatsu tries to take a physical proximity to Mizuki in an attempt to have the same emotional proximity that Sano has to Mizuki's heart. Of course it is a physical draw like a magnet that he attaches himself to her, but he doesn't seem to mind that Sano's in the background. Does Nakatsu deem Sano a worthy adversary...? Most likely so.
kawaii!!
- Sano watches intently and screws up a mannequin in the process. Nanba spots Sano and asks him what's wrong. I wonder if in the drama version of the story Nanba has any idea early on of Sano and Nakatsu's feelings for Mizuki. There's a lot of times when Nanba knows more than he lets on.
Getting rid of the bad ones...?
- Oscar and Dorm 3 overhear Sawatari talking on the phone with the principal. He talks about the interviews being a screening process and keeping the good ones while getting rid of the bad ones. Dorm 3 runs off to tell the news to the others.
Back to modeling
- Sano goes up to pose. Akiha tells him to show his true self, he almost walks away, she calls him a coward, and he returns. Nakatsu and Mizuki are sitting next to each other watching Sano. Mizuki mutters "kakkoi" with an infatuated expression on her face, and we see Nakatsu getting a dose of reality, little by little. Denial about everyone's true feelings for each other cannot remain for long.
The look on Nakatsu's face breaks my heart, because I know he understands what is truly going on.
The school's closing down?
- Oscar and Dorm 3 runs back with the news, and the others take this overheard conversation to mean that Osaka Gakuen is closing down, and they are only keeping the "good ones" out of all of them, judging them through the interview. The 2 dorm heads lead their dorms to emergency strategy meetings, while Dorm 2 is without their head, Nanba senpai. They really need him to unite their dorm together.
Nakatsu confronts Sano
- I think it's great how Nakatsu is not afraid to speak what's on his mind and is willing to confront others if he's wondering about something or has a problem with them. It takes a lot of strength of character to be able to communicate with people openly instead of talking about them behind their backs. His open honesty is definitely a big reason why I love Nakatsu so much. He's unassuming, a great friend, and would never sabotage others. He's unselfish and would sacrifice himself for his friends. He will also let you know if you do anything wrong. He wants to know Sano's true feelings about Mizuki for sure, and so directly asks him about it.
Nakatsu asking Sano if he's willing to accept men. Sano disappears on him as his back is turned.
Interview practice
- Tennouji practices his individual interview with his dorm, trying to withhold his anger with them because Kanna is watching. However, he can't control himself and lashes out at them.
- Oscar seems to think that dance will impress them, so he dances. Hibari for some reason shows up and says that he lacks passion and they dance together. They're not rivals in this drama, I suppose.
To the cafeteria with an overprotective Sano
- They all go off to eat, and Mizuki takes off her outer shirt, leaving a sleeveless shirt on underneath. Sano tells her to cover herself up and mind her surroundings, and Mizuki calls him an "otousan". It's pretty funny because Sano seems to dwell on this afterwards for a little while, showing that he does care about what she says to him.
- When Nanba returns, Dorm 2 tramples him. They reveal that the school is going to close down, and the four models are in shock.
Umeda and Akiha
- Akiha arrives with her finished product-- the An-An magazine with Sano, Mizuki, Nakatsu, and Nanba's pictures inside. Akiha threatens to kiss him if he doesn't open it up.
- The magazine's out in stores by the way, so you can grab yourself a copy if you want.
- Umeda says that he likes her candid photos of them better than when they're posing. Akiha pretends to not care, but we can tell she took his words to heart.
Dorm 2's strategy
- Nanba decides that they should try to raise money for a relief fund. He's doing it halfheartedly though because, as Nakao and Kazuma point out, Nanba believes that he can still be a model even if the school closes down.
- Nakatsu and Mizuki run into Kagurazaka, and Nakatsu is of course mean to him, trying to protect Sano. Mizuki calms him down and explains that he's actually a good guy. Nakatsu tells him to prove it by donating money. So Kagurazaka does. Nakatsu is surprised and offers to shine his shoes. Then a bunch of girls rush in and ask for Mizuki's autograph on their An-An magazines.
cute Nakatsu/Kagurazaka moment
- Nakatsu explains to Kagurazaka that they were models in a magazine, and mentions that Sano was a model for it too. Kagurazaka was shocked, and went to check out the magazine for himself.
- Kagurazaka's sitting on a bench reading the magazine and Hibari, determined to not share Sano's beauty with the world, sits by his side to take the magazine from him and ends up falling in love with him instead.
- Nakatsu points out that Sano is not even helping them raise money, thinking that he doesn't care enough to save the school. Mizuki tries to defend him by saying that he needs to practice. They then muse about being separated from each other. Nakatsu reassures her not to worry about it, and remains positive that they will do well.
- I love the conversations they have with each other because they're so genuine and heartfelt, and they have such an open affection towards each other. It's too bad that Mizuki has no romantic intentions, because they would make a great couple. I guess I almost always root for the underdog.
Mizuki runs into Io
- Nakatsu disappears and Mizuki has a chat with Io. Io explains that Mizuki shouldn't have to worry about being with Sano or not if the school closes because their feelings for each other would bind them together, regardless of location.
- We hear about a cute side of Nanba Minami as Io reveals that he asked her to hire all of them if the school ever closes, showing his close alliance to the school. He really is a great leader with his group, and even if he seems immature, people are naturally drawn to him. I can definitely see why he's been a dorm leader for so long.
Results of their efforts
- The most money these boys collected was the money that Kagurazaka gave them. Nakatsu called Sekime "Issekinichou" or something like that and asked how much he collected. They pretty much failed. Sekime once again reminded Nakatsu of his actual name. I wonder how they came up with the idea of this running gag-- if it was to see how quickly Toma thought on his feet of a new nickname for Sekime...?
Nakatsu confronts Sano again
- Nakatsu asks Sano why he didn't help out to raise the money. Sano doesn't give a satisfactory answer, and then wonders if Sano even cares. He asked Sano if all he cares about is high jump, and Sano replied "what if it is?" Nakatsu answers "unforgiveable". This is an excellent scene because it demonstrates the vast difference of personalities between these two boys. Nakatsu cannot understand why Sano keeps to himself and refuses to reach out to others. He points out that the others have been supporting him for so long, and Sano can't go off alone anymore. Mizuki has been picking up his slack, and Nakatsu feels that Sano should be pulling his own weight with the group. Sano has probably all along only thought of himself, and realizes that Mizuki has been drawn into this as well. It's nice to have Nakatsu point out important things that Sano is missing without Mizuki blindly protecting him. Nakatsu's straightforward thinking makes him such an amazing person, but I've mentioned that before.
I was trying to squint and figure out who were in those pictures behind him. Sano and Mizuki, I'm assuming.
can you tell that I really like the serious scenes?
- Nakatsu is unafraid to speak up to Sano while everyone else is too afraid to say anything. Sano begins to realize the implications of his actions while Mizuki barges into the room, disturbing their argument. Mizuki wonders what's wrong and Nakatsu and Sano stalk off in opposite directions.
At night
- Sano stares at Mizuki looking out through the window at the moonlight. I like how the lighting was done in this scene, and giving the implication of Sano watching silently over her shoulder, protecting her, as she goes through her days.
Group picture!
- Dorm 2 discusses the closure of the school. Kayashima mentions that they should make good memories to remember this school by. They look at the An-An magazine, and Mizuki gets the idea to gather the whole school together to take a group picture. She persuades the dorm leaders to stay and Akiha to take their picture.
You can just see the look of love on Nakatsu's face as Mizuki convinces everyone to stay to take the picture together.
- They ask where Sano is, and Mizuki becomes determined to bring him over, even though he's never joined them. Nakatsu looks worried because he's afraid that his argument with Sano would prevent him from coming. I think over everything, he yells at Sano out of love, because he wants to see him fit in with the group, smile, and have fun with everyone else. It's like with Kayashima-- he will help out his friends and be there for them no matter what.
- Mizuki miraculously convinces Sano to come, assuring him that she'll support him, and that he truly does care about his friends. Nakatsu glances around anxiously in his seat, wondering if he's actually going to come.
- Nakatsu and the others look in amazement at Sano having actually arrived. Nakatsu breaks the tension by jokingly chiding him for being late, and telling him to hurry and sit down. I think it's hard for Nakatsu when his hot head gets him into arguments, and he feels helpless to resolve the situation. He really needed Mizuki to bring Sano over, because Nakatsu is sure to be just as worried about him. So when he showed up, the feelings of the fight were seemingly over, and they relaxed to take the group picture.
I love the little supporting grins they gave each other.
- They finally gather together and sit down for the full group picture. They goof off and act naturally, and Akiha takes the pictures that she's best at doing.
so cute
Nakatsu notices Mizuki staring at Sano, then...
*glomp*
- Umeda delivers the pictures to Sawatari, who comments on how happy they all are. The principal phones, and he tells her that the individual interviews will not be necessary, that it looks like they all love this school. And the instructions were to throw out the bad coffee beans and keep the good ones, and the interviews were to just judge the satisfaction with the school. Of course, another misunderstanding!
A challenge
- The boys find out that the school is not closing down and gather together to celebrate. Nakatsu looks back at Sano sitting alone, watching Mizuki celebrate with the others. He walks over to him.
He first comments on how happy he is that the school isn't closing. Then...
- He says that he can't hold it in anymore. He likes Mizuki and he's not going to lose. Nakatsu acknowledges Sano's feelings towards Mizuki and accepts his own (finally), openly challenging Sano in a competition to win Mizuki's affections.
I challenge you!
- Nakatsu runs back to cheer with Mizuki while Sano contemplates on what to do. Things should definitely get interesting.
This episode overall was light as usual, and fluffier from the last episode that was more serious and angsty. It shows how silly Sano could be, and he starts to show how protective he is over Mizuki like the manga version of him does. I like how he's slowly softening to those around him thanks in large part to Mizuki and Nakatsu. It's nice how they can all positively impact each other, because from what I remember in the manga, it was mostly Mizuki who "saved" Sano, so it's nice to see all three of them help each other out so much. They realize now that they are love rivals, and unassuming Mizuki gets herself in the middle of a love triangle that makes up this story.
Next episode:
- Inagaki Goro guest stars as the sensei who accuses Nakatsu of cheating. My favorite manga arc EVER, by the way! This moment just determined in my mind why I love Nakatsu so much, and why he is my favorite manga character. It looks lightened up a little by others in cosplay and screwing around, so we'll see how deep and serious this episode actually goes. But I'm so glad this part is mentioned in the drama. Much love. This next one may end up being my new favorite episode...?
Sorry if this post is long! I may have gone a tad too screencap-happy :) But please feel free to leave comments. Thanks for reading!!! Oh and sorry again for the fuzzy screencaps >_<
PS: I looked up Ikuta Toma on YouTube for the first time since the Hana Kimi boom, and now there's so many more videos/fan stuff on him! Wow!!!
PPS: The final episode of Hana Kimi is going to be 2 hours long!!! So I guess they really are going to wrap up the story in one season :D How exciting, I wonder what the directors and scriptwriters decide to do!!