Watch Bokura ga Ita

Bokura ga Ita is a heart-warming and realistic Japanese romantic drama television series that originally premiered on July 3rd, 2006. The show is adapted from the manga of the same name by Yuki Obata and is directed by Akitarō Daichi. The story revolves around the intricate love relationship between two high school students, Nanami Takahashi (Nozomi Sasaki), and Yano Motoharu (Hiroshi Yazaki).

Nanami Takahashi is an average-looking high school freshman who is lonely and insecure. She dreams of having a beautiful and fulfilling love story like in the fairy tales, but she feels like it's far from reach for her. Despite her insecurities, she is strong-willed, and she attempts to better herself by joining the literature club. It's through the literature club that she meets Yano Motoharu, the popular bad boy of the school.

Yano comes off as a player who has had many girls' hearts, but it's evident that he carries deep emotional scars from his past relationships. He's guarded, hesitates when it comes to trusting people, and tries not to let anyone close to him. Nanami becomes drawn to Yano and his mysterious demeanor but she's also aware of his reputation, which causes her to have conflicting feelings.

The story begins from a backward perspective, where we see Nanami reminiscing about a past relationship with Yano. They both remember the story differently and often disagree about details, which creates tension between them. The show then follows their blossoming relationship from their first awkward encounter, to them gradually growing closer as they navigate their difficulties and their different personalities. Throughout the show, they encounter various challenges, including jealousy, insecurity, gossip, and public scrutiny. How they approach these complicated situations shapes who they are as characters and dictates the narrative of the show.

Bokura ga Ita's unique storytelling style adds an added layer of depth to the series. The show tells the story through frequent flashbacks, inner monologues, and persuasive dialogue. It's touching and relatable to see the characters' thoughts and emotions as they continue their emotional journey.

Aside from the main storyline, there are also complex side characters whose stories intertwine with Nanami and Yano's lives. These characters add a different perspective to the show and highlight the themes of the show beautifully. Whenever Nanami is experiencing a struggle, she often leans on her close friends, Takeuchi (played by Takuya Ishida) and Yuri (played by Erina Nakayama). The supportive friendships help create a more realistic and relatable atmosphere to the show.

The show's cinematography is equally excellent as the acting, adding to an already emotional story. The camera often focuses on close-ups of the characters, emphasizing their emotions, and allowing the viewers to connect with them on a deeper level. The show also utilizes various settings, such as the school, beaches, and temples, to enhance the visual experience.

Bokura ga Ita is a captivating, mature, and profound romantic drama that explores the complexities of love and relationships through the eyes of two high school students. It's an emotional rollercoaster ride that delicately unravels the subtle intricacies of human emotions with a dose of elegance. The show's themes of personal growth, trust, jealousy, and acceptance provide universal lessons that anyone who has ever been in love can relate to. Bokura ga Ita is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys an emotive, thought-provoking and touching story.