Otomen (Japanese TV Drama)

Otomen is a Japanese television drama series that aired in 2009 on Fuji TV. The series is based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Aya Kanno. The term "otomen" refers to men who possess traditionally feminine hobbies, interests, or sensibilities, such as a proficiency in housework, while maintaining a masculine appearance.

Otomen promotional poster — Promotional artwork for the television series Otomen.

Plot

The story centers on Asuka Masamune, a popular and athletic high school student who is a national champion in Kendo. While he is perceived by his peers as a hyper-masculine figure, Asuka hides a secret: he enjoys activities typically associated with "girly" culture, including reading shoujo manga, sewing, cooking, and collecting cute items. His life changes when he falls in love with Ryo Miyakozuka, a new transfer student. Although Ryo appears delicate, she is physically tough and lacks traditional domestic skills, creating a dynamic contrast between the two protagonists.

Production

The series was directed by Masaki Tanimura and Masakazu Abe, with a screenplay by Teruo Noguchi, Maki Kurihara, Ritsuko Hanzawa, and Kota Fukuhara. The drama consists of 12 episodes in total, broadcast in two segments: the first eight episodes aired from August 1 to September 26, 2009, followed by four additional episodes from October 13 to November 3, 2009. The series maintained a Saturday 23:00–23:55 time slot.

Cast

The main cast includes:

Masaki Okada as Asuka Masamune
Kaho as Ryo Miyakozuka
Ryo Kimura as Hajime Tonomine
Kazuma Sano as Juta Tachibana
Koji Seto as Yamato Ariake
Emi Takei as Kuriko Tachibana

Masaki Okada, who portrays the lead character Asuka Masamune.

Kaho, who plays the transfer student Ryo Miyakozuka.

Supporting cast members include Kanako Yanagihara, Mirei Kiritani, Tomohiro Ichikawa, Shingo Tsurumi, Mirai Yamamoto, and Nobuhiko Takada. The production also featured guest appearances from various performers, including Bakarhythm and Nocchi.