This dark gritty Japanese BL is something I was not expecting. The story focuses on a Yakuza bodyguard assigned to kill his young boss. The premise sounds interesting but the execution was just weird. There were lot of problems with the show like violence, abuse, coercion and even forcing themselves sexually. Eventually it somewhere becomes. BL with some nonsense stuff. Thankfully the series was only 6 episodes of about 26-30 minutes each. Kataoka is a respected yakuza leader. His boss has grown old and frail, unable to manage the organization anymore. Leadership now falls to the boss's son, Keito. He assigns Odajima as Kataoka's new handler to keep him in check. Kataoka is impulsive and treats Odajima aslmost as a servant even forcing sex on him. But beneath the rough exterior, Kataoka occasionally reveals a gentler side. Odajima, on the other hand, is stoic and distant, keeping his emotions under tight control. What Kataoka doesn't know is that Odajima has a hidden agen...
Jungwoo is a single man who lives alone. He works at his uncle's cafe as a waiter. One day, Jungwoo arrives home to discover two unfamiliar men at his doorstep. They introduce themselves as the humanoid forms of his pets, Choco and Milk. Choco, his dog, is now a hyperactive young man bursting with puppy-like enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Milk has become a moody, skittish guy. Of course, Jungwoo doesn't believe them bother are eventually ablate convince him. Although surprised, Jungwoo gets used to the idea and accommodates his companions. The three begin living together as roommates. Despite humans, both Choco and Milk show their animal traits. This exasperates Jungwoo but he is really happy they are in his life. Each episode slowly follows a slice of life story with these three and the uncle and eventually over a period of time, Choco starts falling for Jungwoo whereas Milk and the uncle start getting into a relationship. While each of them know that this is not going to last long, Jungwoo eventually tells them that it is ok they can go back tcheaven because the amount of happiness these two have even him is something he will never forget. The show has a happy ending, when after 2 years, both Choco and Milk return and this time for a slightly longer time.
Choco Milk Shake is a delightful treat for fans who want a delicate and enchanting BL romance. Its biggest victory is it's amazing cast. The titular leads, Choco and Milk, have vibrant personalities. It's funny when they display canine or feline qualities in a human's body. Likewise, Jungwoo is a sensitive and soft-spoken protagonist with a kind heart. Along with the Uncle, the four main characters create an entertaining relationship dynamic. Even though the romance is not fully developed, and yes, that is the biggest issue of the show, I still somehow found myself connecting very much with each character. The light hearted exchanges, playful banter, quirky scenarios; all of those felt like something that makes you feel warm and fuzzy and you just wanna sit back, relax, and enjoy the unfolding in front of your screen. The show, very intelligently, also has a bot of melancholy and sadness built in. The storyteller makes you fond of the characters and couples before tugging at your heartstrings and the beauty is the subtle transition from cite and sweet to sad and lonely. I can understand why some people may find the premise ridiculous, especially since no explanation is given on how and why did these pets come back, why in JUngwoo sad and alone etc. Even the logical side of my brain is trying to do that. But you know, I just wanted to forget that and enjoy the amazing chemistry and charm. Choco and Jungwoo, as actors are clear standout but even Milk does a splendid job. Each of these boy is attractive, charming, gorgeous smile and boundless energy and effervescence. Everyone brings a distinctive individuality to their roles. In fact, in the first few episodes both Choco and Milk display some animal traits which were quite funny, like Choco following Jungwoo everywhere or Milk getting distracted by shiny things and being moody. The tender love story feels as delightful as a chocolate milkshake, a sweet experience that leaves you a little happier.
The production quality is very high and the story never deviates from the basic premise , which I always appreciate. The show has a bittersweet ending that makes you cherish all the valuable memories with your loved ones. The story about unconditional love from someone used to be your pet who have died years ago and suddenly appear as human at your front door, is extremely unique and surprisingly very well done with extreme charm and love. This one was a very pleasant surprise. (8/10)
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