Now I found the original source's anime adaptation, and well, I was able to sit through it all at least.
Honestly, you could look at this show two ways. Either, it's a story about a kind, loyal, devoted young woman who falls for an emotionally stunted young man, and as a result of her steadfast love for him, he grows emotionally and becomes a better man who learns how to cherish her. OR. It's about a hopeless silly girl who, due to mere shallow attraction for a smart, good looking kid, winds up in a somewhat abusive relationship, cloying for whatever affection he decides to give her; oh, and she wears him down till he ends up liking her back.
My emotional side wants to see this show from the first perspective, but my sensible side leans more towards the latter. Let's just say, if this were a real couple, her friends and family would be practically begging her to leave him no matter how good looking or smart he is. Naoki Irie is NOT good boyfriend material, ladies, and even though he changes near the end, don't expect a real person to. It doesn't always turn out that way. That being said, it was sweet to see how he does seem to fall in love with Kotoko, even if that does finally happen only in the last six episodes or so.
Personally, I would say this show is all right. Most of the characters are very likable (I found myself rooting for Kotoko's guy friend and an exchange student more than I was for her and Naoki), and it's not too hard on the eyes, I suppose. I just wish the payoff to the whole series had come sooner than later. Plus, did they REALLY have to make Kotoko have a jealous fight with her KID over Naoki?? Give me a break.
