Ataru Reviews

80%

The first episode was a blast, to say the least. Not really that impressive, but overall entertaining. Though the case for the first episode was quite a bore (on my part), that episode showcased Ataru’s problem-solving skills that gave a new light to such a rare disability.

I always enjoyed watching Japanese police/detective/crime dramas because of the cases, superb leads, and that they still managed to inject a bit of humor to such cases. This is also the first time that I watched Nakai Masahiro of SMAP, since I’m quite partial to Takuya Kimura. Anyway, you can also say that there is quite similarities with KimuTaku’s "Mr. Brain". Though Takuya is more "normal" in Mr. Brain, despite having a brain surgery following an accident that made him a "genius". In ATARU, Ataru is well, a special ‘child’, but with highly cognitive abilities. I’m actually congratulating the writer for making such character, to show to the world that those with special needs can function normally and can also have higher levels of I.Q. despite their condition.

There are those who hates Nakai’s acting in Ataru, or maybe because they are just clueless as to what his condition is. It’s quite a shame that his condition wasn’t discussed much with the first episode, at least, so those who are unfamiliar may know a bit of background of ‘savant syndrome’ and won’t be thinking that Nakai’s acting was all about being eccentric. I believe that Nakai did well. I’ve met Autistics, they may be "lost in their own world", but they have high cognitive abilities that once they were properly guided, they could used those abilities well. Like honing their photographic memory; enhancing their perception and sensitivity, and making good use of their artistic and musical ability.

Lastly, the first episode leaves you wanting for more, there are loads of questions that needs to be answered, and more cases that needs solving. I just hope that the cases would be solve-worthy and not too boring! Moreover, I want to see how long can Ataru keep up the pace that they are in now. With the huge ratings they got for the first episode, they need a stronger following to be able to keep them on the top..

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