Second generation actor Kusunoki Taiga (played by Matsumoto Jun) has always lived in the shadow of his father, long time star of one of Japan’s most popular TV dramas. When his father Kotaro suddenly passes away, Taiga sets out to make a name for himself, auditioning for more roles and trying to get away from the variety shows he appears on regularly. He lives with his mother and has an older brother who teaches at the local elementary school, always scouting for the future mother of his children.
Kitamura Shiori (Takeuchi Yuko), single mother and huge fan of Taiga’s father, starts a new position as office manager at the agency office representing Taiga, whom she met previously when he was caught in a tree during a sky diving mishap. She is supportive of everyone in the office, encouraging Taiga to take his acting more seriously.
Taiga clearly has feelings for Shiori and over time she admits to her own feelings. However, she is a single mother with in-laws who love her while Taiga is working hard to become a better actor and support his mother. Both are working hard to provide better lives for their families and trying to balance a new relationship at the same time. Of course, nothing runs smoothly. Taiga’s co-worker also has feelings for him, and his brother is interested in Shiori. And then there is Umi, Shiori’s daughter, who likes Taiga as a friend, but is she willing to see him as anything more than that?
Natsu no Koi has a brilliant cast, bringing a great range of talent to the screen and tugging on all sorts of heart strings. There were times that make you laugh so hard your stomach shakes and other instances where you are on the verge of tears. I even caught myself cheering out loud several times encouraging the stars of the show. One of the best romantic dramas I had the pleasure of watching last year.
Starring: Matsumoto Jun, Sawamura Ikki, Takeuchi Yuko, Matsushige Yutaka, Kiritani Mirei, Kasahara Hideyuki
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Episodes: 10
TV Station: Fuji TV
Air Dates: July 19, 2010 – Sept 20, 2010