OP, thanks for clarifying what you’re asking for, I wasn’t quite sure.
To answer the original question: I liked Drama Densha better by far.
First, there’s the difference in appearance between the actors, which I’ve already seen several people comment on. Movie Densha went from looking like a mildly nerdy guy to someone who looked like he could be a movie star after his makeover. Drama Densha went from hardcore otaku to a normal looking guy (if a little short). So, even after his makeover, it still seemed exceedingly unlikely that he could land a woman like Hermes. That helped Drama Densha maintain his underdog status throughout the series.
Regarding their acting, let me clear that I have no problem with Yamada Takayuki’s performance. He’s a good actor who did a decent job in the movie. But casting Atsushi Ito in the drama was a stroke of pure genius. Atsushi has a knack for physical comedy, is an excellent actor, and left me unable to imagine anyone else playing the role.
As for the development of their characters, Drama Densha is once again the clear winner. Movie Densha seemed to regress and become more pathetic as the movie went on. Drama Densha made mistakes and never did away completely with his social awkwardness, but there were clear signs of progress. Examples: 1. While Drama Densha always looks to the forum for advice, there’s a difference between posting “I’ll do whatever the next person says” and taking several pieces of advice, weighing your options, and making your own choice. Drama Densha does the latter on several occasions, especially after the 3rd episode. 2. The 5th episode when Drama Densha asked Hermes if he can walk her home without studdering. 3. The unforgettable “I lost my contact lens” scene in the finale. Drama Densha played that one perfectly.
So, to answer the other question, it should be obvious that I liked the drama better. The movie was good, and I did enjoy it. But the drama remains one of the funniest and best overall pieces of entertainment I’ve seen from any country. I’ve told many of my friends about it, and I always say to them that while both are worth watching, the drama is much better.
pinkuonigiri wrote:I thought I heard the movie got licensed???? ( in north America at least) I really hope the drama does too but I’m not holding my breath.
I’ve heard this too, but I can’t find any details. Does it mean the Japanese movie will see a limited release here in the U.S., or is someone actually talking about making an American version of the movie. (Please,
please do not do this.
)
Edit: Typo.