Netflix’s Beyond Goodbye is more than a show—it’s an emotional journey that captivated me.
This drama's storytelling isn't groundbreaking or surprising, and at times, it even feels a bit clichéd. However, I watched this drama because it's a Japanese production.
My interest isn't solely because I love Japanese dramas and movies. Instead, I consistently find that the Japanese storytelling style provides an in-depth emotional journey that I rarely encounter in dramas from other countries.
Netflix's Beyond Goodbye made me reflect deeply on death, relationships, and life.
What is Netflix's Beyond Goodbye
Beyond Goodbye is Netflix's latest original Japanese drama series. It has 8 episodes and is now available for binge-watching in November 2024. Yoshikazu Okada wrote the script, and Hiroshi Kurosaki directed it. The cast includes Kasumi Arimura as Saeko, Kentaro Sakaguchi as Naruse, and Toma Ikuta as Yusuke.
The story is about Saeko, who is really heartbroken after her boyfriend Yusuke tragically dies in a car accident. A few months later, she bumps into Naruse, a guy who's had a heart transplant from Yusuke. As they get to know each other, Naruse starts feeling something for Saeko, like his heart is connecting her to Yusuke all over again.
As I mentioned, even though it sounds cliché, this J-drama's depth of life and human emotion are worth exploring.
Let me share my impressive insights.
1. The Japanese Title is Beautiful
I can't stop thinking about the Japanese title, "さよならのつづき" (Sayonara no Tsuduki). "Sayonara" means "goodbye," while "tsuduki" translates to "continuation."
I think this title perfectly captures the essence of the story. It conveys the idea that saying goodbye is never truly over; when someone passes away, those left behind continue to experience their pain and loss.
Although Saeko can communicate with Yusuke through the memories in his heart while in someone else's body, his death remains a reality. Thus, the 'goodbye' continues. It's never-ending, as we will always miss our loved ones.
 |
| Netflix |
2. Brain Can Talk, But Heart Speaks Better
Yusuke has died, and Naruse received a heart transplant from Yusuke. This heart not only functions but also carries Yusuke's memories.
Some audiences may reject this idea as unreasonable, thinking it would make more sense to refer to the brain instead of the heart. However, when we reflect romantically on how we love and feel for someone or something, we realize that our memories are stored in our hearts, not our heads.
I'm not protecting a screenwriter. Instead, I want to emphasize that this approach is much deeper than a logical thinking style when it comes to a beautiful story and the meaning of life.
That’s why I say, "The brain can talk, but the heart speaks better." It’s not just about remembering; it’s about what resides deep within our hearts.
 |
| NB Press Online |
3. Life is Full of Emotional Depths
Netflix's Beyond Goodbye proves the complexity of our lives and emotions. In this story, however, things are even more complicated.
Saeko wants to stay connected with Naruse because he has her boyfriend's heart and memories. On the other hand, Miki, Naruse's wife, is not interested in hearing about the heart donor; she just wants her husband to be healthy and happy.
In the dialogue, Miki asks, "What did I do to deserve this?" The most heartbreaking words are, "An affair would have been much easier." Yes, it's complicated and uncontrollable.
Saeko has a final opportunity to connect with her late boyfriend through his living organ, which has been transplanted into Miki's husband. However, Miki has the right to prevent Saeko from getting close to her husband. I believe audiences will feel sympathy for both women.
Still, it's complicated.
4. Slow Life, Slow Train Vibe
Hokkaido, Japan, has long been a famous region for filming romantic and bittersweet dramas and movies. Netflix's Beyond Goodbye is also set in this beautiful landscape.
In my opinion, Hokkaido has a lifestyle quite different from that of major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and even Sendai. Everything feels slower there.
Saeko and Naruse regularly use the local train service, which runs once an hour. The trains have an old design and move slowly. While I have yet to take this kind of local train in Hokkaido, I have experienced a similar one in Yamaguchi, so I understand how slow they can be.
The vibe of the story really lets the characters dive into their thoughts, which is a great choice. For the audience, it’s like a calming image that gives us a break from our hectic lives, especially for those in the major city.
 |
| NB Press Online |
5. Kentaro Sakaguchi
Okay, this is my bias. The perfect actor for Netflix's Beyond Goodbye cast is Kentaro Sakaguchi.
His gentle and clean look truly matches Naruse's character and the atmosphere of this story. A guy in unfashionable clothes living a simple life makes me feel comfortable watching from beginning to end.
Official website: https://www.netflix.com/title/81512200
0 Comments