This is a series of two completely different halves.
The first few episodes of 家政婦のミタ (Kaseifu no Mita) {translated as "Housekeeper Mita"} are underwhelming to say the least. The husband, supposedly the character around whom the story revolves, is a weak, cowardly and unlikeable human being. None of his early actions are justifiable or even understandable in the least. The other major characters are the children, who are each unique and likable in their own way, but don't really blossom in these early episodes. The story of a family struggling to pick up the pieces after an overwhelming tragedy doesn't really click.
The show picks up pace around Episode 5, as the mystery elements start to reveal themselves piece by piece. The kids, especially little Kii, produce bits of memorable drama. Other supporting characters arrive to give the story more weight.
Of course, the show is made by the subtle robotic charm of the housekeeper. Nanako Matsushima really impresses in this role, and by the end, you're left hoping for a "happy" ending you never considered in the beginning.
The show may be named after the housekeeper, but it's in essence a family drama that has its roots in the characters. And it's definitely worth a watch.
9/10
The first few episodes of 家政婦のミタ (Kaseifu no Mita) {translated as "Housekeeper Mita"} are underwhelming to say the least. The husband, supposedly the character around whom the story revolves, is a weak, cowardly and unlikeable human being. None of his early actions are justifiable or even understandable in the least. The other major characters are the children, who are each unique and likable in their own way, but don't really blossom in these early episodes. The story of a family struggling to pick up the pieces after an overwhelming tragedy doesn't really click.
The show picks up pace around Episode 5, as the mystery elements start to reveal themselves piece by piece. The kids, especially little Kii, produce bits of memorable drama. Other supporting characters arrive to give the story more weight.
Of course, the show is made by the subtle robotic charm of the housekeeper. Nanako Matsushima really impresses in this role, and by the end, you're left hoping for a "happy" ending you never considered in the beginning.
The show may be named after the housekeeper, but it's in essence a family drama that has its roots in the characters. And it's definitely worth a watch.
9/10