**A Girl & Three Sweethearts**
**Definition:**
*A Girl & Three Sweethearts* is a Japanese television drama series that aired in 2016. The romantic comedy centers on a young woman who becomes involved with three brothers, exploring themes of love, family, and personal growth.
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## A Girl & Three Sweethearts
### Overview
*A Girl & Three Sweethearts* (Japanese title: *Suki na Hito ga Iru Koto*) is a Japanese romantic comedy television drama that originally aired in 2016. The series was produced by Fuji Television and consists of 10 episodes. It stars Mirei Kiritani as the protagonist, Misaki Sakurai, alongside Kento Yamazaki, Shohei Miura, and Ryo Yoshizawa, who portray the three brothers central to the storyline.
The drama combines elements of romance, family dynamics, and lighthearted comedy, making it a popular series among viewers who enjoy contemporary Japanese television dramas. The narrative focuses on Misaki’s journey as she navigates her relationships with the three brothers, each with distinct personalities and backgrounds, while also managing her career and personal aspirations.
### Plot Summary
Misaki Sakurai is a young woman working as a pastry chef in a café. After a sudden breakup, she finds herself at a crossroads in her life. Seeking a fresh start, Misaki moves to a new city where she encounters the Sakuragi brothers—Kanata, Teru, and Chiaki—who run a family restaurant. The brothers are close-knit but have their own individual challenges and dreams.
Kanata, the eldest, is responsible and serious, managing the family business with dedication. Teru, the middle brother, is charismatic and outgoing, often acting as the mediator between his siblings. Chiaki, the youngest, is playful and carefree, bringing a lighthearted energy to the group. Misaki’s arrival disrupts their routine, and as she becomes involved in the restaurant’s operations, romantic tensions develop between her and the brothers.
Throughout the series, Misaki and the brothers confront personal and professional obstacles, learning about trust, love, and the importance of family. The story explores how their relationships evolve, highlighting the complexities of affection and the challenges of balancing individual desires with collective responsibilities.
### Characters
#### Misaki Sakurai
Portrayed by Mirei Kiritani, Misaki is the central character of the series. She is a talented pastry chef with a kind and determined personality. Misaki’s character arc involves overcoming heartbreak and finding new purpose through her interactions with the Sakuragi brothers and her work at the family restaurant.
#### Kanata Sakuragi
Played by Kento Yamazaki, Kanata is the eldest Sakuragi brother. He is dependable and serious, often taking on the role of the family’s pillar. Kanata’s reserved nature contrasts with his deep care for his family and his growing feelings for Misaki.
#### Teru Sakuragi
Shohei Miura portrays Teru, the middle brother. Teru is sociable and charming, known for his ability to connect with others easily. His character provides emotional support to both his brothers and Misaki, and he experiences his own romantic developments throughout the series.
#### Chiaki Sakuragi
Ryo Yoshizawa plays Chiaki, the youngest brother. Chiaki is energetic and playful, often lightening the mood with his humor. Despite his carefree demeanor, he is earnest in his affections and personal goals.
### Production
The series was directed by a team of directors affiliated with Fuji Television, known for producing popular Japanese dramas. The screenplay was written by Yuji Sakamoto, a respected writer in the Japanese television industry, known for his ability to craft engaging romantic and family dramas.
Filming took place primarily in urban settings that reflect the contemporary lifestyle of the characters, with particular attention to the family restaurant, which serves as a central location for much of the series’ action. The show’s production values emphasize a warm and inviting atmosphere, complementing the romantic and comedic elements of the story.
### Themes
*A Girl & Three Sweethearts* explores several key themes:
– **Romantic Relationships:** The series delves into the complexities of love, particularly the dynamics of a love triangle (or quadrangle) involving Misaki and the three brothers. It examines how affection can develop in unexpected ways and the challenges of choosing between multiple romantic interests.
– **Family and Brotherhood:** The bond between the Sakuragi brothers is a central focus, highlighting themes of loyalty, support, and the tensions that can arise within family relationships.
– **Personal Growth:** Misaki’s journey reflects themes of self-discovery and resilience. The series portrays how individuals can grow through their relationships and life experiences.
– **Career and Passion:** The characters’ dedication to their work—Misaki as a pastry chef and the brothers running a restaurant—underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passions and the role of work in shaping identity.
### Reception
Upon its release, *A Girl & Three Sweethearts* received positive reviews for its charming storyline and strong performances by the lead actors. Mirei Kiritani’s portrayal of Misaki was particularly praised for its warmth and relatability. The chemistry among the cast members contributed to the series’ appeal, attracting a broad audience both in Japan and internationally.
The show was noted for its balance of humor and heartfelt moments, making it accessible to viewers who enjoy romantic comedies with a family-oriented backdrop. While some critics pointed out that the plot followed familiar tropes common in Japanese dramas, the execution and character development were generally well-received.
### Cultural Impact
The series contributed to the popularity of romantic comedy dramas in Japan during the mid-2010s. It also helped to further the careers of its young cast, especially Kento Yamazaki and Ryo Yoshizawa, who have since become prominent figures in Japanese entertainment.
The depiction of a strong female lead pursuing a career in the culinary arts resonated with audiences, reflecting contemporary social themes related to women’s independence and professional ambition in Japan.
### Episode Guide
The series consists of 10 episodes, each approximately 45 minutes in length. The episodes follow a serialized narrative, with each installment advancing the romantic and familial storylines while introducing new challenges and developments.
– **Episode 1:** Misaki moves to a new city and meets the Sakuragi brothers.
– **Episode 2:** Misaki begins working at the family restaurant and bonds with the brothers.
– **Episode 3:** Romantic tensions start to surface among Misaki and the brothers.
– **Episode 4:** Family conflicts and personal insecurities come to light.
– **Episode 5:** Misaki faces a career dilemma that affects her relationships.
– **Episode 6:** The brothers confront their feelings and past issues.
– **Episode 7:** Misaki’s past relationship complicates her current situation.
– **Episode 8:** A major event tests the bonds between the characters.
– **Episode 9:** Decisions about love and family are made.
– **Episode 10:** The series concludes with resolutions and new beginnings.
### Legacy and Availability
*A Girl & Three Sweethearts* remains a notable example of the romantic comedy genre within Japanese television. It continues to be available through various streaming platforms and DVD releases, allowing new audiences to discover the series.
The show’s blend of romance, humor, and family drama has influenced subsequent productions in the genre, and it is often recommended to viewers seeking lighthearted yet emotionally engaging Japanese dramas.
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**Meta Description:**
*A Girl & Three Sweethearts* is a 2016 Japanese romantic comedy drama about a young pastry chef who becomes involved with three brothers running a family restaurant. The series explores themes of love, family, and personal growth.