I Just Want to See You is a calm and soothing Japanese BL series. The laidback love story depicts a sweet teenage romance between two best friends. It also highlights their coming-of-age journeys as the characters transition between adolescence and adulthood. They are uncertain about their feelings for each other and their plans for the future. With a simple yet compelling concept, I Just Want to See You provides a relaxing experience with lots of gentle charm.

This series has a promising beginning. It introduces the main characters well, showcasing their distinct personalities with quirky and memorable scenes. Also, it emphasizes their camaraderie using cute flashbacks, funny exchanges, and a persuasive bond between the leads. Then, an intriguing twist shakes up their current relationship dynamics, opening the story to many possibilities. You will feel comfortable watching the first two episodes, which progress the narrative at a smooth and delightful pace.

I Just Want to See You is supported by two charismatic young actors with a sparkling rapport. Yuma's actor (Rintaro Mizusawa) is vibrant and energetic, appearing cheeky without veering into obnoxiousness. Likewise, his costar (Yuki Kura) exudes genuine warmth in his eyes, smile, and natural expressions. What a pleasant surprise to see Yuki star in another BL drama since he last appeared in His: I Didn't Think I Would Fall In Love years ago. Compared to his past performance, he shows a remarkable improvement with more confidence, control, and maturity.

Unfortunately, I Just Want to See You doesn't carry the positive momentum into its second half. The story and romance stall after a strong start. Once the series transitions into summer vacation, the narrative also seems to take a break and barely budges forward. Subplots that were introduced earlier have stopped developing. The supporting cast also doesn't have much significance. Even Sakura and Yuma's relationship isn't that riveting anymore. Despite captivating me initially, this BL drama loses its spark midway and feels pretty snoozy towards the end.

I Just Want to See You becomes a slice-of-life drama, describing a sleepy summer where the leads enjoy leisurely time. There's a lackadaisical vibe as Sakura and Yuma drift casually through their ordinary routines. Everything has slowed down, following a relaxed approach with many mundane moments. The third episode slogs dully and almost feels like pointless filler. The finale is more intimate, but it still continues a pattern of aimlessness in the plot. I was often bored during the uneventful second half, like someone fired a tranquillizer shot into this lethargic series.

Although the brisk pace at the beginning resonates with me more, this series always remains warm and cozy. The story ends happily, even if the leads haven't sorted out their unclear prospects. Let these two carefree teens savour their last summer of youth together, free from expectations. The protagonists only reach one decisive conclusion, realizing they want each other's company no matter where their futures take them. Overall, I Just Want to See You excels in cultivating a soft, serene atmosphere. This zen drama captures the essence of adolescence magically.