Century of Love

Kishida Shinichi, a freelance writer, has an annual income of only 2 million yen. He meets Obayashi Rikako, a fashionable business woman who makes 60 million yen per year, and falls in love with her at first sight. However, Shinichi worries that she's out of his league, so he gives up on her. He's relieved when she calls him back after their first date, and they end up going on another date. Can this love survive in spite of the great differences in their personal and professional lives?

Directed by —, Century of Love leans on a strong ensemble — Michitaka Tsutsui, Ayako Kawahara, Atsuko Takahata — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2003.