Brighter Days Review: Nagano Mei Shining Bright with Her Best Performance Yet?

Mei Nagano as Saho Takahashi

This time, I won't be discussing a new Japanese drama on Netflix, but rather on Amazon Prime. "Brighter Days," starring Mei Nagano, has just premiered on Amazon Prime, and it truly surprised me.

"Brighter Days" (Japanese title: "Haretara Iine") is a 2025 Japanese drama directed by Yoshihiro Fukagawa.

The story focuses on Saho Takahashi, portrayed by Mei Nagano, a skilled but disillusioned nurse who has lost her passion for her work at Sumidaku Sakuraoka General Hospital. She finds comfort in confiding in her bedridden patient, Sae Yukino, the former Honorary Head Nurse.

During one of their conversations, an unexpected earthquake suddenly transports Saho back to a wartime era, where she takes on the role of a military nurse in 1945.

Initially, my expectations for this show were quite low. I had heard about it, but didn't come across many intriguing discussions aside from the praise for Mei Nagano's performances. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the story and the cast's performances.

Indeed, Mei delivers an exceptional performance, probably the best I've seen from her so far. Her on-screen acting skills have finally matched her charm and presence, resulting in a remarkable lead actress role.

Although the plot is somewhat predictable, the show effectively plays with the concept of Saho's time travel, akin to a time slip often seen in anime and manga.

The performances by the supporting characters, including the nurses Saho works with, contribute to a strong ensemble feel in the show.

Additionally, to my absolute delight, the show is very easy to understand and follow, enhancing my Japanese immersion experience! I would definitley recommend Brighter days to your list of immersion content, espeically if you're a Mei Nagano fan.

I will definitely be watching the next episode once its made available on prime !