Strawberry Night

I really don't have time to watch dramas, but I managed to fit in the Japanese drama "Strawberry Night" because I wanted a break from studying. (This took over a month to finish watching.)

Originally broadcast in autumn of 2010 as a special drama, "Strawberry Night" returns to Fuji on Tuesday nights. 

The drama is not only full of suspense, but breathtakingly tells a story of each character's concerns and sorrow, the troubles and tasks they must face. It takes a closer look at Reiko's mental state, the relationship between her and those surrounding her, a detective's faith, pride and sincerity towards one's profession...All in all, it's a profound human / profession drama that will touch the hearts of many. --Fuji TV

(^ I shortened the summary from Fuji TV)
I wasn't expecting the realistic and twisted themes of this drama honestly. There is some humor at times, but overall it's mainly suspense and drama. 
Personally, my interest in Strawberry Night never really spiked or dropped, it just maintained a steady interest which is unusual. I kind of knew what to expect for most episodes, but the writers really knew how insert twists into the this drama. Also if you're looking for a Japanese drama that resembles CSI in some way, then this is the drama to watch!

Casting wise and script wise, it felt very concrete, I felt this drama was a breath of fresh air to all the other mystery/detective dramas I've recently watched. Takeuchi Yuko, who plays the lead actress, brings out a sense of leadership, determination, and role model skills that's hard to find in many actresses who play lead detectives. There's a sense of foundation, righteousness, and strength in her character, yet a weakness that makes her human. Each actor brings a depth to their character which makes them human and someone you can relate to.

The only downside I really saw with this drama is if you haven't watched the SP which came out a year before this drama. I suggest watching it before going on to the drama! I realized I should've watched the SP which aired back in 2010 beforehand, so it took me a little longer to catch up with what was going on (I had to google for a summary about the SP).

Overall:  Good drama if you want something that's not comedic. Actors don't disappoint with their performances.