Erased (2017)

Erased (2017) is a gripping and suspenseful Japanese live-action drama series, available on Netflix, that is guaranteed to keep its audience on the edge of their seats. Adapted from the acclaimed manga series "Boku dake ga Inai Machi" written by Kei Sanbe, the series features a blend of mystery, psychological thriller, and science fiction, casting a unique spell over viewers who crave intricate storytelling and intense narratives.

The plot revolves around the series' protagonist, Satoru Fujinuma, a 29-year-old manga artist who leads an uneventful life. But Satoru is anything but ordinary - he possesses a unique, unexplained ability, which he refers to as "Revival". This ability allows him to travel back in time, just moments before a life-threatening incident occurs, providing him with the chance to prevent it. However, these time slips are entirely out of his control - an involuntary response to imminent danger. Despite its jarring unpredictability, Satoru uses this ability for the well-being of others.

However, things take a dramatic turn when a personal tragedy strikes Satoru which spirals out of his control, and he finds himself catapulted back 18 years into the past, back to his childhood. Satoru realizes his "Revival" ability has flung him into this specific point in time for a reason, a moment in time having a connection with a series of chilling incidents that targeted innocent children in his hometown during his childhood.

This awakens an incredible determination in Satoru, leading him to leverage this mysterious time-travel ability to avert these horrific events that have scarred his town. While juggling the grueling task of reliving and navigating through his childhood, Satoru crosses paths with old friends, confronts hidden truths, and grapples with past demons to unravel the mystery behind these events.

Erased combines the nostalgia of revisiting adolescent years with the palpable tension of a whodunit, painstakingly painting the lives of its characters while methodically peeling back the layers of a twisting, turning plot. Visually, the series is a feast for the eyes with remarkable cinematographic aesthetics; the quiet, snow-covered town, the contrast between the calmness of winter and the intensity of the unfolding mystery only adds to the overall atmosphere of the series.

Equally impressive is the character development in the series. Satoru, played skillfully by Yuki Furukawa, is mirrored perfectly by his younger self, portrayed by Reo Uchikawa. Both actors masterfully convey the dichotomy of a child carrying the burdens and knowledge of an adult. Ayaka Miyoshi, who plays Airi Katagiri, maximizes her supporting role into a heartfelt performance of a youthful, innocent character who becomes Satoru's unexpected ally.

The viewers will find themselves entangled in a web of intense curiosity, feeling the same despair as the protagonist while navigating this challenging puzzle. This dramatic exploration of outrage towards injustice, tinted with the tenderness of childhood friendships and the endurance of the human spirit, strikes an emotional chord, setting it apart from typical thriller series.

Erased expertly balances the intriguing concept of time travel with the traumatic exploration of child crimes and the pursuit of justice, forming a compelling narrative that's hard to forget. The series impressively combines multiple genres to create a compelling narrative that urges the viewers to binge-watch, always yearning to see what the next episode brings. It stands as an excellent adaptation of a renowned manga, one that doesn't lose any of its predecessors' charm and impact, delivering a suspenseful drama where the past and future blur, creating an unforgettable saga of redemption and determination.

In conclusion, Erased (2017) is a riveting Japanese drama series on Netflix that effortlessly combines elements of suspense, thrill, and time-travel along with emotional depth and captivating storytelling. Whether you're a fan of the original manga or a newcomer to the story, it's a series that will keep you engrossed from start to finish.