I've secretly been wanting to do a J-Drama debate for months now but I've held off. I suppose I was so hesitant because I wasn't sure how many of you have really given J-Dramas a try yet--you're a fool if you haven't, by the way.

However, after much thought, and a little prodding at the behest of Colette, I've come to the conclusion that you've probably seen these shows. Even if you haven't, you've probably read the manga or watched the anime they were based on so you should have a point of reference for this. Both of these dramas were hugely successful, spawning multiple seasons, specials, and a theatrical film.

Hana Yori Dango is a story about a girl from a working-class family who ends up at a high school for the rich elite, practically ran by the four heirs to the wealthiest families in Japan. After initially being picked on, she develops a unique relationship with the four heirs which blossoms into a love triangle.

Nodame Cantabile is a story about two students who attend a music academy. A quirky young woman who lives a very disorganized life, and refuses to read sheet music, instead playing by ear, and her antithesis--a man who prides himself on being an absolute perfectionist with the secret ambition of becoming a conductor. While he remains driven toward his goal of becoming the next famous Japanese conductor, she strives to capture his heart. Check out Colette's write up if you want to learn more about it.

I adored both of these series, though I'm a tad partial to Hana Yori Dango myself. It's kind of strange too, considering I dealt with learning classical piano almost exactly like Nodame did.  I guess the memories of that weren't all that pleasant for me, and despite the humor, I found it bringing up some bad memories. Which of these shows was your favorite though?