The final episode of the TBS drama 'Who Saw the Crows Dance?', starring Suzu Hirose as Kokumugi Yamashita and Kenichi Matsuyama as lawyer Kensuke Matsukaze, aired on March 28, 2025, captivating viewers with its intricate storytelling and emotional depth. The series, based on Rito Asami's manga, follows Kokumugi as she unravels the truth behind her father Haruo Yamashita's murder on Christmas Eve.
In the gripping finale, Kokumugi embarks on a harrowing journey to uncover the secrets surrounding her father's death, which is shrouded in mystery and betrayal. Haruo, a former police officer, left behind a note containing the word 'false charge,' igniting Kokumugi's quest for justice and closure. As she digs deeper, the narrative intertwines past and present, revealing the complexities of the Higashikozan incident that occurred 22 years prior.
The final episode features a pivotal scene where Narukawa, played by Kyozo Miyake, confesses to a series of crimes, further complicating the plot. Kokumugi, along with Matsukaze and Kamai (played by Yuto Totsuka), follows the GPS of investigator Akazawa (Takaaki Fujimoto) to the Hayashikawa household, where they discover a shocking scene: Akazawa has been stabbed, and his wife Kyoko (Naomi Nishida) is found holding a kitchen knife.
As the layers of the Higashikozan incident unfold, viewers learn about Kyoko's troubled past. Raised in poverty, she lost her younger brother to starvation, which deeply impacted her psyche. Despite marrying Akazawa, her obsession with wealth led to their separation. Eventually, she started a company with Hiroshi Ikumi and met Yasunari Hayashikawa, who became significant in her life.
Kyoko's relationship with Yasunari blossomed, and she bore a child, Kokumugi. However, the tragic events that followed, including Yasunari's divorce from his wife to be with Kyoko, set the stage for the horrific Higashikozan incident. The final revelations leave viewers in shock, with many commenting on social media about the emotional weight of the episode, describing it as 'too shocking,' 'what a final episode,' and 'words fail me.'
In the heart-wrenching finale, Kokumugi finds a video on her father's phone recorded on the night of his murder, where he expresses his gratitude and love for her. Despite his shyness in person, Haruo's heartfelt message resonates deeply, culminating in a scene where Kokumugi imagines her father thanking her for being his daughter. This poignant moment has sparked a wave of emotional responses from viewers, who praised it as 'the greatest love' and 'wonderful plot resolution.'
As the series comes to an end, the intertwining fates of Kokumugi, Matsukaze, and Kyoko reach a climax that leaves audiences reflecting on the themes of love, loss, and the quest for truth. The show has been lauded for its powerful performances, particularly from Hirose and Matsuyama, who brought depth to their characters.
Matsuyama, known for his versatility, has been a standout in the series. He has previously portrayed a smart METI official in the drama 'Japan Sinks: People of Hope,' which aired in October 2024. His ability to immerse himself in diverse roles has garnered praise from peers and critics alike. Tatsuya Fujiwara, who co-starred with Matsuyama in the recently released film 'Noise,' remarked on his unique presence and dedication to his craft, noting that Matsuyama is always seeking to improve his acting skills.
In a recent interview, Matsuyama shared insights into his lifestyle, which he believes positively influences his acting. He has been living between Tokyo and a rural area for the past three years, engaging in activities such as growing vegetables and accompanying hunters. This slower pace of life has allowed him to gain experiences that he channels into his performances.
His wife, Koyuki, plays a significant role in his life, emphasizing health and sustainability in their family. She has been known to prepare meals using pesticide-free vegetables and has even shared deer cutlets made with barley and herbs on a variety show, showcasing her culinary skills and commitment to healthy living.
As the series finale of 'Who Saw the Crows Dance?' concludes, it not only wraps up the gripping narrative but also highlights the importance of family, love, and the complexities of human relationships. With its compelling storytelling and rich character development, the show has left a lasting impact on its audience, ensuring that the legacy of Kokumugi Yamashita and her quest for truth will be remembered.
