The opening scene of Let’s Get Divorced is a sharp, witty exchange between Taishi Shoji (Tori Matsuzaka) and Yui Kurosawa (Riisa Naka), where they casually discuss their impending divorce over coffee as if it were a business meeting. It’s a strong hook: two people who’ve clearly grown apart but are oddly in sync about ending things. This moment sets the tone for what follows—a dramedy that tries to balance humor and heartbreak, though not always successfully.

Written by Kankuro Kudo and Shizuka Oishi, this 2023 Netflix series from TBS is a Japanese dramedy that leans heavily into the “romantic comedy” genre while trying to inject some political satire. The premise—a couple who are optimistic about divorce but kept apart by external forces—has potential, especially with the chemistry between Matsuzaka and Naka, who play off each other like veterans of romantic banter.

Where Let’s Get Divorced succeeds is in its performances. Tori Matsuzaka brings a dry, self-deprecating humor to Taishi, a politician whose career is just taking off at the worst possible time. His delivery is measured, his expressions often deadpan, which makes his moments of genuine emotion land even harder. Riisa Naka, as Yui, an actress navigating her own professional challenges, delivers a performance that balances vulnerability and sharp wit. There’s a scene in Episode 3 where she confronts Taishi about their stalled divorce proceedings, and the raw frustration in her voice feels achingly real.

The supporting cast is equally strong. Ryo Nishikido (as Kyoji Kano) adds a layer of complexity as Taishi’s political ally-turned-rival, while Yuka Itaya brings warmth and wisdom to the role of their mutual friend. Even smaller roles, like those played by Arata Furuta and Reiko Takashima, are fleshed out with enough personality to avoid feeling like background noise.

The series also benefits from its production values—sleek Tokyo cinematography that captures the city’s neon-lit streets and quiet residential corners, ensuring that the setting feels as much a character as any of the actors. The soundtrack, curated by Kyojuro, is understated but effective, using soft piano melodies and ambient tracks to underscore the emotional beats of the story without overpowering them.

However, Let’s Get Divorced stumbles in its execution. The plot, while initially engaging, meanders into overlong stretches where the central conflict—divorce—gets buried under subplots that don’t always pay off. The political satire elements feel tacked on at times, as if the creators weren’t sure whether they wanted to make a romcom or a sharp critique of Japanese politics. This indecision weakens the narrative momentum.

The pacing is another issue. At ten episodes, the series could have benefited from tighter editing. Some episodes drag, particularly in the middle act, where repetitive arguments and forced comedic moments test patience. The finale, while satisfying, arrives too late to fully salvage the uneven journey.

Thematically, Let’s Get Divorced tries to explore the complexities of modern relationships, the pressures of public life, and the difficulty of letting go. However, these themes are often overshadowed by the series’ tonal inconsistencies. One moment, it’s a heartfelt drama about love and loss; the next, it’s a farcical comedy about political maneuvering. The shift is jarring and leaves the series feeling unfocused.

That said, Let’s Get Divorced has its moments of brilliance. A standout scene in Episode 6 finds Taishi and Yui trapped together during a power outage, forced to confront their lingering feelings for each other. The tension between them is palpable, and the dialogue crackles with unspoken emotion. It’s one of the few times the series fully commits to its romantic roots, and it works beautifully.

The series also shines in its portrayal of the Japanese entertainment and political industries. The behind-the-scenes look at Yui’s acting career—complete with auditions, set conflicts, and public appearances—feels authentic and grounded. Similarly, Taishi’s struggles as a rising politician navigating media scrutiny and public opinion add depth to his character.

Ultimately, Let’s Get Divorced is a likable but flawed series. It has strong performances, witty dialogue, and a premise that could have been tighter.