Florence Tsang

I was very hesitant to watch this for two reasons: 1) it seemed like it might be a typical rom-com with body swapping thrown in. 2) J-dramas based on manga tend to try to be too much like anime (the over-acting and some weird special effects can be cringe-worthy) But just the first episode subverts that completely. It is not a comedy at all, the overall tone is quite serious although there are some much needed lighthearted moments sprinkled throughout. The acting and cinematography were well done. There is a bit of over-acting, but considering the setting and events, it's not jarring. And there are no strange special effects, even the paranormal element is *almost* seamlessly integrated into the story's world. *Almost* because there's one development about the red moon that I think was thrown in to make the character's decisions more urgent, but I feel it detracted from the character development and the show would've been better leaving it out. The 4 main characters are fleshed out and are believable human beings with goals and reasons behind their behavior. Everyone else is a little flat but considering there are only six 30-40 minute episodes, that's forgivable. Most people have thought "I wish I were <insert name>", but by the end of this show you'll be left pondering what the consequences of getting that wish granted would be. It also left me wondering if people around me would notice if my body got taken over by someone else, and if they would recognize me if my physical appearance was drastically different. Switched also makes a wonderful portrayal of the "power of friendship" and the impact that can have during dark times in the real world (unlike shounen anime where this is generally depicted as a power up in the protagonist's strength and abilities). I do not regret watching all 6 episodes in one sitting and I will definitely watch it again.