Black Cinderella (2021)
A heartwarming Japanese drama about self-discovery, friendship, and dreams. Follow Kamiya Manaha’s journey as she enters a high school beauty pageant. Watch now!”
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Info
| Original Title | ブラックシンデレラ |
|---|---|
| Formats | Streaming |
| Seasons | 1 |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Duration | 40 mins |
| Status | Ended |
| Year | 2021 |
| First Air Date | April 22, 2021 |
| Last Air Date | June 10, 2021 |
| Broadcast Day | thursday |
| Network | AbemaTV |
Trailer
Synopsis
Abema original new story. Kamiya Manaha is a high school girl with little confidence in herself. Her dream since she was a child was to enter the Miss Seiran Contest, a beauty pageant that decides who is the most beautiful girl in school. Manaha calls herself a super ordinary girl but one day she gets a chance to enter the pageant. She then meets Tachibana Keigo, a narcissistic, perfect, national treasure-level handsome guy, and Shimamura Sora, a mysterious transfer student. On the day of the contest, Manaha is just a step away from her dream stage…
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Editor's Review
A Heartfelt Tale of Self-Discovery and Friendship
“Black Cinderella” is a delightful Japanese drama that weaves together themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and dreams. Set against the backdrop of a high school beauty pageant, the series introduces us to Kamiya Manaha, a girl with little self-confidence. Her childhood dream? To participate in the prestigious Miss Seiran Contest.
The drama unfolds as Manaha takes the courageous step of entering the pageant, despite seeing herself as an ordinary girl. Along the way, she encounters two intriguing characters: Tachibana Keigo, a handsome yet self-absorbed boy, and Shimamura Sora, a mysterious transfer student. As the contest draws near, Manaha’s excitement bubbles over—she’s just steps away from the very stage she’s dreamed about for so long.
What sets “Black Cinderella” apart is its nuanced portrayal of characters. Keigo and Sora both possess beautiful hearts, and Manaha’s strength and cheerfulness shine through. Unlike typical high school dramas, where aggressive behavior often dominates, this series emphasizes tenderness of heart. As the saying goes, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” and indeed, the drama celebrates inner beauty.
The chemistry between the leads is palpable. Keigo and Sora’s interactions are heartwarming, and their consideration for Manaha’s feelings takes center stage. No one is pushy or aggressive; instead, they prioritize empathy and understanding. The drama’s message resonates: Find your own kind of sparkle, embrace your uniqueness, and let your inner light shine.
The acting performances are commendable. The cast captures the angst and emotional rollercoaster of adolescence. Viewers will likely develop second lead syndrome, torn between rooting for Keigo or Sora. The drama also underscores the importance of true friendship and family support. Even seemingly trivial dreams matter, and “Black Cinderella” encourages us to reach for them.
The OST (original soundtrack) deserves a special mention. It’s like a chef’s kiss—perfectly complementing the emotional moments. And let’s not forget the stunning visuals. Airi, who plays Manaha, shines in every frame. Her transformation—from a girl lacking confidence to a radiant contestant—is beautifully portrayed.
In summary, “Black Cinderella” surprises with its depth. Beyond the fluffy romance, it delivers powerful messages about self-love, mental wellness, and pursuing dreams. If you’re seeking an inspiring Japanese drama, this one is a gem. Watch it, and discover your own kind of sparkle.
Note: The drama consists of 8 episodes and is available on Viki for those interested in experiencing this heartwarming journey.