In most pieces of media, there is often a recognizable pattern that can be easily identified. A structure or formula of sorts. This starts with an introductory stage where we are introduced to the characters and the world they inhabit, along with a sprinkle of exposition to provide us with the necessary background information.

Next comes the conflict phase, which is characterized by a gradual increase in tension that builds up to a high point, where the main characters become actively involved in the problem at hand. And then there's the payoff, where the tension and conflict are resolved and the story comes to a close.

It's worth noting that this structure can repeat multiple times within a single piece of media, with each iteration adding more depth and complexity to the story. layered on top of this loop is character development, where the character goes through what you would call an arc.

Finally, there is the ending, which serves as the grand payoff and resolution of the story. This is where all the pieces come together and the story reaches its conclusion. However, sometimes the ending may serve as a cliffhanger or a setup for sequels, leading to a never-ending rabbit hole of storytelling. It's interesting to note that this formula has become so ingrained in our minds that we have come to expect it in most pieces of media that we consume.

In this context, NHK is like a black sheep. Setting a unique and unconventional bar. While it does adhere to the formula in many ways, there re moments where it feels like the show is attempting to experiment and venture into new territory. One such instance is the ending, which sets itself apart from most endings I've seen.

The ending felt remarkably realistic. Real as in; that's how it would've ended if the story took place in our own lives. Unlike many endings that are either tragic or filled with happiness, the ending of NHK is neutral and grounded. Despite all the events that occur throughout the series, our protag, Sato, doesn't undergo a significant change. Much like people in real life, you might exhibit big changes when you're undergoing unexpected circumstances, but you eventually find yourself reverting back to your old ways once the thrill of the experience wears off. This is not to say you don't change at all, but the changes that do happen are often minute.

This realistic nature bleeds into the chemistry between our protagonists, Satou and Misaki as well. It wouldn't have been surprising for many people to ask the age question near the end: will they or won't they? Because I know I was. I hoped that they would ride off into the sunset hand-in-hand. But as they say, real life is a cruel mistress - things don't always go the way we want, no matter how much chemistry there is.

Take a bowl of ramen for instance. You can't just magically plop a steaming bowl of noodles right in front of you. You need to take the initiative and make a change by ordering it yourself. Similarly, sometimes you have to be the one to make things happen, otherwise, you might be left with nothing but an empty table (or an unfulfilled love life).

Watching NHK is like staring into a mirror, reflecting the harsh truths of life right back at you. The show doesn't shy away from exposing the realities that we all know, but might not always be willing to admit. It forces us to face the fact that life doesn't always go according to plan, much like our couple just living their lives without any grand romantic gestures.

In essence, to me, NHK was like a wake-up call. A reminder that life is what we make of it and that we have the power to shape our own destinies.

This is exactly why I fell in love with NHK. It refused to compromise itself to feed us with satisfaction just because the show was coming to a close. Instead, it stayed true to itself right up until the very end, unapologetically delivering the harsh truths of life. The show was depressing. Not in the usual tragic way, it was more of a; so that's how life is huh? Kind of way.

I think I'm feeling it now. I've been holding up till now to finish writing this but it's too late. I can hear it, the whispered chanting of Puru Puru Pururin from everywhere around me. It's only a matter of time now. Till I... till... I... Puru... Puru... Puru Puru Pururin