An 8-part Netflix Japanese drama titled Beyond Goodbye is a beautiful exploration of hope and living in the present. The story opens in a picturesque setting that quickly takes a tragic turn, initiated by an unexpected marriage proposal from Yusuke, a young man on a bus journeying up a mountain.
Just as he proposes to his beloved Saeko, disaster strikes in the form of an avalanche, resulting in Yusuke sacrificing his life to protect her. Following this heartbreaking event, his heart is transplanted into Kazuma, a man in need of a new heart, who finds himself burdened with Yusuke’s memories.
Beyond Goodbye celebrates hope and cherishing life despite heartbreak (Photo: Beyond Goodbye/Telepack)Although the plot may sound deeply emotional, the series serves as a cheerful reminder to trust our instincts, embrace new relationships, and cherish the single life we have. While it’s a bit disappointing that Kazuma’s wife, Miki, is depicted negatively to justify his emotional infidelity, the conclusion of the series softens her character, portraying her as simply human.
As the story progresses, Kazuma discovers that the heart transplant is failing, leaving him with little time to live. Meanwhile, Saeko, after a close encounter with a wild bear and a moment of intimacy with Kazuma, decides it’s best for her to move on rather than continue their complex relationship. This brings us to the final moments of Beyond Goodbye.
Why Does Kazuma Go To Hawaii?
As the final episode opens, Saeko is flourishing in Hawaii, appearing genuinely happy until an unexpected phone call disrupts her peace. To her surprise, Kazuma appears at Hiro’s coffee plantation, claiming to be recovering, yet revealing that he will soon forget Yusuke’s memories. He expresses his desire to spend time with Saeko while still embodying Yusuke.
The phone call that initially unsettled Saeko turns out to be from Kazuma’s wife, Miki, who ominously informs Saeko of Kazuma’s impending death, revealing her resentment towards him and Saeko. While Miki’s actions might seem cruel and driven by jealousy, they finally serve to enlighten Saeko, who deserves the truth.
Nevertheless, Saeko chooses to play along with Miki’s plan, acting oblivious to Kazuma’s condition. The two share joyful moments together, yet Saeko finds herself weeping at night, grappling with the reality of losing another love.
Her feelings for Kazuma stem not merely from his connection to Yusuke, but from the genuine bond they’ve formed, which began independently of his heart transplant. Even in moments of sadness, Kazuma offers his heartbeat to Saeko as she rests her head on his chest, creating a poignant moment of connection.
Does Kazuma love Saeko?
Kazuma and Saeko make their way to the airport, where he reminisces about Yusuke’s first meeting with her. He recalls how Yusuke noticed her sadness and played a cheerful piano tune to lift her spirits. In a touching moment, Kazuma plays a melody on the piano that spells out “smile,” serving as his farewell.
Both Yusuke and Kazuma share a common desire for Saeko to remain happy, even in their absence. Interestingly, Kazuma’s moment of forgetfulness regarding Yusuke’s memories is mirrored by his inability to recall how to play the piano.
While he eventually returns to his wife, it’s evident that he has deep feelings for both women. Kazuma’s affection for Saeko appears to stem from his true self rather than being overshadowed by Yusuke’s memories.
Why Does Miki Call Saeko Over?
The series concludes not with a heart-wrenching farewell but rather a bittersweet resolution. Kazuma passes away in a wheelchair, holding an apple—a stark reminder of the imperfections that lingered within him, even as a new heart beat within.
The sight of a rainbow in Hawaii signals to Saeko that Yusuke is truly gone. Following her work at Hiro’s plantation, Saeko prepares to leave Hawaii and explore new opportunities with coffee growers worldwide.
A tender heartbeat offers solace in a fleeting yet unforgettable connection (Photo: Beyond Goodbye/Telepack)She acknowledges that every journey must conclude but emphasizes the importance of cherishing the memories, as she knows she can count on Hiro as her guardian angel. Back at Kaedo’s café, Saeko proposes a pact that they should avoid falling for the same man in the future, a gesture that recognizes Kaedo’s struggles while offering him comfort.
Meanwhile, the coffee plant in the café begins to bear fruit, echoing Yusuke’s earlier predictions. This scene serves as a metaphor for human resilience, illustrating that we can thrive with the right support and love, just as the coffee plant flourishes outside its natural environment.
In a poignant twist, Saeko receives a message from Miki, inviting her to meet. Miki explains that it’s harvest season, and she wishes to discuss a debt, likely related to Kazuma’s death anniversary. This annual meeting represents a chance for both women to bond over their shared love for Kazuma while also preserving Yusuke’s memory.
In the end, there is a sense of hope as everyone looks toward the future, understanding that although Kazuma and Yusuke have passed, their legacies will continue to live on through Saeko, who vows to keep smiling.
Beyond Goodbye beautifully illustrates the themes of grief and letting go. Saeko’s journey reflects a personal evolution, demonstrating that it’s possible to cherish past loves while moving forward to embrace new relationships. The narrative conveys the essential truth that while one may never fully forget their first love, the key to living is learning to survive and thrive.
