I discovered this little film just this year through Tumblr. Though I wasn't very eager to check it out at first, the highly-positive reviews by both GoatJesus and KrisPNatz of YouTube convinced me otherwise
What a warm, funny, loving, engaging story it turned out to be! It may be simple (both story- and art style-wise), but it was worth the $3.99 rental on Amazon Prime -- I might even buy it at some point!
The two leads, Hikaru Kusakabe and Licht Sajo, may be polar opposites, but their chemistry is so enthralling, that I ended up rooting for them! Yes, Kusakabe is very forward with his advances towards Sajo, kissing him even if he says "no." But about halfway through, he seems to grow to respect both Sajo's boundaries and protests more. Not only that, but it's Sajo who begins to initiate his affections as well. Although the ending is slightly open-ended in regards to the boys' futures after graduating, it's still definitely happy, with the two together, willing to work through their own flaws.
As for issues I'd have with the film: As a music fan, I kind of wish that we saw more of Kusakabe's musicianship (that might be something that the manga/anime, Given, will make up for!). I was also confused as to why the incident involving the teacher, Mr. Hara, trying to seduce Sajo was left unreported. In fact, Kusakabe later goes to said teacher for advice on how to have sex as if they're good friends!
All in all, this film touched my heart and lifted my spirits, which is definitely what I feel like I needed during quarantine.
What a warm, funny, loving, engaging story it turned out to be! It may be simple (both story- and art style-wise), but it was worth the $3.99 rental on Amazon Prime -- I might even buy it at some point!
The two leads, Hikaru Kusakabe and Licht Sajo, may be polar opposites, but their chemistry is so enthralling, that I ended up rooting for them! Yes, Kusakabe is very forward with his advances towards Sajo, kissing him even if he says "no." But about halfway through, he seems to grow to respect both Sajo's boundaries and protests more. Not only that, but it's Sajo who begins to initiate his affections as well. Although the ending is slightly open-ended in regards to the boys' futures after graduating, it's still definitely happy, with the two together, willing to work through their own flaws.
As for issues I'd have with the film: As a music fan, I kind of wish that we saw more of Kusakabe's musicianship (that might be something that the manga/anime, Given, will make up for!). I was also confused as to why the incident involving the teacher, Mr. Hara, trying to seduce Sajo was left unreported. In fact, Kusakabe later goes to said teacher for advice on how to have sex as if they're good friends!
All in all, this film touched my heart and lifted my spirits, which is definitely what I feel like I needed during quarantine.