simple, refined storytelling
I picked this one up on a whim, based on a couple of gifsets that caught my eye, and I really enjoyed it! This story a slow, thoughtful character piece that works with a very simple (though not unimportant) central conflict. The characters were charming and funny, with plenty of good chemistry to propel the story. The story-line was decently constructed and well suited to its short runtime, despite some moments that were a little more awkward than they needed to be. Like most JBL, the production design was nothing flashy, but competent and correct for the story. I enjoyed watching this story circle and am leaving with a great fondness for these characters.
-The Full Review-
STORY:
What I really liked about this story is how pared down the conflict was. One simple decision representative of their characters respective weaknesses, followed by years of silence and a chance to start again. The crafting of the story around this question was masterful, and the staging of the ending really satisfied this arc.
What didn't work so well was the actual construction of these pieces. The pacing was occasionally odd and the story didn't quiet nail achieving a consistent tone throughout. I was somewhat of a let down to see the characters lose some of their humor in the end, and it cause the show to feel more disappointing than it actually was.
ACTING:
I loved these actors. I have nothing but praise for them. The subtlety to Robin's performance that was beautiful, and I truly enjoyed watching him have quiet, sad conversations with because so much was going on underneath. I also thought that he and his younger counterpart built a very believable character arc of growth together.
In contrast, Makoto brought an energy and movement to the story without going over the top or looking absurd next to Robin's subtlety. You could feel his youth, even in adulthood, in his restlessness and lack of confidence. The two styles played very well with each other and revealed the joy in the relationship, even as they were very rarely happy on screen.
PRODUCTION:
The production value of this show was solid, but I think they could have been a bit more creative, even without losing the realism. It often felt like we'd missed opportunities to tell more of a story or reveal characters by maintaining such simple design choices. Despite this, it worked. It told the story effectively and never detracted or caused confusion. I just wish they'd done... more.
INTIMACY:
I liked the intimacy in this show. I think it suited the characters and was used sparingly and when required by the plot to good effect. I also really enjoyed the threat of intimacy with other characters. Characters who know Takashi as an adult better than Akihiro are threatening to him, whether or not that intimacy was sexual. The series handled that distance and struggle well, allowing it to be mature and multifaceted (and not just about sex). I really enjoyed it.
In all, I would easily recommend this show, though I think some people looking for a more dramatic title may find it's simplicity underwhelming.
-The Full Review-
STORY:
What I really liked about this story is how pared down the conflict was. One simple decision representative of their characters respective weaknesses, followed by years of silence and a chance to start again. The crafting of the story around this question was masterful, and the staging of the ending really satisfied this arc.
What didn't work so well was the actual construction of these pieces. The pacing was occasionally odd and the story didn't quiet nail achieving a consistent tone throughout. I was somewhat of a let down to see the characters lose some of their humor in the end, and it cause the show to feel more disappointing than it actually was.
ACTING:
I loved these actors. I have nothing but praise for them. The subtlety to Robin's performance that was beautiful, and I truly enjoyed watching him have quiet, sad conversations with because so much was going on underneath. I also thought that he and his younger counterpart built a very believable character arc of growth together.
In contrast, Makoto brought an energy and movement to the story without going over the top or looking absurd next to Robin's subtlety. You could feel his youth, even in adulthood, in his restlessness and lack of confidence. The two styles played very well with each other and revealed the joy in the relationship, even as they were very rarely happy on screen.
PRODUCTION:
The production value of this show was solid, but I think they could have been a bit more creative, even without losing the realism. It often felt like we'd missed opportunities to tell more of a story or reveal characters by maintaining such simple design choices. Despite this, it worked. It told the story effectively and never detracted or caused confusion. I just wish they'd done... more.
INTIMACY:
I liked the intimacy in this show. I think it suited the characters and was used sparingly and when required by the plot to good effect. I also really enjoyed the threat of intimacy with other characters. Characters who know Takashi as an adult better than Akihiro are threatening to him, whether or not that intimacy was sexual. The series handled that distance and struggle well, allowing it to be mature and multifaceted (and not just about sex). I really enjoyed it.
In all, I would easily recommend this show, though I think some people looking for a more dramatic title may find it's simplicity underwhelming.
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