Tag: Music

“Doukyuusei: A Heartwarming Tale of First Love”

When it comes to shounen-ai (boys’ love) anime, Doukyuusei (also known as Classmates) stands out as a gem that’s both tender and genuine. Directed by Shôko Nakamura and animated by A-1 Pictures, this 2016 film adaptation of Asumiko Nakamura’s manga has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. It’s a story about two high school boys—Rihito Sajou, the quiet honor student, and Hikaru Kusakabe, the rebellious rock band member—who find love in the most unexpected way.

A Story That Feels Real

What makes Doukyuusei so special is its simplicity. Unlike many BL stories that rely on exaggerated drama or problematic tropes, this film focuses on the quiet, everyday moments that build a relationship. From their awkward first interactions to the sweet, tentative steps toward intimacy, Rihito and Hikaru’s romance feels organic. Fans on MyAnimeList rave about how “adorable” and “heartwarming” their dynamic is, with one user gushing, “I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time!”

The film’s pacing is deliberate, letting the characters breathe and grow naturally. A standout scene for many viewers is the sandbox moment, where Rihito and Hikaru share a quiet, intimate conversation. It’s a small moment, but it speaks volumes about their connection. Another fan favorite is the motorcycle kiss, which one reviewer described as “everything—hilarious, sweet, and perfectly in character.”

Art and Atmosphere

The animation style is another highlight. A-1 Pictures opted for a soft, watercolor-like aesthetic that complements the story’s gentle tone. The backgrounds are lush, and the character designs stay true to the manga’s unique charm. Fans praise the film’s “flowy” animation and the way it captures the characters’ emotions without over-the-top theatrics.

The voice acting is also top-notch, with Hiroshi Kamiya (Rihito) and Kenji Nojima (Hikaru) delivering performances that feel authentic. One fan noted, “Kamiya’s voice is so soothing, and Nojima brings just the right amount of energy to Hikaru.”

What Fans Are Saying

The online discourse around Doukyuusei is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it “the best shounen-ai adaptation in years.” Here’s a snapshot of fan reactions:

• “This movie was so cute ;0; the romance made my heart melt!”
• “It’s refreshing to see a BL story without unnecessary drama or toxic tropes.”
• “The ending was a bit open, but it left me wanting more—in a good way!”

Some criticisms include the omission of certain manga chapters that delve deeper into Rihito’s backstory and his relationship with Hara-sensei. One fan lamented, “They cut out important parts of Rihito’s characterization, which is a shame.” Still, most agree that the film does justice to the source material.

Final Thoughts

Doukyuusei is a rare BL anime that prioritizes emotional authenticity over flashy storytelling. It’s a film that lingers in your heart long after the credits roll, leaving you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Whether you’re a longtime BL fan or new to the genre, this movie is a must-watch.

As one fan perfectly put it: “This is how you make a good romance story. I wish there was more BL anime like this.”

So, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, sincere, and beautifully animated, Doukyuusei is the perfect pick. And who knows? Maybe we’ll get a sequel someday—because, let’s be honest, we all want more of Rihito and Hikaru’s love story.

Rating: 9/10
Fluffy, heartfelt, and utterly charming.

Given the Movie 3 ~ To The Sea: A Heartfelt Farewell to a Beloved Series

If you’ve been following Given since its humble beginnings as a manga or its emotional anime adaptation, then Given the Movie 3 ~ To The Sea is the bittersweet finale you’ve been waiting for. Directed by Noriko Hashimoto and produced by Lerche, this film serves as the grand conclusion to the story of Mafuyu, Ritsuka, Haruki, and Akihiko—a group of young musicians navigating love, loss, and the power of music. Released in 2024, the movie picks up after the events of Hiiragi Mix, diving deeper into the relationships that fans have grown to adore.

The Story: A Symphony of Emotions

Given has always been about more than just music—it’s about the raw, unfiltered emotions that come with growing up and falling in love. To The Sea doesn’t shy away from this. The film focuses on the evolving dynamics between the characters, particularly Mafuyu and Ritsuka, whose bond has been the heart of the series. Fans were especially moved by their performance of Fuyu no Hanashi, a song that carries heavy emotional weight from the series’ earlier episodes. As one MyAnimeList user put it:
“The songs that Centimillimental composed really pushed the story another step further, and the VAs did a great job with them. I always wished to see Ritsuka sing with Mafuyu, so it was great to see them perform together.”

The film doesn’t just rely on nostalgia, though. It introduces new layers to the characters’ relationships, particularly exploring themes of closure and moving forward. Whether it’s Haruki and Akihiko’s complicated romance or the quieter moments between Mafuyu and Ritsuka, every scene feels purposeful and poignant.

The Music: The Soul of Given

Music has always been the backbone of Given, and To The Sea is no exception. The soundtrack, composed by Centimillimental, is nothing short of breathtaking. Fans have praised how the songs elevate the storytelling, with one commenter saying:
“Given maintaining its track record of making me sob with a song ;A; what a way to end the series. Simply amazing.”

The film’s musical performances are more than just interludes—they’re emotional climaxes that tie the characters’ journeys together. The parallels between past and present performances (like Fuyu no Hanashi) add a layer of depth that long-time fans will appreciate.

The Animation: A Visual Love Letter

Studio Lerche has outdone themselves with the animation in To The Sea. The film’s visuals are stunning, capturing the quiet intensity of the characters’ emotions. From the soft lighting during intimate conversations to the dynamic energy of the band’s performances, every frame feels carefully crafted. The attention to detail in the character expressions—especially Mafuyu’s—makes the emotional beats hit even harder.

Fan Reactions: A Mix of Tears and Gratitude

The Given fandom has been vocal about their love for the series, and To The Sea has only amplified those feelings. On MyAnimeList, fans shared their emotional responses:
– “It was so beautiful… Given maintaining its track record of making me sob with a song ;A; what a way to end the series. Simply amazing.”
– “ぼくがそばにいる。 ぼくの魂はいつも君とともにある。” (Translation: “I am by your side. My soul is always with you.”)

These comments reflect the deep connection fans have with the characters and the story. Many praised the film for staying true to the manga’s spirit while adding its own cinematic flair.

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Goodbye?

Given the Movie 3 ~ To The Sea is a fitting end to a series that has touched so many hearts. It doesn’t just wrap up loose ends—it celebrates the journey of its characters and the fans who have followed them. While some might argue that the pacing could have been tighter in places, the emotional payoff is undeniable.

If you’re a fan of Given, this movie is a must-watch. And if you’re new to the series? Well, you’re in for an emotional rollercoaster. Just make sure you have tissues handy.

Rating: 9.5/10 – A near-perfect conclusion to a beloved story.

What did you think of the film? Let’s discuss in the comments!

P.S. If you haven’t listened to the soundtrack yet, do yourself a favor and check it out. Trust me, you won’t regret it.