~ Favorite Japanese Films ~

What can I even say about this film? It's such an underrated masterpiece. The cinematography of this film is one that blows me away every time I rewatch it. Although some may think it's is a bit long, this film is really a journey. The way the color pops although the underlying plot is sad is a beautiful contrast. And how could I forget.. THE MUSIC?? The fact I can't stream this whole OST on spotify is a crime ?!! If you love musicals this is one for youuu!!

I can't look at a key the same anymore LOL...  Taking a look at the beginning and end of the film, I would've never expected that outcome. This was so good I had to show it to my friends, and they loved it too. The amount of symbolism and just overall good plot had me glued to the screen for the whole runtime.  Def recommend this one, could never go wrong with films from Toshiaki Toyoda!

Another Toshiaki Toyoda entry on this list, as you can see, probably one of my favorite Japanese directors. Although this film is slow, the last 20 mins is where it shines. It gave me so much anxiety and I had no idea what direction it would go. I love how this film depicts teen angst and mental health without directly talking about it (through actions, etc.) It really takes the viewer along for the ride and experience these teens sometimes, questionable decisions.

I don't know .. something about this one just processes a lot for me. First watch I cried (as older japanese films/dramas tend to do for me) Even though the film has a overall sad plot, it's one of my comfort films. Now you're probably like ..  how can something sad find it's way to be one of your comfort films?? I'm not really sure either LOLL .. The main character Teru is just adorable and I think that's what provides the comfort aspect at least for me. Although he went and goes through a lot in the film, he finds a way to be positive about it all. This film is a slow burner, and as someone who isn't really a fan of them, this one had a good pace. Having  Koyuki and Yosuke as the mains was a great casting decision. And lastly.. I can't forget.. THE OST! I feel like people might see a pattern with everything I like and yesss the OST makes suchhh a big difference in every film. This one thank GOD is available to listen to on spotify!!

Another slow burner on the list. It had it's moments where it lost me but in the outcome, it made me put it on this list. I went into this film with a little bias I'll say tho as I love Ryuhei and Eita. 2 of my fav japanese actors right on one screen *side-eye* ... couldn't resist. The drama is def better tho as it has more character development. 

While the first film had more of a dark undertone, this sequel has more of a lighthearted feel to it! Because of this, this film has more of the feel that the drama has and I enjoyed it bit more than the first film hence the .5 difference.

A really slow burner .. but the OST is 10/10 on this one.. so it makes the movie for me. The story is also pretty good too !