Kano is courted by numerous other men but according to some viewers of the movie he only really loves Soji. I'm not sure exactly where that idea comes from except from possible pointers towards the end of the movie. But if true, this would be highly ironic, given that a point is made of Soji being fiercely antipathetic to same sex love. Earlier in the movie it is specifically stated Kano and Tashiro are an item. So why does he accept the command to kill him? This in turn is because the powers-that-be suspect Tashiro of committing murders from jealousy. But as the movie concludes it seems rather more likely that Soji may have been responsible due to his hatred of same sex love, in which case, if Kano loved Soji, it may make sense that he killed Tashiro to cover up for Soji who was actually the one he loved. Was Soji running back claiming he'd forgotten something really to get away to murder someone else - even perhaps Kano? It all gets really impenetrable. I suppose you can reach your own conclusions depending on which pieces of the jigsaw you select. The above is only predicated on the emphasis some comments have put on Soji and Kano's supposed love for him. But I'm not sure I accept that anyway. Still, it's a beautifully produced, atmospheric movie with an androgynous and beautiful lead. Alas youth is fated to be cut down for even the most beautiful like the cherry tree at the end of the film. I think that's a common metaphor in Japanese culture.
PS I have never found this movie available free/subtitled online. Just spend the $2 and buy it - it's worth it.
This was a good drama with some very emotional, but also heartwarming moments. It also got a serious message across about the problems of growing up part of a gay minority - prejudice, bullying, alienation, just making connections so you can live your life. Pity it was spoilt for me by the tacky ending. I mean, come on, there's a limit to how far you can make up with a guy and his girlfriend/wife who trampled all over your deepest feelings. You can only move on by leaving the unrequited love interest behind! Zhengxi acted the part well, he also has a very sweet expression! I also liked his childhood girlfriend and the guy he finally hooked up with (much better looks than Tao Ye). The Tao Ye character I didn't like at all in the latter part. A true friend would have left Zhengxi alone to get on with his life.
Obviously designed to be a shocker but I found the storyline hard to believe, with big gaps and how it got to the denouement frankly a mess. Like a pulp crime fiction novel it led you first up one false trail, then another but the whole thing lacked subtlety and the character development that would have justified the final shock ending.
PS I have never found this movie available free/subtitled online. Just spend the $2 and buy it - it's worth it.