Completed in 2021 (including source)

Completed - August 17th 2021

Finally completed a kdrama in a long time lmfao

The portrayal of autism felt authentic and not over-exaggerated, so kudos to the writing and actor. I loved the dynamic bond between the main trio of Geu-ru, Sang-gu and Na-mu. 

Each episode had its special story, and it's been a long time since I've watched a series that hit a home run on my emotional buttons. I was surprised to have found the show is based on true stories which makes these episodes more impactful. 

Despite the shorter episodes than the usual kdrama, Move to heaven clearly addressed backstories and gradual character development in a consistent structure, especially for Sang-gu, who grows throughout the series. Beautiful camera shots and colour schemes, including aerial shots, were used. The ost may not be unique, but it was appropriate and fit the given scenes. 

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - Feb 8th 2021

Breaking down the childhood trope

This was a rollercoaster of a ride!

This film had a similar tone to Kimi No Na Wa minus the spiritual element. The film's pacing started real fast but gradually became consistent and took its time building and developing the characters.

I loved the film for exploring each characters life journeys. It did not hesitate to show realistic obstacles of children and adults within society. The raw emotions and music played a huge role in bringing a strong, lasting impact on the story. I also appreciated when the film gives a clear backstory and glimpses between the characters.

The chemistry was clearly present in both Komatsu and Suda's performance. The supporting cast nailed their roles and left some strong, lasting moments.

I was surprised the casting director managed to find a child actress resembling Komatsu-san (or it could be make-up).

The story could be rather depressing because it takes an authentic approach and long duration, which affected my rewatch value. Despite that, I still found the film to be quite inspiring and informative.

If you are interested in a film that explores the themes of self-discovery and gradual slow romantic build-up, then I would recommend this film.

Blu-ray and DVD (Softsubs available from Choco)

Completed - June 30th 2021

Ah yes, finally Hashimoto-san is cast in a dark and serious role. It was refreshing to see all main leads cast in a different role other than shoujo dramas. 

I quite liked the pacing of the show. There wasn't a dull beginning and the ending was nicely wrapped up. 

The story structure and character direction reminded me of The Talented Mr Ripley. However, the main lead starts to realise there needs to be an end to break the loop.  

I may not rewatch this because of how heavy the tone can be, but it was definitely one of the intriguing shows seen this year. 

Stream on Viki (Eng subs)

Fansub provided by subie06

Completed - October 3rd 2021

Although nothing new, interesting concept. I wish we could have got more backstory on the presumed antagonist. Guessing they are building up for a new season. Prepare to see red minions be flooding the socials during Halloween.

Netflix (Eng subs/dubs) 

Completed - Jan 5th 2021

As a manga reader, I loved this film. I appreciated the additional scenes branched out from the manga. Before reading the manga or watching the film, the story seemed very typical slice of life shounen-ai, but I was proven wrong.

The story does focus on the relationship between Mitsuomi (Furukawa Yuuki) and Yamato (Ryusei Ryo); however, it also explores the main and supporting characters as individuals and gives us an insight into their internal obstacles and struggles. It also includes the themes of family, friendship and goal searching. 

The character interactions and chemistry were excellent; I didn’t sense awkwardness or forcefulness in the cast members performances. 

There were a few beautiful cinematography. However, some scenes had shaky camera movements and dull lighting. The music had its moments, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. 

Overall, I would recommend the film if seeking a light-hearted romance with a slow-build up and relaxing setting. For a more in-depth character perspective, I would recommend reading the manga.

Netflix Japan

Blu-ray 

Hardsubs provided via Ichihachi

Completed - July 1st 2021

Although the story pattern somewhat remains predictable, I loved the inclusion of Yuri. She was a challenge to Nanno and a mortal awakening for her. 

The ending teases at a potential season three, so I would be interested to see another season for more backstory on Nanno. 

The opening was also artistically pleasing, enjoyed it!

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - July 5th 2021

This was a nice documentary. The structure of the documentary felt like highlights rather than deep exploration, but overall it was an engaging documentary. I was able to learn more about one of my fave kpop groups, Blackpink.

Netflix (Subs)

Completed - July 4th 2021

As an anime first viewer, I was really hesitant to delve into this series especially the live-action film. 

Great performance from the cast. I loved Furukawa-san's narration and there were so many good quotes in there. The production quality is also top tier as well along with fitting ost. 

The pacing was so-so and in some episodes I found it to be slow, but overall, I liked how they added something new to the ending while making it a memorable one. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

ED Song - In the display - Akane

Completed - July 5th 2021

My first impression summarised: Korean Guardians of the galaxy 

The acting, production quality and CGI was top-notch. However, the story lacked a sense of depth, especially with the antagonists motive. It felt very surface level. Other than that it was a fun and thrilling binge. 

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - March 9th 2021

This was definitely one of the best and interesting approaches to a zombie genre. 

The concept reminds me a little of Zombieland.  An average guy with low self-esteem who grows to become a badass shooter. The part where the zombies all have personalities reminds me of the clown in the first Zombieland film. 

I was expecting to see more scenes of Hiromi being a badass, but I guess the story focuses more on Hideo's growth in his confidence over time. 

Nagasawa Masami also plays a badass in this film. This is the third time I've seen her, including Kingdom and The Confidence Man JP. 

On Netflix Japan (Eng subbed)

Blu-ray (Eng subbed)

Completed - July 1st 2021

Great performance from the cast. Consistent pacing and build-up from past to present. Felt bad for Kido (of course the others too). I legit forgot this was a revenge film, so despite how I saw the twist coming it was still pretty good.

Decent production quality and nice use of colour and symbolism. 

Netflix Japan (Jpn subs)

Stream on DTV

Eng fansubs provided by SkewdS (Softsubs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - June 27th 2021

“Karma is the consequence of an action”

Review

Netflix (Eng Dub/Subs)

Completed - June 21st 2021

I believe this is one of the dramas that made me become invested this year. 

The whole journey with these characters made me reflect on appreciating what we have now and cherishing the important people and moments in our life. 

I didn't expect this rom-com drama to turn out to take an emotionally sad yet wholesome story. The chaotic moments in this drama were also unforgettable. 

Raw (Watched via NSBC or TVER with VPN)

Eng subs by Ume chan

Completed - April 19th 2021

The story was very relaxing and explored many characters situations and struggles. 

The theme of 'dream' is often used throughout the series. The overcoming and striving for ones own dreams I found really inspiring. 

I believe this show has a similar story pattern to Aoki. However, this show did a better job exploring enough of the main leads and guest characters for me to become invested and interested. 

The conclusion tied the show very nicely and left me feeling more interested to see how the story would continue. 

Netflix Japan 

Viki (Eng subs)

Hulu (Jp subs)

Blu-ray (Softsubs by Irozukusubs)

Completed - June 23rd 2021

Very chill and great portrayal of a middle-aged gay couple.

Loved how the comedic and serious moments balanced out throughout the series.  Nice performance from the main leads to the parents.  Also, the food featured in this series had me appreciating them more during my fasting (while binge-watching the show). 

Will be interested to see what the sequel film will explore next with these characters. 

Netflix Japan 

Blu-ray & DVD (CDJapan)

Raw provided by Siiri (including Eng subs)

Completed - December 25th 2021

The characters and story stayed true to the source material, so kudos to the producers. 

However, not much is fleshed out due to the short number of episodes. 

Ost and cinematography worked well together in some scenes. 

TVER (JPN subs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - October 12th 2021

The story structure and characters have similarities to Sankaku mado however, considering this is a series, it has more opportunities to explore and expand these areas. 

The characters are fun to watch, but some episodes felt draggy and predictable. 

I am curious to see more of Takatsuki's backstory.  He was the scene-stealer while Fukumachi had a relatively decent story.

TVER (JPN Sub)

Hardsubs (Eng subs) 

Completed - August 1st 2021 

First viewing Rating - 8.0/10

A decent performance from the cast with consistent story pacing. 

The music was meh, but the film quality was present. 

First viewing through a family friend

Completed - July 15th 2021

Kissing for business ;)

Wow, this film was more interesting than I had initially imagined. The premise has a slight supernatural theme to it where Kasane and Nina switch faces (and personalities). The whole character arc of Kasane was chaotic and eerie. It made me feel a bit bad for Nina's character as her life, her identity was slowly being taken over. 

Although I found the story, acting and ost very good, I wish we got to see more of the characters' backstories. However, I soon realise that there is so much creators who could cram in under 2-3 hours duration.  The eerie insanity and identity obsession from Kasane got me keen to see a sequel film. I wish to know more about the continuation and the outcome of Nina's life. 

Overall, the film pacing was decent but rushed towards the third act. The strong point of this film was the performance of the two female leads, Tsuchiya and Yoshine-san. 

Stream on Amazon Prime (Subs)

DTV

ED Soundtrack: Aimer - Black Bird

Completed - July 9th 2021

Dropped at EP1 - 2015   Picked it up - Jul 7th 2021

I'm a fan of the original manga/anime including the early live-action film trilogy so, I had low expectations when the drama series was released. I had dropped this series while it was airing back in 2015. However, I came back to it because of the positive reviews and comments. This was an intriguing take on the death note story. The long duration and build-up unravelled the insanity which Kira had took over Light and it's shown quite clearly here.

At first, I did not like the direction on Light's character as his personality was altered to an emotional and impulsive guy rather than the calm smart type. As the story progressed, I became more invested and appreciated his character direction. It made me believe Light can be based on a real person. While I've gotten used to Light's character, I didn't quite enjoy the direction on L. The changes from a  calm and mysterious detective was turned into a cocky clean freak character. I found myself surprised to have rooted for Light rather than L which is a first.

Kubota did a great job conveying the different sides of Light/Kira. The voice and facial expressions were both terrifying and convincing.  The supporting cast did a good job portraying their characters. Of course, some cast was over the top, but that may be the Japanese acting style or direction.

CGI and music were not spectacular, but decent enough to match the drama's tone.

Raw (Eng subs) via Nyaa or HULU Japan

Completed - July 16th 2021

Loved how this show didn't take itself too seriously. It took a while for me to get invested for the first few episodes. However, the chaotic and bubbly friendship dynamics made each episode interesting and fun.

Stream on Amazon Prime JP

Eng Fansubs provided by ExiaRevival (EP1-4) & Yanez (EP5-7)

Completed - April 2nd 2021

Added Review

Blu-ray from Amazon & Tokyo MX (Softsubs provided via Ichihachi)

Stream it on TELASA

Completed - July 2nd 2021

Probably one of the films that had me engaged from start to finish. 

Fun and thrilling action and straightforward film.  However, not enough depth or built upon the characters backgrounds. 

Overall, a story of family and brotherhood bond. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - Jan 22nd 2021

Some of the scenes left in the director's cut could have benefited the 4-episode drama series. 

Strong impacts in performance and film stay true to the source material.

Stream on Viki (Eng subbed)

Blu-ray and DVD (No subs)

Completed - June 28th 2021

Didn't expect myself to finish this in one binge. At first, the first few episodes were slow, but it got intriguing after ep2. 

The concept and story structure eerily reminds me of Gantz. It's scary to think a survival game could easily replace and remove you from your reality. 

The acting was convincing compared to your usual all-female cast dramas. I actually enjoyed this series. 

Bandai (Eng subs)

Completed - June 20th 2021

Added Review

Blu-ray and DVD (CDJapan and YesAsia)

English subs provided via Subscene or Mirukukohii

Completed - Mar 23rd 2021

My first impression going into the first episode, I thought the story would explore the roots of Dr Shuto's past and how the zombies (golems) came into existence. 

This 10 episode series shows scenarios of obstacles that challenge the humanity of these characters. 

If you are seeking a zombie genre that's full of action-packed thrills, while this show includes some of those, it may not be your forte. The series focuses more on the human elements rather than the zombies (golems). 

Personally, I had not shipped anyone, but I could see people's reason for shipping some of the pairings that were shown. 

I ranked this show an 8 because the story is still uncompleted. 

Also, some plotholes needed to be answered. 

Hulu Japan

TVER (with VPN, Softsubs by Manx-cat on  d-addict)

Completed - June 26th 2021

As an anime fan, I was surprised with the level of faithfulness the series had on the source. 

A bit cheesy at times with the acting, but the setting, costume and effects fit the mood. 

Raw (NSBC and Amazon Prime JP)

Eng subs provided by SkewdS

Completed - June 23rd 2021

This was a nice special episode! It brought more insight into the supporting characters and the relationship of the main pairing. Also, the food and cooking!

Blu-ray and DVD (CDJapan)

Raw provided by Siiri (including Eng subs) 

Completed - July 5th 2021

A film based on a true story. Although the story was very slow and straightforward,  loved the message of friendship. The film made me crave for some ramen :)

Hardsubs provided by RJGman56 

Completed - Mar 26th 2021

A lot of emotional rollercoasters. 

Hotta Mayu as the FL nailed her performance in the humourous, tense and emotional scenes. 

In a span of 60 mins, we get to see many of Tamaki and Satoshi's perspective while also includes the mum's pov. The Dad is given a few moments throughout the episode, but he gets the shortest screen presence compared to other characters. 

The key topics in this special would include family acceptance. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - Mar 30th 2021

Fun characters

Breaking of the fourth wall was a brilliant concept

Very surface level character exploration 

Wouldn't mind a season 2 

WETV (Eng subs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - April 5th 2021

I loved the action scenes

Storywise it's a bit short, and it got me curious to know more about the backstories of our main characters. If given more depth, the stake and pressure of the FL would have been more convincing.

I wouldn't mind seeing a full-length drama series or film. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - Jan 27th 2021

This show manages to show consistency with multiple perspectives and doesn't hold back to touch upon teen struggles.

As a recent uni graduate, I found myself resonating with some of the characters. More specifically, Junta and Hiranuma. They're both finding ways on how to approach the real world. Also, seeking interest to take part in society. 

The performance flowed well with the story while some moments were passable. 

I believe this short series could relate to many people, not just teens but also adults who may experience some internal struggles. 

Official Youtube (Raw no subs)

Hardsubs from RJGman56

Completed - July 6th 2021

Quite an adventurous film with a determined female lead.  It was definitely a change in perspective on the livestock industry. There were a few English actors that overact, but it didn't distract from the overall viewing experience. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - Feb 1st 2021

Loved the musical features it brings out the magical feel of the film. 

Unfortunately, Nishina didn't get a huge part in the film compared to her anime version. 

Performance from the cast members was spot on to their characters. As an anime fan, I believe Mutsumi's character was the most accurate from voice to expression. 

Overall, it's a fun live-action adaptation with a sprinkle of realism and fantasy elements.  

Blu-ray & DVD (CDJapan)

Hardsubs from RJGman56

Completed - Jan 22nd 2021

This was rather sweet. I had an impression the story may involve unnecessary drama, but it didn't. There were some character growth and support. After finishing the film, Hamabe and Fukumoto's performance left a strong impression. Akaso had his moments, and I'm not sure if it was the directing, but some of Kitamura's scenes fell flat, specifically the emotional confession scenes.

Very slow-paced and takes its time developing the characters and story. 

Blu-ray and DVD from CDJapan (Softsubs from Irozukusubs)

Hardsubs from RJGman56

Completed - Feb 6th 2021

From the works of director Shimada Daisuke-san and film debut of Komatsu Nana. 

This short film gives us a glimpse of mundane everyday life with its authentic scenery and minimal background music. 

The special aspect of the film also includes Komatsu-san's performance. Her character is one of the few survivors of the 2011 Japan earthquake. 

The bond between Chimato and Sumire was a gradual built-up. Despite not much explored with Chimato's character, the later scenes give us an idea on his personality and mindset, which could be rather inspiring. 

Music - Fitting (Lyrics with aligned meanings to the characters)

Audio - Some background noise tends to overlap with the actors' lines which could be hard to hear. 

Story - Based on a true story, while the performance had raw emotions and scenes. 

DVD out of stock (no longer available online or in-store)

Made Softsubs available with RAW via Ichihachi

Completed - May 10th 2021

Very exciting and thrilling for the first five episodes (EP1~5)

The ending was a bit rushed, but the conclusion makes sense somewhat. 

Gotta say the ML's are very patient characters.

TVER (JPN subs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Eng Softsubs provided by Minamoto

Completed - June 29th 2021

I finally had the chance to binge-watch this series after showing interest in it for the past few years. 

Decent acting from the cast. The direction of the story and acting came across as cheesy at times, but I appreciated the gradual character growth from the characters. I also appreciated it for not going towards the random pointless killing spree. 

Out of the characters, I grew fond of Tsuchiya san's character, Kamiya.  Her level headed nature and growth was both inspiring and badass.  Morishige is also a character I found intriguing with her complex background and gradual growth from a raging individual to a caring friend. 

Raw (Bagikuy)

Eng subs provided by HPriest 

Completed - August 19th 2021

Great cast, but poor writing and little duration to expand on a  fully developed story

Blu-ray Raw (No Subs)

Completed - Jan 29th 2021

Nice action scenes and decent CGI. The performance from the cast didn't feel too overacted. The story felt a bit rushed, and some backstory that needed more depth. The film picked up my interest in the near ending scene and gave some dimensionality to the antagonist. Kudos.

Animelab  (Eng subs)

English Fansub provided by Irozukusubs

Netflix Japan 

Completed - Feb 1st 2021

The first 40 minutes was so-so, but the story gradually became interesting afterwards. Love the multi-languages it was nice seeing the actors make an effort to speak in their foreign languages. The editing, camerawork and production value is higher than the usual Japanese film so kudos. I gradually become fond of Kokuri, and she was a sweet character.

I have not seen any of the previous confidence man JP drama or films, but it was a nice watch.

Blu-ray and DVD (Softsubs from Choco)

Completed - July 9th 2021

The premise and plot structure were very similar to High and Low: The worst therefore my thoughts on this certain film didn't quite keep me interested. However, the action and cast were great.

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - December 19th 2021

This was a fun binge with silly moments between the characters. 

I appreciate the creators for sticking to the source material, however, I do wish there was more emotional exploration with Aoki and Ida's Pov. I also believe the side pairing of Hashimoto and Akkun could have been fleshed out further. Judging by the last episode it seems unlikely that they would continue with a season 2. It can be possible to have a film adaptation similar approach to Cherry Magic. 

Overall, the best chance for more character stories is to visit the manga. 

TVER (JPN SUBS) - VPN Needed 

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - August 21st 2021

The story stayed faithful to the original source, so kudos to that. 

The acting had its flaws, but it didn't stop me from looking forward to new episodes every week.

Crunchyroll (Eng subs)

WETV (Eng subs)

Completed - June 22nd 2021

This was pretty decent. The series had a chill vibe. I do wish some of the hobbies and interests of the young Shun and Nagisa would have been mentioned in the sequel film. Because of that the film and series feel completely separate. I felt bad for the girls and surprised me how supportive they turned out to be.

Stream on Viki (Eng subbed)

Completed - July 2nd 2021

It was alright. Great performance and production quality. I really loved the animation, but the story didn't quite keep my interest.

Blu-ray & DVD

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - May 30th 2021

Brilliant cast, but the pacing and execution of the story sometimes lost my interest.

I found the story format similar to a documentary as it had narration from Takumi's character, Kaoru, while the family grew in these time frames. 

Komatsu-san did a phenomenal job portraying a twisted yet complex character. 

Takumi is portraying his usual gloomy and soft-spoken character. 

Yoshizawa was very good at portraying a troubled character silently suffering his torment. 

The dog was so sweet! Another film similar to 'My dog Marley' centres on the canine bringing the family close and together. 

Blu-ray (English Softsubs provided by SkewedS)

Completed - July 24th 2021

It has a cool concept, but the overall film execution is missing some depth. I love the friendship dynamic and suspenseful moments, however, I wish to have seen more backstory on the chip and insomnia experiment. There were so many unanswered questions that left me feeling not fully satisfied.

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - July 17th 2021

Calm tone and slow-burn storytelling 

The story concept is an intriguing one, however, the film mainly relies on flashbacks which make the storytelling repetitive and less impactful. It got interesting when there was a conflict between the personalities, but it all fizzles out too quickly.

The film is very slow-paced and can be dull if you're excepting something suspenseful such as the American film, Split. I would consider this a slice of life and documentary themed film. 

Blu-ray and DVD (No subs)

Completed - June 27th 2021

Although nothing special, there's a decent performance from the cast 

The story is intriguing, but understanding the characters psychological perspective can be a mystery. 

Raw and English subs provided by Irozukusubs 

Completed - August 26th 2021

I haven't watched the drama series, so I went in this blind. 

The action and relationship dynamic were interestingly decent.  However, the plot revolving around the characters didn't quite stick. The ost had its ups and downs, but at least the shot scenes were nice to see. I also appreciated the call back on some scenes, such as the American documentary linking to the end scene. Overall, it's a fun, chill and slight action-packed popcorn film. Don't expect too much from it, though. 

Blu-ray Raw (No sub yet)

Completed - May 16th 2021

Slow-mo had some nice shots. 

The characters didn't really connect with me despite there being a good cast. 

The story was sometimes a bit hard to follow with the constant flashback and forth through present times. The first half was more exciting than the ending. 

The ending song was brilliant. 

Blu-ray (no subs)

Completed - July 10th 2021

Dropped - 2020  Picked up - Jul 2021

Welp, that was disturbing. It had a strange vibe of American Psycho and Beetlejuice.

The story pacing was slow, but it got slightly interesting in the third act. The acting was very over the top and made it hard to enjoy the film. Therefore, the rating is lowered. 

Netflix Japan (Jpn subs)

Completed - July 7th 2021

The story premises was interesting and we viewers are shown many cases of the supernatural phenomenon. Mostly targeting people with their own struggles (e.g. suicidal thoughts, depression, Jealousy etc). However, the film doesn't give enough room to get to know the characters, especially the main leads. We are given so little backstory on them the gradual build-up towards the climax fell weak. 

The visual effects and CGI are somewhat decent. The performance felt stiff for some of the supporting casts, but the main leads were able to keep the story engaging. 

I believe this film would have been better as a drama series similar to my thoughts on "The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window." Each side story was structured in an episodic format therefore, the obstacles the main female lead, Sayuri was solving felt very rushed. 

Watched it via DVD (eng subs) through my family's friends house

Completed - July 13th 2021

The premise was cliche, but the acting and action was nice!

If looking for something short to watch I would recommend it. However, its better to watch the series first (Kamen Rider Build) because it could help understand the characters' backstories. 

Netflix Japan (JPN Subs)

Completed - Dec 9th 2021 

Basically a recap of the previous 7 episodes. It was a binge watchable show, but they left out a lot of scenes for the side pairing and supporting characters. 

Viki (Eng subs)

TVER (Jpn subs)

Completed - Mar  14th 2021

I came across this drama on one of the no subs lists and was surprised to know it was a promo drama for singer MACO. 

I watched one of MACO's MVs back in 2018. It was called Sweet memory with a very similar concept of heartbreak and unrequited longing love. I wonder how much sadness MACO has experienced to produce these tragic love songs. 

The mini-series consists of three parts with under 10 mins. Although I felt the music's heart-aching tone to the acting, it didn't give me enough to become invested in the characters.  Overall, if you have short breaks and don't have enough time for a full-length drama, this may be an interesting watch. 

NOTE: All episodes are on MACO's official youtube channel (sadly, no English subs) 

I've been trying to add English subs directly onto her videos, but YouTube decided to remove community features; therefore, it's no longer an option.

Official Artist's MACO's YouTube  (Softsubs available via Ichihachi)

Completed - Jan 16th 2021

The short music video conveys a story between these two FL through music, camera shots, costume design and body language. 

The one down-side is the short duration. I would like to see more exploration of the two characters. 

Official Youtube (Eng subbed)

Competed - July 4th 2021

It was a fun short drama series, nothing much, really. 

Would recommend it for those who are looking for a short binge of 10 mins. 

Stream it on HULU Japan

Watched Raw 

Eng Fansubs provided by Monchi 

Completed - June 28th 2021

The action scenes were both decent and fun

The story had good pacing, but it lacked some spicy thrills. 

I loved the costume designs for the antagonist's suits and guns. It had a star wars/Tron legacy feel to them. 

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - July 25th 2021

It was an okay film with a decent performance from the cast. It was definitely creepy and made for a good popcorn film. Would I rewatch this? Probably not. 

Raw (No subs)

English fansub provided by W Lee (earless_hoichi) via Subscene

Completed - July 11th 2021

It had a promising start, but the ending didn't quite have much closure. I do wish Morio had the chance to see his mother/family. Overall, it was an alright film with a vintage indie-documentary styled themed to it.

Raw (Eng fansubs provided by Furritsubs)

Completed - June 29th 2021

The acting was decent, but the story pacing didn't quite keep me interested. The special started to get interesting once the culprit's reason for motive was unravelled.

TVER with VPN

Raw (Eng subs provided by aoinousagi)

Completed - April 20th 2021

A short film (promotional commercial) with less exploration on the main leads. 

Despite the limited character development, I appreciated the relaxing and less dramatic tone of the film. 

Both leads had chemistry which is a bonus!

Official YouTube (Eng Subs)

Completed - June 6th 2021

This was a nice short film. The pair's chemistry was present, but some acting felt too anime-ish (from my pov). 

I would be interested to see an expanded story based on this short film and pairing. 

Official YouTube (Eng subs)

Completed - March 25th 2021

Very short, and the story seems to have a continuation.

The pairings status still seems pretty one-sided, which is sad but bittersweet. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - May 12th 2021

Predictable ending with foreseeable characters - Based on some of the actors previous acting roles. 

The amnesia plot was very cliche and wasted much plot potential with the rest of the characters. 

Sadly, most of the death scenes didn't make me care enough for the characters. The story lost its touch. 

I may only watch season 3 for full closure. 

HULU Japan (VPN LOCKED) 

Raw NSBC

English subs provided by Manxsubs

Completed - Jan 17th  2021

I have to be honest; I've had mixed feelings ever since the trailer dropped.

The film was interesting, but it took me a while to become invested in the characters and grasp their perspective. I felt so bad for some of the female characters (Tamaki and somewhat Chikako).

The pacing was okay, and one aspect that stood out to me was the complex nature of the main characters, especially Kyouichi. The bar scene is the point where I felt a bit of sympathy for him. The chemistry between Kyouichi (Ohkura) and Imagase (Narita) was there. However, some scenes felt dull due to Ohkura stiffness.

I now understand why some people expressed their disappointment in the film. From my perspective, the outcome seemed foreseeable.

Amazon Prime Japan  (Softsubs available from Siri)

Blu-ray and DVD

Completed - April 28th 2021

Very forgettable. 

Cool visual actors, but it's more of a sims 4 ad than a short film. 

Official YouTube (Eng subbed)

Completed - April 19th 2021

SPOILERS:

Seeing the trailer alone made me feel hesitant. The film plot fell flat, leaving a hollow feeling after watching it. 

My main reason for watching was because of Mizuhara-san, and I wanted to give Japan another chance for GL. 

Although it was appreciative that the main leads have a backstory, the film's plot is all over the place. Mizuhara's character has intercourse with two men throughout the film despite being a lesbian (maybe bi). The goals of these two leads made no sense to me. I could see what falling in love is like. You lose a sense of logic and wish for that person's happiness, and sometimes you find yourself to be selfish.  But killing someone and losing it all, that is very extreme and feels unrealistic. 

Another issue I had with the film was the relationship. It was toxic asf. 

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - July 20th 2021

Probably one of the most forgettable films out of this year's watch. If ya looking to expect friends to lovers trope, it's best to look elsewhere. I went in with low expectations and just for the random chaos.  I loved the random pencil animations. It's a clever way to illustrate and express the character's imagination with a low budget. 

The story and preview had some interesting potential, but the story flow was zig zaggy all over the place. Overall, at least the ending was somewhat realistic with how they decided to conclude Saimon and Tada's relationship. 

Raw (No subs)

Amazon Japan and US

Completed - June 3rd 2021

The story and acting was very surface-level exploration. 

Also, the ending effect was a bit cheesy. Without the added glitch effect, the acting and set-up would come across as more natural. 

The kissing was decent (5 stars)

Official YouTube (Eng subs)

Completed - Feb 12th 2021

The film's pacing was very rushed; however, it tried to stay faithful to the source material, manga (points for that). 

Character's houses and the camera shots (distance shots) were good while other shots with the two leads felt so-so. The colour palette for the film could have had more contrast in some scenes. 

Due to the short duration, it left little room for the characters to grow gradually. The story had given more redeemable moments for Ryoma. In contrast, Izumi was given fewer moments to grow and develop. Music was forgettable and uninspiring, but it fit the tone of the scenes. 

One of the biggest concerns I had after seeing the trailer was acting. However, seeing Daigo in the casting list revived a bit of my interest. 

The performance of the characters was all over the top. I understand its based on a manga, but I believe the filmmakers could have toned it down to make the characters more believable for a live-action.

I was surprised Izumi's character was more assertive and confident in the opening scene. (This may be one of the scenes that I liked more than the anime). 

As a fan of the anime, I think this film struggled to transition from animation to real life. The story touches upon real-life situations of paparazzi and same-sex relations in society. However, the acting didn't help to deliver that message. 

Fans of the anime or manga may feel puzzled after watching this film, but it may be entertaining for non-anime viewers (people who are not familiar with the source material). 

Blu-ray (Exclusive to local Japan regions)

Stream on (Eng Subs at GagaOOlala)