This is a feel good movie if I've ever seen one. You'll quickly become attached to both Sayaka and Ito-sensei. They are both such vibrant characters that suit each other perfectly. Not even in a romantic way, of course! But with something more important - mutual respect. To add on that, it's refreshing to watch a movie NOT about romance, there is barely even a hint of it in this movie, instead it definitely focuses on respect and believing in yourself - which I think we could all do a little bit more of. If you don't come out of this movie wanting to try harder, I'd be shocked. The story itself is somewhat typical of Japanese dramas, I'll admit. But the way it's executed is what's key in this movie. -- Characters I fell in love with Sayaka almost straight away. There was just something about her that drew me in and kept me there for the remainder of the film. The way she tried her best and didn't let being ridiculed stop her really resonated with me. She was such a strong character and honestly I don't think I'll ever forget her. Ito-sensei was the teacher we all wish we had in school. Unwavering acceptance and belief in all his students. Even the memory tugs at the heart strings. Too many teachers get disenchanted with the job of teaching others, but Ito-sensei had that fire in him that would never go out. How I seriously wish I had a teacher like him in school - then maybe I wouldn't have thought I was only set up for failure. Ito-sensei should be the inspiration for all teachers. Get to know your students and find out what way of learning suits them best. Akari - aka Mama Kudo. Sayaka's mum. This precious, precious mum. My heart broke for her so many times. She was so devoted and loving I just wanted to give her a huge hug and tell her to get rid of some of that weight on her shoulders. But I guess that's part of what being a mum is about, taking on the worries and fears of your children as your own and working hard to eliminate them. Reiji was such a sweet character. A man left with the burden of becoming yet another lawyer in a line of lawyers - a burden that he doesn't want at all. I would have liked to have seen more of his character, because he felt a little insignificant in the grand scheme of things? Like he was brought in for a reason, but they decided against it. Still, you saw enough of his character to like him. I would talk about other characters, but I feel like I can't without putting in spoilers. So instead I'll talk about the acting. I had absolutely 0 problems with any of them. Sayaka's character type is hard to pull off sometimes, it can either be too little enthusiasm or too much, like there's no in between, but Arimura Kasumi made it seem effortless. Through the ups and downs, you'll feel what the characters are feeling and this is largely thanks to the acting. -- Music Honestly, this will be a super short section because I barely noticed the music if I'm honest, and I'll assume this part in particular will be anyone's reason to lower the score. The highlight for me was the song at the end credits. And honestly, I liked the movie so much maybe I just missed the soundtrack entirely because I was too engrossed in watching. -- Rewatch I would 100% watch this movie again. -- Overall I loved this movie. If you need a feel good movie, this is the one for you. If you need a kick in the butt to work harder, this is the movie for you. If you need reminding that you can try your best and succeed because you're worth it, watch this movie! No matter what anyone else calls you, you know who you are and you're the only one who can determine your own worth. Also watch the credits!