2
25
"and if you gaze long into the abyss, the abyss also gazes into you."
It’s definitely not a film for everyone, but it expressed something I deeply relate to and that was cathartic for me. Anyone who dismisses it as merely weird or perverted is missing how profound it truly is. It touches on everything — from the struggles of adolescence and mental health to a subtle critique of Japanese society with the lack of mental health support, stigma, detached overworking parents, etc. It’s raw, powerful, and honest. The opening line even states it’s meant for those who have suffered through puberty, which sets the tone perfectly. Of course, Baudelaire's Les Fleurs du Mal is part of the film.
The symbolism is brilliant — I especially loved the “other side” theme. It’s probably this impactful because it condenses a massive, masterful manga into just two hours, making the experience intense and overwhelming in the best way. Honestly, this movie found me rather than the other way around.
My personal highlight was Takao's actor — his performance resonated with me like no one else’s could. And the cinematography? Absolutely stunning — every frame was thoughtful, beautiful, and full of meaning.
Links -
Movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4y74UaBIDA
FMVs: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVlEiYP-9el67fqgK0z9jHvdN3-WXNU2b
The symbolism is brilliant — I especially loved the “other side” theme. It’s probably this impactful because it condenses a massive, masterful manga into just two hours, making the experience intense and overwhelming in the best way. Honestly, this movie found me rather than the other way around.
My personal highlight was Takao's actor — his performance resonated with me like no one else’s could. And the cinematography? Absolutely stunning — every frame was thoughtful, beautiful, and full of meaning.
Links -
Movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4y74UaBIDA
FMVs: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVlEiYP-9el67fqgK0z9jHvdN3-WXNU2b
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