This review may contain spoilers
A story that explores the beauty of healthy conversations
The story of this bl is not new. As fans of bls, we have probably seen this storyline in many many other shows. What sets this show apart though is the way the characters react and the way it explores the beauty and importance of healthy conversations. Let me elaborate...
Amane goes to live with his grandmother in Enoshima where he meets Ryuji. Amane is a free spirited person, who is always joking, and expressing himself unapologetically. On the other hand, Ryuji is shy and reserved but a kind soul who listens and pays attention.
They become friends in no time. Ryuji's calm and attentive presence makes Amane feel safe and he opens up more about his struggles. Ryuji listens to him patiently, assuring him that he doesn't need to hide behind his laughter and jokes when he is with him.
Amane secretly develops a crush on Ryuji. At first, he tries to ignore it as he has been rejected in the past when he fell in love with his friend. But it becomes impossible as he gets to know Ryuji more closely and realizes what a thoughtful and kind person he is. In the end, when it becomes impossible for him to hold it in any longer, the truth comes out.
Until this point, it probably feels like a story we have all heard or seen before. But what happens from this point on, is what really sets this show apart from all the other shows.
The way Ryuji reacts to Amane's confession, the way he doesn't confuse Amane or ghosts him in the name of 'figuring his feelings out' is where this show hits right.
Ryuji is thoughtful. Even when he feels confused about the confessions, he sets out to have an honest conversation with Amane, letting him know how glad he is that Amane confessed.
He doesn't accept the proposal instantly, nor does he pretend that nothing has happened. Things have changed and they are not just friends anymore. Because there is this 'knowing you like me' and he acknowledges it like an absolute gentleman.
I felt it when Amane looked at Ryuji, dazzled at how beautiful it is to love someone like him. Someone who doesn't invalidate or ignore your feelings rather acknowledges and gives the respect it deserves.
The end was also very satisfying. Ryuji's pov was completely understandable and it was valid why his confession was not very confident and yet somehow sweet. As someone who has never even liked a person (whether man or woman), it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between whether you like someone just as friends or are attracted to them. Maybe he doesn't still get it the way Amane feels. Amane has been in love before. He understands and is more aware of his sexuality. Ryuji is more inexperienced in this aspect. So, he speaks from his heart. He confesses what he truly feels. It's this very honesty that makes him brave. Like when he doesn't shy away from the fact that he wants to see the fire works alone with only Amane, when their friends try to take them along.
In the end, it was a beautiful story that fills one's heart with joy without completely taking off from the reality. The only complaint one can have from this show is probably the fact it doesn't have another season. The story has a lot more potential. The chemistry is real - awkward when needed and heart warming when required. It would be really interesting to see how their relationship develops and how they learn more about each other.
Amane goes to live with his grandmother in Enoshima where he meets Ryuji. Amane is a free spirited person, who is always joking, and expressing himself unapologetically. On the other hand, Ryuji is shy and reserved but a kind soul who listens and pays attention.
They become friends in no time. Ryuji's calm and attentive presence makes Amane feel safe and he opens up more about his struggles. Ryuji listens to him patiently, assuring him that he doesn't need to hide behind his laughter and jokes when he is with him.
Amane secretly develops a crush on Ryuji. At first, he tries to ignore it as he has been rejected in the past when he fell in love with his friend. But it becomes impossible as he gets to know Ryuji more closely and realizes what a thoughtful and kind person he is. In the end, when it becomes impossible for him to hold it in any longer, the truth comes out.
Until this point, it probably feels like a story we have all heard or seen before. But what happens from this point on, is what really sets this show apart from all the other shows.
The way Ryuji reacts to Amane's confession, the way he doesn't confuse Amane or ghosts him in the name of 'figuring his feelings out' is where this show hits right.
Ryuji is thoughtful. Even when he feels confused about the confessions, he sets out to have an honest conversation with Amane, letting him know how glad he is that Amane confessed.
He doesn't accept the proposal instantly, nor does he pretend that nothing has happened. Things have changed and they are not just friends anymore. Because there is this 'knowing you like me' and he acknowledges it like an absolute gentleman.
I felt it when Amane looked at Ryuji, dazzled at how beautiful it is to love someone like him. Someone who doesn't invalidate or ignore your feelings rather acknowledges and gives the respect it deserves.
The end was also very satisfying. Ryuji's pov was completely understandable and it was valid why his confession was not very confident and yet somehow sweet. As someone who has never even liked a person (whether man or woman), it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between whether you like someone just as friends or are attracted to them. Maybe he doesn't still get it the way Amane feels. Amane has been in love before. He understands and is more aware of his sexuality. Ryuji is more inexperienced in this aspect. So, he speaks from his heart. He confesses what he truly feels. It's this very honesty that makes him brave. Like when he doesn't shy away from the fact that he wants to see the fire works alone with only Amane, when their friends try to take them along.
In the end, it was a beautiful story that fills one's heart with joy without completely taking off from the reality. The only complaint one can have from this show is probably the fact it doesn't have another season. The story has a lot more potential. The chemistry is real - awkward when needed and heart warming when required. It would be really interesting to see how their relationship develops and how they learn more about each other.
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