Dou kyu sei – Classmates by Shouko Nakamura
One-line Summary:
In “Dou kyu sei – Classmates,” directed by Shouko Nakamura, two high school boys, Hikaru Kusakabe and Rihito Sajou, find themselves drawn to each other despite their contrasting personalities. As they navigate their blossoming relationship, they must confront their own insecurities and societal expectations.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Shouko Nakamura
- Writer: Asumiko Nakamura
- Key Actors: Hiroshi Kamiya as Hikaru Kusakabe, Kenji Nojima as Rihito Sajou
- Music Director: Kotringo
- Director of Photography: Takahiro Mogi
- Producers: Yoko Matsuzaki, Yuji Higa, and Kenji Horikawa
Plot:
“Dou kyu sei – Classmates” follows the story of Hikaru Kusakabe, a carefree and outgoing student, and Rihito Sajou, a reserved and studious classmate. When Hikaru discovers Rihito practicing the piano alone in the school’s music room, he is captivated by Rihito’s talent and begins to develop feelings for him.
As their relationship deepens, Hikaru and Rihito face numerous challenges. Rihito struggles with his fear of judgment from others due to his reserved nature, while Hikaru grapples with his own insecurities about their differences. Despite these obstacles, their bond grows stronger as they learn to support and understand each other.
The film beautifully portrays the complexities of first love, capturing the tender moments shared between Hikaru and Rihito as they explore their feelings and navigate the challenges of adolescence. Their journey is filled with heartwarming moments, self-discovery, and the exploration of their own identities.
Themes and Motifs:
“Dou kyu sei – Classmates” explores themes of self-acceptance, societal expectations, and the power of love. The film delves into the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in a society that often imposes rigid norms and expectations. It highlights the importance of embracing one’s true self and finding the courage to defy societal pressures.
The motif of music is also prevalent throughout the film, symbolizing the emotional connection between Hikaru and Rihito. The music serves as a means of communication and expression for the characters, allowing them to convey their deepest emotions and desires.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “Dou kyu sei – Classmates” received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of same-sex relationships and its exploration of adolescent emotions. The film was praised for its beautiful animation, compelling storytelling, and well-developed characters.
The movie’s impact extended beyond its initial release, becoming a beloved work within the LGBTQ+ community. It has been celebrated for its positive representation and its ability to resonate with audiences, regardless of their sexual orientation.
“Dou kyu sei – Classmates” was nominated for several awards, including the Tokyo Anime Award for Best Film and the Crunchyroll Anime Awards for Best Animation. Its legacy lies in its contribution to LGBTQ+ representation in Japanese cinema and its ability to touch the hearts of viewers worldwide.
Recommendation:
“Dou kyu sei – Classmates” is a heartfelt and poignant film that beautifully captures the complexities of first love and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society. With its stunning animation, compelling characters, and powerful storytelling, it is a must-watch for fans of romance and coming-of-age stories.
Memorable Quote:
“I want to be with you, even if it’s just for a moment.”
