Makoto Shinkai 5 Centimeters Per Second

Plot

Oukashou:
Ever since Takaki Touno and Akari Shinohara transferred into the same primary school, they have been close friends. After primary school graduation, Akari unexpectedly moves to Tochigi for family reasons. Though they communicated with each other through letters, their close relationship continued to fade.

When Takaki knew his family would be moving to Kagoshima, he decided to see Akari a week before the move. On the day of his planned visit, a snowstorm delayed his arrival at Iwafune station. Even after his late arrival, he was able to meet up with Akari. Under an old cherry tree, they finally shared a long awaited kiss. In the morning, Takaki and Akari exchanged their farewells as they both went their separate ways.

Cosmonaut:
Now, Takaki is currently a high school senior. Kanae Sumida, a girl who has feelings for Takaki, is hoping to confess to him before graduation. Aside from having short conversations with Takaki, she always watches him from a distance. Kanae is often absent-minded about the future of going to college and spends her time surfing to relieve stress. When she finally wants to confess to Takaki, she learns the truth. She cannot give whatever Takaki has been searching for. In the end, Kanae doesn't tell Takaki her feelings.

Byousoku 5 Centimeter:
The scene begins with Takaki typing on his computer. Although Takaki has another girl for three years, he still thinks of Akari. He spends his days going on with his life still hoping to see Akari again.

As for Akari, she's already engaged to someone else. Akari finds an old letter she never sent, which makes her reminisce about her past with Takaki. Her memories of Takaki doesn't cling to her so much anymore.

In the end, Takaki finally decides to forget about what he has lost from the past and live in the present. While walking across a railroad track, he passes someone who looks like Akari. After the trains have passed, she isn't there. With reassurance of moving on with his life, he smiles and walks away.


Review

Despite it's unfortunate ending, the film describes perfectly how relationships sometimes don't work out. For me, I have came to realize life is how you make it. In other words, despite our past misfortunes, we are the only ones responsible for changing our future. Allowing memories that cause us to linger in the past will only end up hurting us more.

Throughout the whole story, I like how the theme of how time and distance between people can affect their relationship. It was very tragic to see the attraction between the couple wane, but it was a good lesson in how fate has other plans in mind.

The voice actors and actresses were very good. I think that the director, Makoto Shinkai, made the right choice for the voices. Another thing was the background music set with each mood of the scenes. The background song near the end just blew me away. Every time I think of the song it always resonates in my mind.

The artwork was very good. In terms of the character design, I would have to say it definitely passed. The designs of the characters were very seemingly realistic. The faces of the characters always looked so innocent.

Compared to Makoto's 2004 film, The Place Promised In Our Early Days, everything has improved. With 5 Centimeters Per Second, Makoto Shinkai still has his touch with directing such amazing animated films. The designs has become a little better. The narration by the characters throughout the film idea is about the same, but this time 5 Centimeters Per Second is divided in 3 episodes and was able to flow very successfully.


Final Thoughts

Generally, I had high admirations for this anime film. It made me sad, yet happy at times. I would say this film would be alright for all ages. There seemed to be no real obscenity and vulgarity in any way, shape, or form. For those looking for an anime with drama, romance, and slice of life, this is definitely a must-see.

Although it wasn't based on a true story (at least I hope not), the message it conveyed was genuine. As I mentioned earlier, it's better to live in the present than the past. If you're looking for an anime movie that involves some thinking about reality, I would recommend this film.

Rating: 10 out of 10