This movie was excellent and it handled the serious story line very well. I was reluctant to watch it, based on the synopsis, but decided to give it a try and I'm so glad I did!

Iitoyo Marie is wonderful as Okamara. This poor girl had some serious self-esteem issues! It was so sad at the beginning as you watch her try to fade into the background so no one notices her. Again, according to the synopsis, I imagined that she would be this strange character, only interacting with her bird, but that wasn't the case. I'm also glad that the bullying was kept to a minimum. We can use our imaginations and get the idea, so I was glad not to have too much of that.

Nakagawa Taishi as Kira - this is my first time seeing him in anything, and it certainly won't be my last show with him in it! He was terrific. You could really sense his fatalism and detachment due to his circumstances. He had a few scenes where he cried and it was very effective and not over the top. And he did a lot of smiling and he is absolutely gorgeous, so there is that!

The chemistry between the main characters was so sweet! They each brought an equal amount to the relationship and they were both better people for having gotten involved with one another. The film spent a lot of time showing them doing everyday things, which was such a good way to go, because of Kira's circumstances. I really felt the ability to bond with both of them and they were a joy to watch.

The secondary male character - I liked their friendship but I could have done without him yelling all the time. Is that a Japanese thing or was he overacting? I don't know, but that is my only (slight) complaint.

This is definitely a "rewatch" movie for me. Not too much angst, wonderful characters, the pacing was wonderful (no wasted scenes, etc.). I loved the innocence portrayed by all of the characters. The bright colors used throughout really helped with the overall feel of youth. Seriously, I can't recommend this movie highly enough!