Fantastic Girls (2015)
A heartwarming coming-of-age drama about friendship, passion, and enduring connections. Watch now!
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Info
| Original Title | でーれーガールズ |
|---|---|
| Formats | Streaming |
| Duration | 118 mins |
| Year | 2015 |
| First Air Date | February 21, 2015 |
Trailer
Synopsis
In 1980, Ayuko transfers from Tokyo to a school in Okayama where she has no friends and has only her university student boyfriend Hideho to rely on for moral support. One day, one of Ayuko’s classmates, Takemi, discovers Ayuko has a talent (she likes to draw a romance manga of herself and her boyfriend). Takemi is a huge manga fan and thus becomes a fan of Ayuko’s work, leading to the pair becoming close friends. However, a certain incident causes them to quarrel and part ways. 30 years later, Ayuko is a professional manga artist and returns to Okayama to give a speech at her former high school. While there, she’s reunited with Takemi, who has become a teacher. Suddenly the friendship they both believed to have been long lost is rekindled in adulthood.
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Editor's Review
In 1980, Ayuko, a new transfer student from Tokyo, finds herself in Okayama, a place where she has no friends. She relies on her boyfriend, Hideo, a college student, for moral support. Ayuko’s life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her passion for illustrating and drawing. She begins working on a manga in which she becomes the romantic and main protagonist. However, making friends in her class remains a challenge.
The story unfolds as Ayuko’s talent catches the attention of a popular classmate. Encouraged by this newfound connection, Ayuko continues to work on her manga. The two girls grow closer, sharing their dreams and aspirations. But fate intervenes, and an event separates them.
Fast forward thirty years, and Ayuko has become a professional manga artist. She receives an invitation to a class reunion, where she will reunite with her old classmate. The film explores themes of friendship, artistic passion, and the passage of time.
“Fantastic Girls” beautifully captures the nostalgia of the ’80s, portraying the struggles and triumphs of youth. The performances by the cast, especially Mio Yûki and Rika Adachi, are heartfelt and genuine. Director Akiko Ôku skillfully weaves together past and present, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with viewers.
The film’s pacing allows us to immerse ourselves in Ayuko’s journey, from her initial struggles to her eventual success. The manga creation process is depicted authentically, emphasizing the dedication and hard work required to pursue one’s artistic vision.
Visually, “Fantastic Girls” captures the essence of both eras—the vibrant ’80s and the mature present day. The cinematography beautifully contrasts Ayuko’s youthful enthusiasm with her seasoned perspective.
While the film primarily focuses on Ayuko and her classmate, it also touches on universal themes of friendship, creativity, and the impact of pivotal moments in our lives. The emotional depth and relatability make it a compelling watch.
In summary, “Fantastic Girls” is a heartwarming drama that celebrates friendship, artistic passion, and the enduring connections that shape our lives. Whether you’re a manga enthusiast or simply appreciate well-crafted storytelling, this film is worth your time.