The Last 10 Years

This was not what I expected from the synopsis. I was really hoping for a different type of story instead of the old muted, restrained storyline. Which probably explains the wild disparity in ratings and reviews but also I am shocked at the overall high rating here. It was the same thing as with Drawing Closer, but this isn't as big of an offender as that one, at least for me.

The positives here are that it is a legit disease and the science checks out. And that it's based on a true story so I guess this really happened. It's not your mystery terminal illness that takes people in their prime.

But I guess I was expecting these two to actually have an honest, fulfilling relationship for the ten years, be that platonic or not and to lift each other up. Instead we are shown the same quiet, demure heroine, that occasionally shouts, laughs or cries and then returns to her regular quiet, self-effacing self. And he is your regular suicidal basket case. Neither of them seeks any therapy, but this is Japan, nobody does it. So they meet once in a while, it takes him years to make a move, she shuts it down, he finally builds up the courage again and they become a couple for like a year or something like that? Before that it doesn't look like he has embraced life, other than holding on to a steady job and the occasional hanging out with her and their other two friends. And all this time she never comes clean about her illness. Had she done that when they met they would've been able to make the most of the ten years. But no, how could you have all this anguish then? Anyway the last half hour is utter useless drivel.

Also, I never remember a scene with them like in this poster.

I do not recommend it. Not uplifting, not inspiring, not enjoyable, nothing new, not worth your while. Proud I was able to fight back tears. Not worth my tears.

This movie reminds me of A walk to remember and Dying young. All very sad movies about one partner dying from sickness. Tragic but heartfelt. This movie made me sad, then happy then sad.

Outside of romance, this movie is also inspring for those who are facing depressions or having thoughts of suicide. It teaches viewers a bit about the meaning and prupose of life when one feels like there is no point to living.

The acting from both Nana Komatsu and Kento Sakaguchi was amazing. I actually watch it just becaue I wanted to see them act. Because it's a sad movie, their dramatic acting skills were shown off.

This film perfectly showcases what makes Japanese storytelling distinct from Western movies or K-dramas. A poignant, deeply emotional narrative brought to life by its enchanting soundtrack, precise cinematography, and naturally brilliant performances. No other cinema captures this unique blend of style and execution. It tackles heavy themes that spark unexpected self-reflection-realizations that only hit you after the credits roll.

The Last 10 Years leaves you with more personal questions than plot ambiguities. After watching, I spent hours drifting in and out of sleep, replaying the OST, tears flowing with its melody. Why do these fictional struggles resonate so deeply? What parallels exist in my own life that make me connect with these characters? Why am I-a grown man-waking at 3 a.m. With swollen eyes over a film? And seriously, did I cry so hard I might've wet the bed? Are these emotions purely from the movie, or did it unearth buried truths?

I typically struggle with the slow pacing of Japanese dramas, but this one breaks the mold with its deliberate yet seamless flow. For a film constrained by runtime, its patient buildup to the climax deserves immense respect. Combined with authentic dialogue, gripping acting, and a soft melancholic tone, it represents Japanese cinema at its finest. This is why I seek out these stories-this is the unmatched, bittersweet beauty I can't find elsewhere.

My only gripe, as with many great films, is craving more. Instead of cheerful montages of the leads bonding, I'd have loved deeper development. But the better a movie is, the greedier I become. Walking the tightrope between "too slow" and "too brief," this leans slightly toward the latter for me.

Movies like this deserve global attention. They handle profound themes with such artistry that they reveal lessons we've never pondered. This caliber of storytelling is rare. So is first love. So is life-a gift too often overlooked. Death is often seen as an inescapable end, but some face it far too soon. Our empathy can be selfish; some wish to escape life without considering those left behind. Existence can feel like a relentless march toward an unwanted fate, or it can be a treasured journey, shared with loved ones, despite hardships.

The Last 10 Years uses sorrow to highlight life's fragile beauty and the joy of finding meaning within it. A masterpiece that I hope gains the recognition it deserves.

I imagine this if it happened in my life, the acting of the characters is so remarkable and heart-touching, it feels like they truly bring the story to life. Radwimps' contribution to the soundtrack only elevates the entire experience, creating a perfect harmony between the music and the emotions of the film. It's hard to describe in words, but the film has such a powerful impact that it lingers in my thoughts even after I've watched it multiple times. Every time I watch it, I can't help but cry, feeling the weight of every scene. The soundtrack has become a constant companion in my life, playing in the background of my days, providing comfort and reflection. This film makes me realize how important it is to appreciate every single moment in life. It teaches us to cherish the fleeting seconds, to savor the minutes, and to value every little detail in our existence, as each one contributes to the bigger picture of our journey. It's a reminder that life, as unpredictable and challenging as it may be, is also incredibly beautiful and worth living fully.

Thanks "The Last 10 Years"