Jun 1, 2025
I'm writing this in favor of this manga, which has offered me a concrete story and enjoyable experience in general!
Given the historical theme, the story isn't too melodramatic or contain shocking detail or any looming threats. From the beginning, we are given the assurance that Takahiko is well and alive from the battlefield. And albeit his womanizing tendencies, it is also clear that at the end of the day, he is aware that his special s.o is Aoi, so I don't feel too much injustice was done. People are constantly growing and it's natural to finalize one's affection later on and get serious with
...
a certain somebody after a lot of heartsearching - that's what I think. And the fact that he feels like he must become a better person before facing Aoi again is a nice touch. Technically speaking, the story fits the Chekhov's gun, as every reference is utilized to the utmost (like Takahiko's loose personality matches with the blinding lights of Ginza, whose shady undertone otherwise wouldn't have attracted the bookish Aoi, whose joy for reading English "the enemy's language" book is unfavorable to the surrounding people, Takahiko included, but only because Takahiko wants to monopolize Aoi's attention).
I also like the little monologue from the introduction where Aoi compared himself with another woman also waiting for her loved one to come back from the war, which sets where the characters are standing in the relationship. The gestures between the characters are intimate throughout, which really transpire "this is what life is for". And the flashback is nicely integrated, and in the first night they spent together before Takahiko left for the battlefield, the "I wouldn't mind if the enemies just drop a bomb onto our roof right now." - I'm sure we all do feel that sometimes. I also happen to watch Japanese movie from the 40s - 50s era so I might be biased, but I can feel the human spirit of that time vicariously through Takahiko's pursuit of an acting career.
To capsulate, it's the little details in the story that I take personal liking to. But even if I try to be strict, every other element revolving around a post-war Japan who has just recently lost the war is adequately woven, e.g. the side character from different demographics, makes this a very well-balanced story. I did not expect much but I'm pleased. It seems like most manga from this era just happen to consistently deliver the goods.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all