Manuel Rullo

a lot got cut from the original story so it feels very rushed…but the vibes, the outfits, the music and everything else is still very enjoyable. nonetheless, the first film is way better under pretty much every aspect of it, but the plot being a little more profound and dramatic helps this one a bit.

“were we reborn? we weren’t, we’re the same” oh my god, kore-eda, you’ve done it once again. this film hurt my inner child in a way I didn’t think was possible. I truly believe that many people will never understand what it really means to be a child who feels abnormal, to think you’re a monster or “sick” simply because society convinces you that you are. other kids your age, and sometimes even adults, remind you every day that you’re different from them because of how you act, how you dress, or because you enjoy a hobby they think you shouldn’t. as soon as I saw the bruises on yori’s back, I started crying uncontrollably. no child should ever have to endure something so horrific. I hope this film helps people realise who the real monsters are…not only within the story, but in the real world as well. I loved the narrative structure and the story being told from perspectives: it was executed perfectly. each part carries its own emotional weight, maintaining tension and curiosity throughout; you’re left confused about what’s really happening and what’s the truth, until you slowly learn what minato has been through and the true nature of each character. I would have loved to see yori’s perspective too, but honestly, I don’t think I could have handled it; the film is already devastating, so perhaps it was for the best that we only got to know him as this joyful, intelligent boy who loves flowers and treats everyone else with kindness.

it was even better than the first time, I just love this so much

oh to be stuck in a time loop everyday with andy samberg