being a fan of classic yaoi always comes with problematic prerequisites but for
ai no kusabi i feel it’s done in a way where the circumstance, even though problematic, gave it opportunity to be beautifully queer, with it themes of hierarchical discrimination and social exclusion.
“You may be reluctant to accept it, but some love can only be requited in such an ending”this ova had so many complex and interesting characters and themes that just wasn’t developed enough (i heard the manga is amazing, i can’t wait to check it out). Riki and Iason sharing the cigarette, while the facility around them was burning in flames, a double suicide, has got to be one of the most beautiful depictions of queer love, but because their relationship just wasn’t developed enough, it didn’t really hit as hard, and Katze is such an interesting character, i wished they delved into his backstory more.
and Guy, omg, he was definitely the most screwed over character in this ova.
“Seems like I’ve got plenty of time to think about it. Riki.”that final scene, having lost his arm, with his arm sleeve flowing in the wind, as a reminder of Riki, is seared into my mind. Guy truly loved Riki, truly cared for him, but fate had a different plan.
maybe i’m just a masochist but i will always adore all these doomed queer love stories from the bottom of my heart
