Movie Digest
A musically talented but timid and introverted high school girl Soma Ito finds her place in the world both as a person and a musician, under the watchful guidance of her father. The movie also highlights the music as the other protagonist, and together Soma Ito and music create a wonderful medley, that is melodious.
The Feel Good Part
The visuals and performances are worthy. The transformation of the shy Soma Ito into a confident girl is heart-warming. In addition, the focus on being a Tsugaru-Shamisen musician is novel and brings out an important aspect of Japanese culture which is music.
The Disappointing Factor
The coming-of-age story has been done multiple times in the past.
In-Depth Analysis
Adapted from the eponymous novel of the same name, Soma Ito is a high school student in the Aomori prefecture. She is a talented Tsugaru Shamisen musician, a gift she inherited from her mother, but hides it owing to being extremely reticent. Due to this, she has stage fright, cannot play in public, and also has no social life.
In an attempt to change herself, she works in a maid café and her interactions with the customers brings out her potential not just as an individual but also as a musician. She traverses this journey with the help of her father.
Star Power
The lead is Komai Ren who is a refreshing change. Her performance from a timid to a confident girl is moving and some of us might relate to it. She is ably supported by the other cast members especially Toyokawa Etsushi, who plays her father.
Overall Opinion
It is a cute yet touching family movie, and if you have not read the book, then the movie is a good watch.
