Movie Digest
Minato is a university student who isn’t concerned about her appearance. Her stepbrother, Toru, is attractive and a ladies’ man. Toru’s behavior with women makes Minato uncomfortable. They do not get along. Minato puts on make-up and wears her friend’s high school uniform one day at her friend’s request. Toru happens to encounter her while she is out wandering in public and do not recognize her. She abruptly lies to him about her identity. But Toru is smitten with her at first sight.
The Feel-Good Part
Many cute moments between the leads in the film will make your heart flutter.
The Disappointing Factor
They concluded the film in a rush, which hinders the viewing experience.
In-Depth Analysis
This film is an adaptation of the manga Liar x Liar by Kindaichi Renjuro. The story goes like when Minato wanted to teach her stepbrother Toru a lesson. Lying about her identity was the perfect solution. So she named her new identity as Mina. Little did they know how deep they would fall for each other. The concept of the step-siblings falling in love is weird and horrifying to most people. There are several reminders that Minato and Toru are step-siblings and not blood-related. Step-siblings can lawfully marry one another under Japanese law. The film did convey this piece of information to the audience. When it comes time for brother and sister, to be honest, accept their mutual affections, and pair up at the end, no number of disclaimers or justifications can overcome the immediate and palpable sense that the movie is fundamentally broken. This adaptation was able to bring out the key elements and information very well, but they also skipped a few ideas that would make the movie more sense to the viewers. Because of this, many scenes in the film feel rushed and unjustified. The cinematography was good in evoking the romantic feelings throughout the film.
Star Power
Matsumura Hokuto (Toru) and Mori Nana (Minato/Mina) had great chemistry. Mori Nana took the spotlight with her brilliant acting that you will enjoy till the end.
Overall Opinion
If you are looking for a mindless romance movie to binge on, this is a good option.
