Yuichiro Hirakawa's adaptation of Aoi Hiiragi's manga, "Whisper of the Heart," takes viewers on a delightful exploration of love and aspirations. Drawing inspiration from the original story, the film ventures into new narrative paths, capturing the hearts of audiences once again.
The story unfolds on two parallel axes, one in the present and the other ten years prior. We meet our main protagonists, Shizuku and Seiji, during their middle school years, both avid bookworms engaged in a competition to secure the newest novel from the school library. As Shizuku investigates her opponent's identity, their paths intertwine, revealing a striking connection. Even an antique shop that holds sentimental value for Shizuku happens to belong to Seiji's father.
In the present timeline, Shizuku and Seiji maintain a long-distance relationship as they navigate their lives at 25 years old. Seiji has become a celebrated cello player in Cremona, Italy, while Shizuku works as an editor in a small publishing house. Both face challenges and internal struggles. Seiji's pursuit of artistic perfection takes its toll, leaving him with a sense of something missing in his life. Meanwhile, Shizuku finds herself caught in a job that fails to fulfill her dreams of becoming a writer. As her best friend prepares for marriage, Shizuku must reevaluate her own relationship, while Seiji encounters a potential romantic prospect. A trip to Italy forces them to confront their realities.
Yuichiro Hirakawa masterfully directs a genuine Japanese drama, infused with a carefree atmosphere predominantly reflected in Shizuku's demeanor. This light-heartedness persists throughout both timelines, enhanced by the spirited performances of Runa Yasuhara and Nana Seino, who portray the younger and older Shizuku, respectively. Amidst the familiar themes of pursuing dreams and the classic "will-they-won't-they" romance, the film maintains a sense of uncertainty, effectively sustaining audience interest. However, it does suffer from occasional pacing issues, a common trait in Japanese cinema.
The cinematography by Koichi Nakayama and Lorenzo Di Nola offers the expected brightness, skillfully distinguishing between the aesthetics of Japan and Italy, enhancing the film's atmosphere and visual appeal. Music plays a central role in the narrative, complementing the connection between two outsiders bonded by shared interests. While the potential love triangle remains unexplored, it adds depth to a narrative that lacks surprise.
One of the film's intriguing aspects lies in its realistic portrayal of the inner workings of publishing houses. The interactions between chief editors, editors, and authors are convincingly depicted, providing an interesting glimpse into this industry. The film also explores the reality of becoming an editor, often pursued by failed authors, while shedding light on the Japanese work mentality, particularly regarding paid vacations, in a simultaneously amusing and painfully realistic manner.
Presented predominantly through Shizuku's perspective, Tori Matsuzaka portrays the older Seiji with his trademark coolness, which initially gives him an upper hand in his interactions with Shizuku. However, as the story progresses, his true feelings are unveiled, showcasing Matsuzaka's charisma and chemistry with Seino's character. Similarly, Yasuhara and Tsubasa Nakagawa deliver an excellent performance, showcasing a captivating dynamic in one of the film's strongest aspects.
The editing strikes a balance between leisurely pacing and occasional moments of speed, effectively complementing the narrative. However, some trimming could benefit the overall flow of the movie.
"Whisper of the Heart" may not be considered high art, and it occasionally succumbs to clichéd moments of teenage romance. Nevertheless, its portrayal of the publishing industry, picturesque Italian settings, and the overall feel-good atmosphere make it a delightful cinematic experience. The film's true value lies in its ability to charm and captivate audiences, leaving them with a warm and pleasant sensation.
Whisper of the Heart (2022) - info
- Release date: October 14, 2022
- Genre: Drama, Crime
- Director: Yûichirô Hirakawa
- Writer: Aoi Hiiragi
- Stars: Nana Seino, Tôri Matsuza, kaTowa Araki