With a name like 5 Centimeters per Second, what do you expect? First of all, after spending my life within the American system of measurement, I have to ask what is a centimeter? Suffice it to say that the title references the speed at which a cherry blossom petal falls from a tree.
This short film, about an hour in length, is a bitter-sweet heart-breaker. Takaki spends his life consumed with the memory of his childhood sweetheart Akari. After planning to spend their lives together, they are separated when Akari’s family moves away. Despite the occasional letter, the relationship would seem to cool, except in Takaki’s heart. Most of the film shows the negative effect this has on Takaki’s life as he grows into manhood.
The problem with 5 Centimeters per Second is its short length. There is a lot going on which could explain and clarify much of the plot, but which we do not get to see. Nothing is done to set up situations. Watching I thought this was an OVA for a longer series or perhaps a shortened version of a longer movie. But researching on-line I could find none. I had to re-run the film in my head to straighten out the storyline.
Artistically I have nothing but praise for the film. The art is excellent and the animation better than average. It is just that there is too much of the story which is left unsaid.
No nudity. No violence. No profanity. But some children may get bored if they can’t make sense of the plot. Some adults as well. 5 Centimeters per Second is suitable for anyone who can follow the story, unless they don’t like emotional downers.
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