Great analysis. Didn't think this show would get anymore videos made on it due to being mostly forgotten by seasonal anime watchers on top of the lack of popularity even when it was airing. I appreciate your take on the uncomfortable elements as a necessity to the delivery of the show's underlying themes and not just a negative aspect to be overcome. Its just unfortunate those aspects can cause people to write the story off as a creepy wish fulfillment fantasy, completely missing how its really just a tender, poignant little character drama about rekindling your dreams.
It was sad to watch so many people drop this anime because they were creeped out by the age gap. No patience to see if the anime was actually gonna go through with it.
Beautiful message, this show is definitely one of my top 5 anime of this year, and it's disappointing to see how overlooked it's been since it aired. It really goes to show how you can't judge something by its initial impression; you just might lose out on a remarkable story such as After the Rain.
this is one of the best and deepest reviews I have ever heard of... anything. You have an eye for something people mostly miss and your choice of words is awesome. really loved this gonna see the show now for sure, well after the live-action movie lol. peace out
This show has definitely been a personal favorite since it came out. The directing and art was tender and beautiful, right away it was clear to me that this show wanted to handle it's subject matter thoughtfully and with grace, so I wasn't bothered in the slightest. I recently bought it on blu-ray, I'd love to see more shows like this! ^.^
I'm really glad you mentioned Grave of the Fireflies because what this show did reminded me what that movie did in terms of creating emotion. Excellent video.
Ive always seen after the rain as more of a relationship between akira and hondo that was needed from both akira and hondo in order to get just enough support to relight their passions and move on with their lives(using the sparrow metaphor, small visual cues, ect). Im glad the anime ending was happier than the mangas, i feel like even though the anime ending happened relatively quick it was just perfect in my opinion.
I think that those uncomfortable moments are what make this a great story, they try portrait real people, specially someone who is an adolecent, full of hormones. One has nothing to do but feel this akwardness, but Kondo is so mature and kind that it fades away.
If the sexes were switched, feminists would be calling this brave and stunning. Also all the older dude had to do was tell her to focus on her studies and wait till graduation.
