🎬 Title: Look Back (ルックバック)Release Year: 2024 / Director: Kiyotaka Oshiyama / Runtime: 58 min
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (My Rating: 5/5)
Synopsis
Adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto’s acclaimed one-shot manga, Look Back tells the story of Fujino and Kyomoto, two young artists whose bond and ambitions are shaped by creativity, rivalry, and tragedy.
Review
Oshiyama’s adaptation stays faithful to Fujimoto’s emotional storytelling, translating its raw manga panels into striking animation. The film captures the intensity of youthful artistic drive, as well as the fragile line between passion and obsession. Its quiet yet devastating emotional beats echo long after the credits.
Highlights
- Faithful adaptation of Fujimoto’s manga
- Emotional resonance between the two protagonists
- Minimalist yet powerful animation and sound design
Lowlights
- Short runtime leaves viewers wanting more
- Some background details from the manga are condensed
Verdict
A heartfelt and poignant exploration of art, youth, and loss. A must-watch for both anime fans and newcomers.
Cultural Footnotes
It’s hard to think of another film that can stir up such intense emotions within just 60 minutes. Fujimoto brilliantly captures the despair one feels when faced with true genius—without the need for a clear “enemy.” And yet, in the next moment, I found myself smiling naturally at the simple joy of life.
The silent convenience store scene is a masterstroke; without a single word, the bond between the two characters shines through. From that tender moment to their falling out, and then to Kyomoto’s sudden death—the shock is overwhelming. Kyomoto’s death inevitably recalls the Kyoto Animation arson tragedy.
In the flashback where Fujino strikes back, I couldn’t help but feel it was Fujimoto’s personal response to that real-life incident. Even after their parting, the bond between the two is undeniable. I felt as if Fujimoto himself was unsatisfied with his current assistants, still waiting for Kyomoto’s return—while Kyomoto, buying multiple copies of the same manga, continued to support her quietly from the shadows.
The film leaves a deep impression through its use of body language and silent moments that speak louder than dialogue. A rare masterpiece—one that everyone should experience at least once.
Credits
Cast (voices): Yumi Kawai, Mizuki Yoshida
Original Story: Tatsuki Fujimoto
Director: Kiyotaka Oshiyama
Studio: Studio Durian