Sasaki to Miyano Movie: Sotsugyou-hen

I just watched this at the premiere at Anime Boston. Whatever you love about season one is here, and if you’re a manga reader that’s up-to-date, your expectations will be met! It follows the manga quite closely. There’s even a Hirano and Kagiura treat! The familiar soundtrack, the art style, the seiyuu/voice actors, and the moments that make you hold your breath are there. Most series tend to ramp up or have a few noticeable differences in their “in-between” movies so that’s what I was expecting, so I’m pleasantly surprised. On the other hand, if you wanted a change of pace or new elements it may not impact you. This movie does what it intends to do which is transition from the first season and sets up for the next season/next stage of their relationship. You’ll laugh, you’ll coo, you’ll feel wholesome. Please check it out!

Following the same concerns and affection of the anime series, Sasaki to Miyano: Graduation reunites the cutest couple of 2022. Sasaki is graduating from secondary school and Miyano is anxious about their new routine. The two won't see each other daily as Miyano is staying in school while Sasaki applies for college. The hauntings in Miyano's mind first appeared at the series' finale and persisted in the movie's opening minutes. Nevertheless, the storyline fades naturally as the film progresses. Leaving aside the worries of a new relationship routine, "Graduation" shows a beautiful and necessary evolution by presenting the "coming out" scenario for themselves, their families, and friends. Miyano received support from his close friends Tashiro and Kuresawa, whereas Sasaki did not, as he didn't express his romantic feelings for Miyano to his friends. We can say the movie trully begins when the couple share affection on the train, when Sasaki talks with Okasawara, and when they tell their families they are in a same-sex relationship. The best and most crucial moment of the film is when Sasaki and Miyano openly reveal their relationship as a couple. The conversation between Miyano and his mother regarding his same-sex love interest with a senpai from their school, feels natural. Miyano's mum hears the "news" and welcomes Sasaki home, indicating they have a new secure spot to express themselves and hang out together. Miyano's primary concern was their dating set up, but now they have a new place to hang out. In contrast, Sasaki's sister leaves the place in tears upon hearing the news. However, through a necessary dialogue with Miyano about love, relationships, and personal growth, the situation is soon resolved. A brief part of the film that portrays Sasaki's family dynamic and his close bond with his sister. The movie maintains the charming style of the animated series with scenes featuring the cats while also incorporating shoujo elements in significant parts. Overall, Sasaki to Miyano: Graduation is a delightful and heartwarming depiction of the challenges that every same-sex couple experiences. A film that is more straightforward than the series and can only achieve that because we had a well-developed couple in the previous material.

I waited as long as I could for a possible dub, but after contacting Crunchyroll and learning that not every show can receive one, I decided it was time to watch. It was absolutely worth it. The series is powerful and deeply emotional from multiple perspectives. It explores difficult conversations, genuine love, strong friendship and moments of exceptional parenting. Many beloved characters from previous adaptations make their return, adding even more heart and depth. The story begins beautifully with a short side narrative that hints at another relationship I hope will be explored further, then continues into the touching and authentic connection between Sasaki and Miyano. Their journey feels real, allowing the viewer to experience every moment with them. With a seamless transition into a new season, one can only hope that what awaits this wonderful couple is another chapter filled with the same warmth and sincerity.