What Makes a Movie Truly Great? A Look at “5 Centimeters Per Second”
The recent release of “Suzume” has sparked mixed reactions, with many long-time fans of Makoto Shinkai expressing disappointment. Personally, I feel that Shinkai’s work has been on a downward trend since “Your Name.” In light of this, I wanted to share what I consider to be Shinkai’s masterpiece: “5 Centimeters Per Second.”
“5 Centimeters Per Second” is a film that uses delicate visuals and emotionally resonant music to tell a love story that transcends time and distance. As the movie itself asks, “How far can you love someone?” Distance is an unavoidable reality, yet love has the power to penetrate time and space, stirring the deepest, most tender parts of our hearts.
A Journey Through Time and Emotion
The film is divided into three chapters, each depicting the protagonists’ lives during childhood, middle school, and high school, and the emotional experiences of missed connections and fleeting reunions. Each segment is imbued with a profound emotional atmosphere, making us acutely aware of the passage of time and the preciousness of youth. In the second chapter, the male protagonist meets a girl named Kanae in his class. They joyfully play together, share their feelings, and revel in the joys outside of school. However, as Kanae’s family circumstances change and she moves away, their relationship gradually fades, and they eventually separate, embarking on new lives in different places. This part of the story is deeply moving, especially for young people navigating the confusion and anxieties of adolescence.
The Heartbreak of “5 Centimeters Per Second”
For me, the third chapter, “5 Centimeters Per Second,” most poignantly captures the heartache and separation. It portrays Takaki and Akari, unable to forget each other despite living separate lives and being unable to reunite. Takaki becomes a programmer, but he lacks passion for his work and relationships, simply going through the motions. Akari becomes a teacher, but she remains unmarried, quietly waiting for news of Takaki. They are both searching for each other’s presence, yet they always miss each other. One day, they unexpectedly meet on the streets of Tokyo, but a high-speed train prevents them from recognizing each other again. They turn away, gazing into the distance, tears streaming down their faces. They finally understand that they can never go back.
This segment evoked a sense of helplessness and regret, as well as a deep longing for each other. They once shared the most beautiful first love, but fate prevented them from continuing. They once had the most sincere feelings, but they drifted apart as time passed. They once had the purest dreams, but they were shattered by the harsh realities of life. They wanted to meet again, but they realized they had missed the best opportunity. They wanted to love again, but they realized they could not return to the past. They wanted to embrace again, but they realized they could not overcome the barrier that separated them.
Visual and Auditory Masterpiece
Furthermore, the film’s visuals, music, and score are also highly commendable. Each scene is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail and seamless transitions, creating a gradual and emotionally immersive experience. In terms of music, I particularly love the song “One More Time, One More Chance.” Its refreshing and beautiful melody reflects the intersection of love and loneliness, leaving one with a myriad of emotions.
A Lasting Impression
“5 Centimeters Per Second” is a thought-provoking film that makes us deeply aware of the ruthlessness of time and the remoteness of distance, while also allowing us to believe in the magic and power of love. The film’s subtle sadness and heart-stirring emotions linger long after the credits roll.