Program Note
Youth, in its lack of life experience, is inherently a time of failure—but that also makes it a period of growth and new beginnings. In a quiet seaside town, high school students Haino (Niihara Taisuke) and Reiko (Araho Yuki) are dating. They try to go further than just kissing, but fail due to a condition set by Reiko: Haino must win his next rugby match to earn her consent. Motivated by this goal, Haino devotes himself to the game—until a new woman catches his eye: Izawa (Kouri Yuka), a substitute teacher at their school. When Reiko sees Izawa getting close to Haino, she becomes consumed with jealousy. Although the story might sound like a typical love triangle on the surface, director Kominami Toshiya is more interested in exploring the essence of youth itself. Izawa’s presence between Haino and Reiko isn’t just for drama—she becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of growing up. A heavy drinker with emotional scars tied to her family, Izawa has endured years of pain, patiently holding herself together. Through her, the film sends a message: just like Izawa, even if Haino and Reiko don’t get the love they want or the future they imagined, another chance will come—as long as they’re willing to endure and wait. Though the film features frequent R-rated scenes, the depiction of repeated failure leading to eventual success resonates powerfully with its underlying message. The physical acts become metaphors for emotional growth, making this a coming-of-age story that is raw, honest, and surprisingly hopeful. (HUH Namwoong)