Stories depicting two terminally ill people falling in love resonate deeply with audiences due to their poignant exploration of love, and the human spirit. “Drawing Closer,” a Japanese Netflix movie, follows this tradition, offering a poignant narrative about two terminally ill individuals who find solace and profound connection in each other.
Films like “The Fault in Our Stars” and “A Walk to Remember” have captivated viewers by portraying the emotional intensity and life-affirming experiences of such relationships.
Has “Drawing Closer” kept the tradition alive or is it just like every other love story with two dying people? Let’s find out.
A Heartfelt Exploration of Love and Mortality Shown in Drawing Closer
In “Drawing Closer,” Haruna Sakurai suddenly shows up in Akihito’s life like a bright flash of energy, while he is in deep despair and accepting of his impending death. Haruna, portrayed by Natsuki Deguchi, interrupts Akihito’s isolation with her lively and enigmatic presence, starting an emotional and life-changing adventure.
The movie skillfully follows Akihito’s emotional development, allowing audiences to sympathize with his difficulties and rejoice in the optimism he has discovered as a result of his friendship with Haruna.
Even though this is not the first time we have a movie with the same plotline, “Drawing Closer” gives us the time and space to get attached to these characters.
Visual Elegance and Emotional Depth
Although the movie’s pacing may seem slow to some, we think it gave us enough time to soak in the whole story and properly immerse ourselves in their world. Visually, “Drawing Closer” shines with cinematography that uses beautiful scenery and emotional symbolism to deepen the story.
The movie becomes more than just a love story—rather, it’s a moving exploration of resiliency and the beauty that can be found in the middle of uncertainty in life.
In “Drawing Closer,” the film’s examination of difficult issues is elevated by the acting performances’ genuineness and emotional depth. Ren Nagase captures Akihito’s path from hopelessness to regaining optimism in the face of a terminal disease in a powerful way.
Nagase’s subtle acting effectively captures Akihito’s inner conflicts and slow transformation, giving the character a real sense of depth and sincerity.
Natsuki Deguchi, who plays Haruna Sakurai opposite Nagase, is outstanding; her colourful and mysterious personality contrasts with Akihito’s introverted demeanor. By striking a balance between strength and sensitivity,
Deguchi’s portrayal gives Haruna a deeper sense of complexity and motive. Her captivating performance deepens the film’s plot while also assisting Akihito’s emotional development.
“Drawing Closer” skillfully examines the fragility of life and the transforming potential of unforeseen events. The movie shows how human ties, despite challenges, may have a significant impact on one’s view on life and death through the developing relationship between Akihito and Haruna.
It highlights the comfort and hope that genuine relationships can provide, as well as the human spirit’s ability to overcome obstacles in life.
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Conclusion
“Drawing Closer” distinguishes itself within the genre of love stories involving terminally ill protagonists by delivering a heartfelt narrative that resonates deeply. While following a familiar premise, the film captivates with its genuine exploration of love, resilience, and the profound impact of human connection in the face of mortality.
Ren Nagase and Natsuki Deguchi’s sincere performances add layers of authenticity, enriching the characters of Akihito and Haruna with emotional depth and complexity.
Despite its pacing, the movie offers viewers ample opportunity to engage with the characters’ journey, fostering a poignant reflection on life’s uncertainties and the transformative power of relationships.
“Drawing Closer” ultimately emerges not just as a love story, but as a poignant meditation on hope, companionship, and the enduring beauty found amidst life’s challenges. So, it’s definitely worth a watch because it is a real tearjerker!