Ano Hana Ga Saku Oka De, Kimi to Mata Deaetara
2023 / 127m - Japan
War, Romance
3.5*/5.0*
Till We Meet Again on the Lily Hill poster

Plot: Ever since her father died, Yuri has had a rough time at home. He died saving a stranger from drowning but left Yuri and her mother to fend for themselves. After a dispute, Yuri runs away from home. When she wakes up she finds herself in 1945, where she meets Akira, one of the kamikaze pilots of the Japanese army.

Watches

September 21, 2024

3.5*/5.0*

Till We Meet Again on the Lily Hill confirms Narita's talent as a director, but the subject matter here is a bit more iffy. It's a rather blunt story about sacrifice, that thrives on sentiment. I wasn't entirely on board with the message of this film, but as a drama/romance, there are some impressive scenes scattered throughout.

The use of music is strong and the cinematography is slick. The performances aren't quite there though, the leads in particular fall short, and the chemistry between their characters could've used a bit of extra sparkle. It's a pleasant film, but considering Narita made one of my favorite years last year, I expected more.