Review by Deleted

Hana and Alice 2004

This is the kind of story where nothing really happens. It's a slice of life about friendship and ballet, but mostly it's just about two girls living their every day life.

Although nothing really happened, and I keep stressing that nothing majors happens, I still found it quite enjoyable. I didn't find myself rooting for a character, of sharing their feelings, rather I was a voyeur, an observer, oddly mesmerized by this story.

I liked the romantic scenery, even though there was very little actual romance. The sunshine, the flowers, the beach, the nature, all were very soothing to see.

I didn't understand the love, why the she started liking him, what she liked about him, ... The love interest was being very detached and uninteresting (his shocked acting was very awkward), but I guess this is not a story about love, it's about friendship. And I think the story really showed us, how cliché it may sound, that love isn't everything. It happens without reason, but it also will never replace good ol' friendship.

I do have some questions, like what the hinted chaos in their lives meant. I think it may have to do that life, just isn't perfect, and that everything is messy, but that's okay since it shouldn't be an excuse from living your life. Both main characters have their imperfections, which is why it was relatable.

All in all, this was a nice little story, and I recommend it to everyone who likes Japanese cinema, slice of life, and wants to unwind from a busy, hectic day.

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