Tunnel to Summer

This reminded me quite a lot of "Suzume" from earlier this year, only here we have a tunnel rather than a door! It's the same boy meets girl type scenario - with both Kaoro and Anzu coming from families with tragedy in their recent history. Legend has it that the Urashima tunnel can grant you anything you wish - but it works out that for 108 seconds in there it takes 3 days off your life in the real world. Kaoro is determined to get his younger (and frankly rather annoyingly enthusiastic) sister back; Anzu to discover the secrets of her grandfather's manga writing so she can excel. The two meet at a railway station, attend the same school and gradually bond - discovering and exploring this mysterious tunnel and ultimately questioning just what they really want from life. The narrative does mingle a careful what you wish for aspect with a grass is always greener one - and the story is quite effective when it dwells on that scenario. Sadly, though, there is just a little bit too much baggage around the characterisations, a touch too much teenage angst and though the animation is quite watchable, the story is over-stretched. It's a nice to watch film, with a pleasing score, but it's not especially original or memorable, I'm afraid.

In my opinion, Tunnel to Summer is undeniably will be one of interesting best 2023 anime candidates to being considered.

Based on my experience, watching Tunnel to Summer without knowing storyline & its trailer would provide an exceptionally captivating experience and this will grow on you If have chances of finish reading its original Light Novel & Manga

Because the main storyline and key messages of both novel and anime is almost the same. The differences are in details + the novel kinda has semi-spinoff story.

Some examples of why the movie is worth spending time watching it :

• Great meaningful key messages
• Other than high quality animation & cinematography, I'm being blown away first time seeing tunnel's interior design and still nowadays curious about inspiration/reference why the tunnel looks like that. I'm really want to see interview from director!

• beyond expectations emotional drama scenes
• Great soundtracks that has its meaning matched with the storyline (Pre-Romance, Finale. & Katappo by eill)

The only downside until now I can think is the storytelling toward the end is quite accelerated to jump into the climax scene which is understandable But if your brain is not fast enough, you might overlooked some interesting detail of the movie.

( It's a bit similar to the feeling of just finished watching Neon Genesis Evangelion, but Tunnel to Summer is extremely much easier to understand❕)

The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes is an anime film that masterfully combines mystery, emotion, and stunning visuals into an unforgettable experience. Its unique storytelling hooks you right from the start, building tension and curiosity as the story unfolds.

Thrilling and Thought-Provoking The film keeps you on edge, with its intriguing premise and unpredictable twists that make you anticipate every moment. As you follow the characters, you can't help but root for them as they navigate their complex emotions and challenges.

Exceptional Animation The animation is breathtaking, enhancing the immersive experience with vivid visuals and stunning detail. It's a key aspect that keeps you engaged, complementing the film's deep emotional beats and thrilling moments.

Characters That Stay With You The characters are well-crafted, with personalities that make them easy to connect with. Their growth and choices leave a lasting impression, creating curiosity about what their lives might be like after the credits roll.

Do you have it? That precious thing lost in the fabric of time. That relationship, that person, that experience that you wish you could return to?

So what would it take, what are you willing to pay, to go back and re live that moment?

I think this is the main idea the anime attempt to crack. I like this line of thinking since it is something that everyone, EVERYONE, can relate to (we all have those memories we wish we could be part of again). But, it was not the case, at least not for him. The protagonist does not try to relive an experience, He wants to flee from the present into the past, to that same experience he yearns.

Well, the hatred of the present actually blinded him of what he's going to loose, what he's giving up, and only when he payed the price he understand he should not have done at.

I find that a really good message, no matter how bad you think your life is, there is always a point of light out there you should try to hold on to.

The movie, I think, suggests a nice point of view on our life and the way we perceive it, It reminds me "About Time" but from a different angle.

Although some stuff in the movie felt forced and not genuine (Sometimes it felt that things happened because the story dictated that, and not through natural line of cause and effect) I still enjoyed watching it, and I'm sure that you will too.

This movie is a hidden gem that is well-directed, animated, straightforward and beautiful story and dialogues. The story begins beautifully with the introduction of a new transfer student, a girl named Anzu Hanashiro. She quickly forms a bond with the main character, Kaoru Tono, and the two of them develop a close friendship.

The animation and scenery are top-notch, creating a truly atmospheric and immersive experience. The characters are also lovable and easy to get attached to, making the story even more engaging.

The movie is heartfelt and will make you feel a range of emotions, from sadness to happiness. The gloomy environment and the characters' struggles will tug at your heartstrings, but there are also moments of joy and hope that will leave you feeling uplifted.

Overall, this is a beautiful and moving film that is sure to stay with you long after you watch it. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys animated movies with strong emotional stories like kiminonawa, koenokatachi, etc.