Although I've watched anime and read manga since I was a kid, it's only very recently that I've developed an interest in live action adaptations. I could never really get into it, because I thought the actors were trying too hard to act like anime characters. Granted some of the acting in this did have an anime feel, at least it wasn't overboard in my opinion. Anyway, I decided to give this movie a try, despite the fact that I never read the Peach Girl manga, nor watched the anime, nor watched the first live action adaptation (I know, I know, what an abominable act), so mind you, I came into this with no expectations. In the end, I ended up really liking it - heck I'd say this is has already made it to the top of my list for live action adaptations. I have no idea how dis/similar the actors were to their manga counterparts, so I can't judge whether they did their source material justice, but I can say that for a romance movie this definitely brings in the goods. For a two hour movie, the pacing was good (never felt bored), the transitions into pivotal events was pretty smooth, and by the end of the movie you really gain a sense of attachment to the main characters. I ended up squealing, tearing up, smiling, and giggling a lot throughout the movie. Honestly, I gained a soft spot for all four main characters (and actors, though I was already familiar with and fond of Mackenyu and Mei, as well as Kei Inoo but only as an idol). Now I actually have some desire to read the manga. I guess it's better this way since there's no way for me to feel like I've been snubbed. If the manga really is far better, then my experience with this series will only get better. Anyway, I really do recommend this movie especially to those who are newcomers to the J-drama world or have never seen or read any previous works of Peach Girl, like me. For those who are familiar with Peach Girl, based on seeing other people's comments, I guess stay cautious if you don't want to possibly be disappointed!
