Life as a couple isn't always smooth sailing, is it? While we're often treated to romantic films that show us the happy side of things, this time I'd like to recommend a film that's very realistic.
WE MADE A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET
The story begins with the mundane lives of two young people named Mugi Yamane (Masaki Suda) and Kinu Hachiya (Kasumi Arimura). Both are university students with many shared interests, such as: being late for a show they’ve already bought tickets for. Loving to read books and manga, and many other things. Their chance encounter, when both were late catching the last train, led to a romantic relationship that they continued for nearly five years.
Five years of joy and no major storms, but is that enough to keep them together? Is it enough to lead them to marriage?
After going through the storm of job hunting, which also became a search for their true selves, determining the fate of their relationship. Kinu managed to secure a job at a company, and Mugi also led a similar life, but the challenges faced in their work made their romantic relationship feel hollow. Both Mugi and Kinu consciously felt that all the love they had to give to their partner was gone, even when they tried to dig deeper. Nothing. Empty. That’s what they felt towards each other.
Finally, there is a painful separation. I think this is the reaction. When there is no longer any desire in the relationship, no matter how hard they try, separation is the best way out. Although Mugi does not want to separate, he is also aware and tired of trying to rekindle the desire but failing.
CHARACTERISTICS
- Mugi Yamana
Like most men in a relationship, Mugi wants to take responsibility for Kinu’s life, his girlfriend. He wants to provide a safe space for Kinu when they live together. Even though Kinu doesn’t understand his exhaustion from work, Mugi keeps trying to make things better again and again. Until he reaches his limit.
- Kinu Hachiya
In my personal opinion, Kinu is a fairly selfish girl. How she only thinks about herself and focuses on her own feelings while her partner tries to make Kinu comfortable. This separation finally happens when both of them are truly convinced that they have reached their limit.
SUMMARY
This is truly a romantic film with a bittersweet taste. Sometimes we are carried away by Kinu, sometimes we turn to Mugi. Both of them truly have very human feelings as a couple. And five years is not a short time for a relationship. Mental exhaustion, exhaustion in facing reality and one's partner. Everything is neatly wrapped up in this film. Although it's a bit slow-paced, the messages it conveys are all great. It's perfect to watch with a partner who wants to reflect on your relationship. Though I was a bit annoyed by Kinu’s personality, that might be how I’d feel and act if I were in her shoes. Neither of them is entirely wrong or entirely right. As the title suggests, they’ve done their best, and they’ve created a beautiful bouquet.
Thank you for reading my review. See you in the next one.
Titis N
