Doukyuusei: The BL Anime That's Better Than Therapy (And Cheaper Too!)

Kusakabe cupping Sajou's face
Doukyuusei is a must-watch for all BL lovers!

Contents

  • What Makes Doukyuusei Unique from Most BLs?
  • Character Review
  • Animation and Art Style Review
  • Music Review
  • The Manga Vs. The Movie: What's the Difference?

"Doukyuusei" is a coming-of-age tale that explores themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and acceptance.

This BL anime film is seriously the most precious, heartwarming, and visually stunning thing I've seen in ages! The story follows Rihito and Hikaru, two high school boys from different walks of life who unexpectedly find themselves drawn to each other. Whether you're a bit fruity or not, you're bound to enjoy this anime movie!

What Makes Doukyuusei Unique from Most BLs?

Sajou hugging Kusakabe at night
Toxic Yaoi? We only have fluff here!

Doukyuusei is such a breath of fresh air in this toxic yaoi era. Just pure, unadulterated romance!

And that's honestly what makes it so special. The relationship between Kusakabe and Sajou feels incredibly REAL.

It's the kind of love story that could actually happen IRL, you know? You can easily understand and empathize with their emotions because they're so relatable.

It's not always sunshine and rainbows, and Doukyuusei doesn't shy away from showing the struggles that come with being gay in a world that often prioritizes heterosexuality.

Their struggles, joys, insecurities... it all feels authentic and honest. That's why this movie resonates with so many fans. It's not just a fantasy; it's a reflection of the messy, beautiful reality of falling in love.

Character Review

Kusakabe and Sajou blushing after they kiss
Look at these cutie patooties!

The dynamic between Kusakabe and Sajou is everything!

On the surface, they're total opposites: the laid-back slacker versus the serious, studious type. But somehow, it just WORKS. Their interactions are so genuine and heartwarming, and their chemistry is off the charts!

Part of what makes them so captivating is how their personalities shine through, even with the minimal dialogue.

You get these occasional bold statements that just hit you right in the feels, followed by moments of shy hesitation. It's like they're constantly dancing around each other, trying to express their feelings but struggling to find the right words.

And then there's Hikaru, the sunshine boy with his infectious energy and bursts of excitement. He's such a contrast to the more reserved and (let's face it) slightly pessimistic Sajou.

But those contrasting personalities create this amazing spark between them, a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps you glued to the screen!

Even though they're pretty typical character types, the little details and emotional outbursts in their interactions make them feel unique and special.

They're still high school students, and they show it! They make all those hilariously dumb choices that teenagers are known for.

It's so refreshing to see characters who actually act their age, you know? It makes them feel even more relatable and lovable.

Sure, the storyline might be a little cliché (who doesn't love a good "opposites attract" trope, though?), but honestly, who cares when the movie is just so good?

Their love story feels so organic and genuine. It doesn't feel forced or contrived. So it deserves its flowers!

Animation and Art Style Review

Sajou kisses Kusakabe on the lips
The watercolor-like feel of this movie is breathtakingly beautiful!

This movie isn't just a feast for your feels; it's a straight-up VISUAL MASTERPIECE.

Seriously, the animation is so freaking unique and gorgeous, it's like stepping into a watercolor dreamland.

Every frame is a work of art, and I could honestly watch this movie on mute and still be completely mesmerized. I legitimately caught myself staring at the background instead of the actual scene multiple times.

Who cares about Rihito and Hikaru flirting when you can stare at those GORGEOUS cherry blossoms swaying in the breeze? (Okay, I still care about the flirting, but you get my point).

The sketchy, watercolor-ish style is unique and perfectly captures the soft, dreamy vibes of the story. And those muted, optimistic colors? They create a warm, cozy atmosphere that I just want to wrap myself up in.

The scene transitions are especially impressive (that rain scene, though!), but the facial expressions really caught my eye.

The way the characters' faces shift and change mirrors their emotions perfectly... it's just magical. It's like you can feel their happiness, surprise, and longing right along with them.

And those moments where the art gets more abstract? SO cool! It adds depth and symbolism, making the whole film feel even more special.

Music Review

Koutaro Oshio's guitar melodies are basically the soundtrack to my life now. They're so soft and dreamy that they perfectly capture the fluttery feeling of first love. Ugh, my heart!

And then, out of nowhere, Yuuki Ozaki from Galileo Galilei graces us with his angelic voice for the ending song.

Talk about a pleasant surprise! His voice is like honey for the soul, which elevates the entire movie to a new level of perfection.

The Manga Vs. The Movie: What's the Difference?

Kusakaba and Sajou walking together
Doukyuusei Manga cover

When I first read the "Doukyuusei" manga, it felt like the story was on fast-forward, with everything happening so quickly that I barely had time to get to know the characters or see their relationship develop!

But then I watched the movie, and oh my god, it was like night and day!

The creators took those blink-and-you'll-miss-it scenes from the manga and stretched them out, giving the story room to breathe. Suddenly, I could connect with Rihito and Hikaru on a deeper level, to feel their emotions and understand their motivations.

The movie improved on some of the manga's weird or unnecessary moments, turning them into genuinely adorable scenes and making my heart flutter. It's like the creators took the manga and polished it into a sparkling gem!

The only flaw this movie has is that it ends, which is a huge bummer because there are so many swoon-worthy moments that haven't been adapted yet!

If you end up falling as hard for Rihito and Hikaru as I did (and trust me, you will), then you NEED to check out the manga and its sequels. They're the perfect way to fill that empty void you feel when the movie ends!

Seriously, the manga dives even deeper into their relationship and gives you all the adorable moments, heartwarming fluff, and delicious angst you could ever want.

It's like a continuation of their love story, and believe me, you won't be able to get enough!

What are your thoughts on Doukyuusei? Let's talk all about it at the Otaku Community!

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