18/20
A high school student determined to become an idol encounters obstacles while pursuing her dream. Along the way, she befriends rising stars from all directions and learns what her bright ambition really means. Based on a Japanese novel by then-Nogizaka46 member Kazumi Takayama. The novel was initially serialized as a serial story in Kadokawa Shoten’s Da Vinci book and manga news magazine from April 2016 to August 2018. Kadokawa Shoten later released the novel in print in November 2018, with a cover by Tae. NanmonaiPerformed by MAISONdes feat. Hoshimachi SuiseiMusic and lyrics by Sakuma. This is an instant hit if you’re looking for a wonderful coming-of-age story about what happens when you take life’s norms for granted and instead take the extravagant leap into the unknown. The characters have great chemistry – the messages and inspirational tones hit many notes, from deeply somber newsflashes to great hilarity, all thanks to the chemistry between the characters and the natural progression of the plot. This film really creates a great progression that makes you feel many emotions as extravagant as the dreams of our protagonists. If you’re looking for a beautiful anime in all areas – be it for the stunning visuals, the soulful tones, or the great time to be young while we can, I can’t recommend the film enough. This story comes full circle, leaves nothing out or to be desired – it’s a star in its own right.
