Control Tower (2011)

He's an outcast in school living his boring life then one day an equally timid girl whom is also an outcast appeared to shine light to his boring life. This is basically the plot with coming of age elements and with the theme which is "uncertainty". These kids are just more or less 15 years of age; they have no control with their lives which is frustrating on every teenager's part. There is one big symbolism in this film which you can find in the title "control tower", control tower watches the travelers future and also serve as a mark if you want to return someday. I don't consider this as a romantic movie because I didn't see any romantic love it's more of platonic love. I mean it's not a bad thing because they still have great chemistry and you are free think there is such romance between them if that will make you better.

This film is focused on two characters so it is given that they are the ones to carry this movie which is they did. Yamazaki Kento and Hashimoto Ai are now established actors with talent to back them up, they are quite young here but you can already see signs that they will be great actors some day. Music contributes to the atmosphere of the movie with scenes that are accompanied by soft and melancholic music. Songs are catchy but also vital as it conveys what the characters are feeling, their emotion and every word in the lyrics makes sense. Cinematography is awesome too; I love the snowy landscape which will makes such eerie atmosphere.

It is not a romantic movie which might be disappointing for the fact that these two beautiful person shares good chemistry on screen but it's by no means a bad movie because you will get more than any mediocre romantic movies out there. A typical slow thought provoking Japanese film but it's only over an hour which is short compare to other Japanese movies.

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a raw and authentic portrayal of coming of age and personal growth.

control tower is a film that explores themes of coming of age, personal growth, and relationships, which are common themes in many feature films. however, what sets control tower apart is its honest and realistic portrayal of these themes. the film captures the complexities and challenges of growing up with a raw and authentic sensibility, which may be why you find it more relatable than other films.

mizuho's character is nuanced and multifaceted, and her complexity is one of the films strengths. her introspective nature and stoic demeanor hide a deep well of emotion, which is gradually revealed as the film progresses. her struggles with her identity and her conflicted feelings towards her family are portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, making her a relatable and sympathetic character.

kakeru's character is presented as someone who is struggling to find his place in the world and to connect with others. he feels alienated from his peers, leading him to act out and engage in reckless behavior. hence the need for music, it helps him escape these struggles. however, as the film progresses, we see kakeru grow and mature, as he learns to confront his issues and make meaningful connections with those around him.

overall, its is a unique and memorable film that stands out for its honest and relatable portrayal of coming of age and personal growth. while there are other films that deal with similar themes, the film captures the complexities and challenges of growing up with a raw and authentic sensibility that makes it a compelling and thought-provoking viewing experience.

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