What Is 5cm Per Second About

So, You Watched 5 Centimeters Per Second? Me Too.

Okay, let's be honest. 5 Centimeters Per Second is beautiful. The animation is stunning, no doubt. But what's it *really* about?

It's basically the cinematic equivalent of that friend who only posts sad, artsy photos on Instagram. You know the type. All moody filters and vague captions about "growth."

Don't get me wrong. Feeling sad is valid. But 90% of this movie is just characters staring wistfully into the distance. And snow. Lots of snow.

The Plot (or Lack Thereof)

Essentially, two kids, Takaki and Akari, are super close. Then, they move. *Gasp!* Tragedy!

They write letters for a while. A single tear rolls down your cheek. Then… even *more* moving happens. Life is so unfair!

And that's pretty much it. Seriously. That's the emotional rollercoaster we're strapped into. Expect less rollercoaster, more gentle kiddy ride.

Unpopular Opinion Time: It's Overrated

Okay, I said it. Prepare for the internet to come at me. But hear me out. Is it a visually appealing story about missed connections? Yes. But deeply profound? I'm not so sure.

The characters feel a little... flat. We don't really *know* them. We just know they are sad and can't seem to work out their issues.

I get it, distance is hard. But maybe try a phone call, Takaki? Just a thought.

The Train Scene: A Symbol... Of What Exactly?

That train delay scene is *iconic*. A symbol of the agonizing slowness of life, maybe? Or maybe a symbol of Japan's punctual train system suffering a rare and catastrophic failure. You decide.

It's certainly visually striking. Especially that leaf blown in the wind. That leaf deserves an Oscar. Best Supporting Leaf in an Animated Film.

But after like, the third time they show the same imagery of a lonely train moving across a snowy plain, the metaphor starts to feel a bit...heavy-handed.

The Ending: A Sigh, Not a Revelation

The ending is... ambiguous. Takaki sees a woman who *might* be Akari. They both turn around. Train. Credits roll. Cue existential dread.

Are we supposed to feel hopeful? Sad? Confused? Honestly, I mostly felt the need for a nap.

Maybe the point is that life goes on. People drift apart. And sometimes, the person you thought was "the one" just becomes a memory. But that doesn't mean you can't at least attempt to find your 'one' through more proactive strategies.

So, What's the Takeaway?

Look, 5 Centimeters Per Second is a gorgeous, melancholic experience. And if you're into that kind of thing, go for it! Have a good cry.

But for me, it's a bit too much style, not enough substance. A pretty picture, but maybe not a particularly deep one. I still find it hard to say why the movie is so popular.

It is a beautiful movie about moving on in life and how distance affects relation and how things change over time. Now, if you will excuse me, I will be going to find a movie with a more 'happier' ending.