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Soul Mate (Japanese Series)

By Golu
Is this technically a gay show? Even after getting through the whole thing, that's still kind of tricky to answer. There's never any physical intimacy shown between the two leads, not even a single kiss. What it gives you instead is something that goes way deeper than that. It traces an emotional bond that spans a full decade between two guys who are both dealing with their own baggage, and what they share basically amounts to being soulmates. The story moves across Japan, South Korea, and Berlin. Honestly, whether people want to call what they have a romantic relationship or not doesn't really matter to me. A relationship doesn't need a label like boyfriends attached to it to actually mean something. And closeness doesn't need to be physical to feel genuine. What this show captures is something quieter but way more powerful, a bond rooted in understanding, respect, and just showing up for each other. Across eight episodes, each running 35 to 45 minutes, this is one...
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Let's Eat Together, Aki and Haru: More Please (Japanese)

By Golu
Continuing with the ambiguous love story between Aki and Haru, the sequel of the original movie was much awaited. I was hoping that after having tread the lines of friendship in the original movie, this one will focus more on the actual budding romance and the feeling that the two boys share for one another. It happens but too late in the game. It's only in the last 5-10 minutes of the film when they confess their true feelings and something meaningful happens. Till that point, sadly it continues to be spiritual sequel while retaining the charm of the original film.

Aki and Haru have now lived together for 3 years and are now in their final year of university. The two friends cherish their mealtimes together, enjoying casual chats, playful jokes, and each other's company. They are both at the point where they are looking for a job. Aki is nervous about interviewing but he finally finds a job in home decor. The two friends are quite happy with the news. Haru continues his passion for photpgraphy and he knows that the job in that field would be limited. Knowing this he even declines a video editor job that he gets. Both friends have still doubts on what future holds for them. Closer to finishing the university, Aki gets to know that his job will be in Osaka, which means Haru will also have a look for a new house to live. His worst fear comes true of being away from Haru. He realizes that he is in love with Haru but decides to keep his feelings to himself. Almost towards the end of college year, Haru says that he doesn't want to move the house because it has memories with Aki and this is when Aki confesses that he is in love with Haru. Initially Haru is surprised but quickly realizes that all his feelings for Aki also are nothing but true love. The film ends with Aki moving to Osaka for job but frequently keeps visiting Haru continuing to make memories.

Just like the predecessor, the movie quickly settles into a familiar rhythm, reacquainting us with the two lovable leads. Both the boys are as goofy as before and we continue to see some delightful meals that Aki prepares. Although I do have to say that this time there were too many surprises when it comes to food. The film soon moves to the realistic challenges of two young adults preparing for life after graduation and the uncertainty that the life will bring for them. In that sense the film is very relatable. But then, I was looking for more love and romance and sadly that happens towards the very end of the film.  It acknowledges Aki and Haru's attraction instead of only implying they have a close relationship. I appreciate getting direct confirmation that they are interested in each other. Still the romance is timid, there is no kiss or much physical attraction; it still feels like bromance. Let's Eat Together, Aki and Haru: More Please has a happy ending as the couple plans their future together. The last few scenes show them laughing, goofing around, and sharing hearty meals. Their interactions seem sweet and genuine. The film is a feel good film, but nothing more than that to be honest. I expected a lot form from this sequel, so for me this will be strictly average fare. (5/10)
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