Understated, subtle style typical of the (modern) Japanese drama films I've seen. The acting is good when it wants to be, but the writing leaves some gaps. There are slow moments, confusing moments, and cliché moments throughout. The early parts of the film set up a nice payoff near the end, and the ending itself could be considered a nice metaphor…but I didn't enjoy this as much as other films in this genre (high school/drama/romance). It's like the concept was still somewhat half-baked, and the script needed a few more revisions. That said, I applaud the cast for working well with what they were given.