Kojimo Hashimoto’s 2015 movie “Orange” seamlessly blends genres and captivates viewers with its sci-fi and friendship-centered story elements. Despite its cliché Japanese film tropes, “Orange”, with its delicate balance between friendship and trauma, is unlike anything I have ever watched.

The film follows the story of Naho Takamiya (Tao Tsuchiya), a high school student who receives a mysterious letter from her future self. The letter urges Naho to prevent the tragedy that will befall the enigmatic transfer student Kakeru Naruse (Kento Yamazaki) by befriending him and changing his fate.

“Orange” masterfully engages the audience with its themes of identity, friendship, and loss. Its ability to make the viewers question their own opinions on the philosophical aspects of human nature and time makes it an intriguing movie. Given the choice, would one actively help another if they knew the trajectory of their life, even without being properly acquainted or connected? If so, does one do so out of true concern and empathy, or could it just be the fear of regret in the future? The characters grapple with missed opportunities and the consequences of their past actions, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own regrets and seek solace in second chances.

Although the romantic aspects of the movie are quite prominent, the movie’s focus lies on friendship and its ability to heal trauma. The constant guilt and self-deprecation that Kakeru experiences chip away at his self-esteem, leaving Naho and her friends to build him back up. Such heartfelt depictions of friendship pulled at my heartstrings. Despite the cliché tropes and cringy close-ups and slow-motion shots, I’d be lying if I said this didn’t become one of my favorite movies.