Fireworks Fireworks

Shy middle schooler Norimichi is infatuated with his classmate Akari, but fears rejection. During a summer festival, he and his friends have a race to decide who gets to ask her out. When Akari chooses another boy, Norimichi, heartbroken, discovers a magical object that allows him to reset time. He uses this power to try and change his fate, leading him and Akari on a surreal journey through time and possibilities.

Fireworks received a generally negative reception from critics and audiences alike. While its visual style was often praised for its vibrant animation and artistic flair, the film was widely criticized for its convoluted plot, lack of emotional depth, and confusing narrative structure. Many found the story to be underdeveloped and unsatisfying, leading to disappointment.

• Praised for its stunning animation and striking visual design.

• Heavily criticized for a muddled, nonsensical, and ultimately unsatisfying plot.

• Lacked emotional resonance and character development, leaving viewers detached.

Google audience: Audience reviews are mixed, with many appreciating the beautiful animation and unique artistic style. However, a significant portion of viewers found the story confusing and poorly executed, citing a lack of coherent narrative and underdeveloped relationships as major drawbacks.

Nominated for Best Animation Film at the 41st Japan Academy Film Prize.

The film was based on a 1993 anime television drama of the same name, which also served as inspiration for the 2017 feature film.