Closed Note
Closed Note

Closed Note

2007Movie138 minJapanese

Kae Horii moves into her new flat in an undisclosed area of Kyoto. While unpacking her belongings, she discovers a hidden compartment behind a inconspicuous mirror. In that compartment, Kae finds a notebook, that turns out to be a diary belonging to the previous tenant. Later that evening Kae starts to read the diary. The writer of the diary is Ibuki Mano, a young lady about to embark on her first year as an elementary school teacher. Ibuki is also in love with a man named Takashi, who may or may not hold similar feelings for Ibuki.

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Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Ying-Tung TsangGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Set in a Shanghai high school, the film follows a group of teenagers navigating the complexities of first love, friendship, and burgeoning adulthood. The story primarily revolves around a young boy who grapples with unrequited feelings for a girl, while also dealing with the pressures of academics and social dynamics within his peer group. Through their intertwined stories, the film explores themes of youthful innocence, heartbreak, and the poignant memories of adolescence.

Critical Reception

Closed Note received a mixed to positive reception, with many critics praising its sensitive portrayal of teenage emotions and its nostalgic atmosphere. Some found the narrative a bit slow-paced, but generally, the film was appreciated for its heartfelt performances and evocative depiction of young love in a contemporary Chinese setting.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its tender depiction of adolescent romance and its nostalgic tone.
  • Appreciated for its sensitive exploration of first love and youthful angst.
  • Some found the pacing to be a bit too deliberate.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's ability to capture the delicate emotions of young love and the bittersweet memories of school days. Many viewers connected with the relatable struggles and heartfelt moments depicted.

Fun Fact

The film was noted for its atmospheric cinematography, which aimed to evoke a sense of youthful nostalgia and the unique urban landscape of Shanghai during the mid-2000s.

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