1st Kiss (2025)
“1st Kiss” (ファーストキス) is a Japanese fantasy‑romance film directed by Ayuko Tsukahara, with a screenplay by acclaimed writer Yuji Sakamoto (known for We Made a Beautiful Bouquet and Monster). It hit Japanese theaters on February 7, 2025.🎬 Plot overview Kanna Suzuri (Takako Matsu) and her husband Kakeru (Hokuto Matsumura of SixTONES) have been drifting apart over their 15‑year marriage. After Kakeru tragically dies saving someone, Kanna finds herself inexplicably transported back in time—to the day she first met him. Fueled by regret and love, she attempts to rewrite the past and avert his death, only to realize destiny resists her every change. Through these trials, both characters rediscover the meaning of love, the power of everyday expressions (“I’m sorry,” “I love you”), and what it truly means to live fully..🧑🎭 Cast & Performances Takako Matsu (Kanna Suzuri): A revered actress whose performance captures the blend of grief, regret, and profound love. Hokuto Matsumura (Kakeru Suzuri): Brings heartfelt authenticity to the younger Kakeru; praised for chemistry with Matsu.Supporting cast includes Riho Yoshioka, Nana Mori, Lily Franky, and others.📈 Critics & Box Office Climbed to #1 at the Japanese weekend box office immediately on release. In Korea, it attracted over 20,000 viewers in just four days. Within ten days, surpassed 540,000 admissions in Japan, grossing over ¥1 billion. Holds a solid IMDb rating of 7.3/10 from around 1400 votes.💬 Critical Insights The Korea Times praised its emotional depth, comedic moments, and simple messages, highlighting the finale—a heartfelt letter—as particularly moving.. Some critics, like Franetic, admired Matsu’s performance and the film's nostalgic visuals but felt that emotional pacing and character chemistry could have been stronger.🎥 Why It’s Worth Watching Combines time‑slip fantasy with everyday romance. A moving exploration of marriage, regret, and the importance of appreciating love daily. Strong lead performances and a screenplay blending comedy, heartache, and warmth.🎯 Conclusion 1st Kiss (2025) is a heartfelt Japanese fantasy-romance film that blends time travel with emotional storytelling. With standout performances by Takako Matsu and Hokuto Matsumura, and a poignant script by Yuji Sakamoto, the movie explores themes of love, loss, and second chances. Its touching message about cherishing everyday moments has resonated with audiences, making it both a critical and box office success. If you enjoy romantic dramas that tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on life’s "what ifs," 1st Kiss is well worth your time.
- 日本語


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