The Anthem of the Heart

A-1 Pictures Summer 2015
DramaPerforming ArtsRomanceSchool
7.8
Quality Score
0.24 (Mild Positive)
Audience Mood
6 / 10
Controversy
166,655
MAL Ratings

Synopsis

Jun Naruse is a chatterbox whose life is colored by fairy tales and happy endings. However, influenced by her deep belief in those tales, she is too naive and trusting, and her words soon shatter her family's bond when she inadvertently reveals her father's affair. Naruse is scarred for life after being blamed for her parent's divorce, and her regrets soon manifest into a fairy egg—a being who seals her mouth from speaking in order to protect everyone's happy ending. Now, even in high school, Naruse's speech remains locked by the fairy egg. Even trying to speak causes her stomach to twist. Though unable to convey her thoughts through words, she is unexpectedly chosen to perform in a musical alongside three other students: Takumi Sakagami, Natsuki Nitou, and Daiki Tasaki. Naruse makes her way to the club room to reject the daunting task, but changes her mind when she overhears Sakagami's beautiful singing. Perhaps the fairy egg "curse" does not apply to singing, and perhaps Sakagami is the fairy tale prince she has been seeking all along. Will Naruse be able to convey the anthem of her heart? [Written by MAL Rewrite]

Audience Consensus

The audience generally appreciates 'Kokoro ga Sakebitagatterunda' for its emotional depth, relatable themes, and beautiful music. However, some viewers find the ending unsatisfying, the romance forced, and certain themes underdeveloped. The film resonates particularly well with those who connect with its exploration of trauma and self-expression, but the criticisms prevent it from achieving universal acclaim.

Strengths

  • Relatable characters and situations.
  • Beautiful music and integration with the story.
  • Addresses themes of self-expression and overcoming trauma.
  • Well-developed characters with great dynamics

Weaknesses

  • Ending felt rushed or forced for some viewers.
  • Romance aspect felt unneeded or muddied the message.
  • Some themes felt awkward or underdeveloped.
  • Plot can be predictable or 'by the numbers'.
Available on: Netflix, Bilibili (availability varies by region)