5 Centimeters per Second
Performance & Direction: 5 Centimeters per Second Review
Last updated: February 24, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is 5 Centimeters per Second (2007) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Animation.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Animation is often anchored by its ensemble, and 5 Centimeters per Second features a noteworthy lineup led by Kenji Mizuhashi . Supported by the likes of Yoshimi Kondou and Satomi Hanamura , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: 5 Centimeters per Second
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2007, 5 Centimeters per Second is a Animation, Romance, Drama anime directed by Makoto Shinkai. The narrative combines stunning visual artistry with storytelling that appeals to all ages. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Kenji Mizuhashi.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Three moments in Takaki's life: his relationship with Akari and their forced separation; his friendship with Kanae, who is secretly in love with him; the demands and disappointments of adulthood, an unhappy life in a cold city. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Kenji Mizuhashi's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Thematic Depth
The anime operates on multiple levels, using its genre framework to explore deeper themes about human nature, society, and the choices that define us.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Solid execution of genre conventions
- Engaging moments that showcase the creators' vision
- Competent performances from the cast
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Some narrative choices that feel predictable
- Occasional pacing lulls in the middle act
Ending Explained: 5 Centimeters per Second
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Makoto Shinkai, 5 Centimeters per Second resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to animation resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Kenji Mizuhashi, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the animation themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of 5 Centimeters per Second reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the anime's tone and style.
Who Should Watch 5 Centimeters per Second?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Animation shows and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Kenji Mizuhashi or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: 5 Centimeters per Second
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $548.2K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
5 Centimeters per Second Budget
The estimated production budget for 5 Centimeters per Second is $5.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: 5 Centimeters per Second
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch 5 Centimeters per Second Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll Amazon Channel5 Centimeters per Second Parents Guide & Age Rating
2007 AdvisoryWondering about 5 Centimeters per Second age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of 5 Centimeters per Second is 63 minutes (1h 3m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, 5 Centimeters per Second is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2007 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5 Centimeters per Second worth watching?
5 Centimeters per Second is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Animation movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find 5 Centimeters per Second parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for 5 Centimeters per Second identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of 5 Centimeters per Second?
The total duration of 5 Centimeters per Second is 63 minutes, which is approximately 1h 3m long.
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Critic Reviews for 5 Centimeters per Second
Beautiful story that had me tearing up at multiple points. I really think each individual story is fantastic, but I was not a huge fane of the second act. I did not enjoy adding a third character into the fold. It would have been better to keep the focus on the main two. Animation is great, but I can tell they were still honing their craft as it was not as sharp as his newer work. Overall, I still really enjoyed this, the short runtime really makes this a fun digestible short with film style quality. Score: 74% 👍 Verdict: Good
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
