Is Chihayafuru: Part I Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2016)

📖 The Core Premise

Chihayafuru: Part I returns to the screen in 2016, bringing a fresh narrative to the Romance, Comedy, Drama genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "When Chihaya Ayase was in the 6th grade of elementary school, she met Arata Wataya. Arata Wataya transferred from Fukui Prefecture. Taichi Mashima was Chihaya Ayase's friend since they were little. Arata got close to Chihaya and Taichi from the card game karuta. Four years later, Chihaya is a high school student. Chihaya learns that Arata, who went back to Fukui Prefecture, doesn't play karuta anymore. Believing they will meet Arata again, Chihaya and Taichi starts a karuta club at their high school."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Chihayafuru: Part I, Suzu Hirose delivers a performance that anchors the emotional weight of the film. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Romance. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Chihayafuru: Part I worth your time? If you appreciate Romance, Comedy, Drama films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Chihayafuru: Part I is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 111 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.