Doukyuusei is a beautiful movie with a beautifully written plot. Possibly, one of the most underrated gay animes' of all time.

In my opinion, the two main characters have just the right balance of cliche and originality to create something special. This movie tackles some complicated and relatable emotions, such as jealously, not understanding your emotions, being confused about your sexuality, being in denial about your problems, and overthinking almost every aspect of your life. This movie is a coming of age story, and also the tale of two naive boys still figuring out life. It is the stress of your future, and also the best memories you made along the way. It is your biggest hopes and dreams, and the crushing blow you feel when you realize they won't last.

As I was watching the story come into its own and the plot beginning to unravel, Doukyuusei began to grow on me. What started off with what I believed would be a mediocre basic love story between two high-school boys slowly blossomed into something greater. Something that struck a chord. The relationship the two protagonists share is not perfect, not by a long shot. Some could make the point it is even an unhealthy one, where desperation is the biggest underlying motivator. However, these people, in my opinion, would be missing the main point of the movie. The classic, perfect gay relationship has been overdone way too many a time. This movie pulls back the curtain a bit, and shows, what I think would be a more accurate example of high-school love. Love with problems, flaws, bitter, raw, emotions.

As goes for visuals and animation, the quality has what you would expect from a small studio. It is drawn well, with care and love shown throughout. The art is pretty, the pictures clear, colorful, and accurate. The voice actors fit their respective characters very well and seemingly make the characters feel more alive. The music in this movie is an amazing touch. It always fits the scene and adds to the immersion of the viewer wonderfully. I especially enjoyed the ending song, as it was the perfect way for the movie to end the way it did.

Overall, this is a gay love story sure to make your heart melt. I would highly recommend this to anyone that likes a little bit of drama, happiness, sadness, and a healthy dose of reality in their life.