The story in itself is passable, while there are likable aspects, such as how the story treats the characters' sexuality with care and respect and doesn't try to make any situation melodramatic. There are certain aspects to the film that may leave the audience wanting more and not fulfilled with the whole experience. At first, the film is short. With an extra 30 minutes added to the film, the characters could've been fleshed out as well as their thought processes could've been made clearer. We only get to learn so much about Shun, a little more spotlight on his character could have helped to connect to him emotionally. His concerns are on point regarding if he should allow Mio to get close to him, however he goes about it in a round about fashion. Given his past, his insecurity isn't uncalled for; but he drags out the matter to the end of the film. Then there is the drama that falls flat, while the film never does anything bad per say, it still lacks a dramatic climax. This again happens due to the short duration of the film. But like I said before it's not all bad, the film does a great job at connecting the audience to Mio's character through aptly placed flashbacks that transition smoothly into scenes at present. And after the timeskip, there is a decent romantic development between the lead characters despite the impediments that Shun is able to bring into the relationship by himself.
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There is a sex scene in the movie, however thankfully it acts less like a fanservice scene and more like proper lovemaking scene between lovers. This scene has got good art direction. Another thing worth mentioning about this movie is how it doesn't downplay Sakurako's feelings towards Shun, however the port scene puts a dent into this as she tried to kiss Shun and he didn't deny her advance despite having his boyfriend with him.The cast isn't large in this movie, the main characters Shun and Mio are decent characters. Mio is the better written character of the two. And just like I mentioned before, after the timeskip Shun's actions can get on people's nerves with how he makes the plot go in circles. However, they make a sweet couple that you would like to root for. And despite the minimum amount of screentime given to Shun's backstory, his struggles are still impactful and makes one feel for him. The supporting cast has no one noteworthy except Sakurako, who is a decent character though she does sometimes play into the stereotypical female character in a BL story.
The visuals are gorgeous in this movie, especially the usage of visual metaphors to impart meaning to every scene. The cinematography is quite good as well, the shots are taken from interesting angles. The usage of colors is on point as well, and I felt like I was sitting near the sea while watching the movie. The character designs are good as well, they have soft line art and the eyes especially are drawn really well to evoke feelings of warmth and empathy towards the characters, and feel for them. The backgrounds are gorgeous, and could easily serve as wallpapers.
The OST though for most part provides the movie decent support, it lacks diversity. For most part it's the same track being played. The theme song is decent. The voice acting is decent as well, with special mention to Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Mio's VA), whose voice acting is dynamic as ever in this movie.
While Umibe no Étranger has flaws in its plot and may not be close to being the best in its genre, but with great production value as well as sincere portrayal of homosexual love it ends up being a decent watch.