Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

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Jason D Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a vibrant slice-of-life anime that tries to pair a tender summer romance with quirky characters and visual flair, but for hosts Kevin and I, it struggled to stick the landing. The film centers on two socially anxious teens: Cherry, a haiku-obsessed boy who uses headphones as a social shield, and Smile, a former influencer self-conscious about her braces. Their connection develops through a record hunt for an elderly man’s lost memento, with romance gently bubbling underneath. While the premise had potential, both of us found the plot “super slow,” the voice acting flat, and the emotional tension between the leads underwhelming. The animation style—filled with pastel and neon hues—was divisive. Kevin found it choppy and lacking fluidity, while I appreciated it as a modern trend in anime, even if it didn’t fully click for me. The comedic moments were few, with the most emotional engagement coming from a late scene where the female lead clumsily handles—and breaks—a decades-old record that had become central to the story. While the message of overcoming insecurity and preserving memories is sweet, Kevin and I agreed the movie didn’t deliver enough humor, character chemistry, or storytelling payoff to make it compelling. As I summed up: “There wasn’t even a ‘will-they-won’t-they’—he just says ‘I like you’ and that’s the end.” What worked? 1. Unique art style 2. Interesting use of haiku and visual motifs 3. A few touching moments, especially with the elderly characters Fails: 1. Flat performances 2. Little character development 3. Low emotional payoff for a romance Verdict: Style over substance in a coming-of-age romcom that barely simmers, let alone bubbles. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 05/13/25 Full Review Hendry L A very light-hearted, sweet romance between two teens who are both self-conscious in different ways. It has a vibrant art style with colours that truly pop. The animation is quite unique, especially in the way the characters move. This is particularly noticeable in the opening mall scene, but I didn’t mind it. The OST is wonderful, and the characters are all very likeable. The story isn’t particularly memorable, as it delves into a bit of mystery involving a music record they’re trying to find. It features lots of typical anime clichés, including the ending. However, it’s a fine watch if you’re just looking for a relaxing 90-minute romance. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 04/19/25 Full Review justin k the writing was sweet and the animation was beautiful, if you like romance anime you will like this. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 03/23/25 Full Review Jameson J Peak just peak no more Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/10/25 Full Review Bharat B How funny that there are only 7 critical reviews and not even one of them says that the movie is bad.but it still has very low imd rating.i can't believe in this site anymore Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 12/29/24 Full Review Willow O It was a beautiful movie, the art was amazing😍 There was funny bits and the ending was amazing! Sad/happy ending. Loved it must watch. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 12/25/24 Full Review Read all reviews

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

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