The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl 2018
Directed by
Masaaki Yuasa
Made by
GKIDS
Plot Summary
The movie chronicles the adventurous night of two university students: an unnamed woman known as Kōhai (後輩, “Junior”), and an unnamed man referred to as Senpai (先輩, “Senior”). Throughout the film, the Senpai is intent on confessing his romantic feelings to the Kōhai during their outing, but unexpected events keep them apart for most of the evening.
As fate unfolds, the Kōhai encounters a lecherous individual named Tōdō in a bar, and she bravely defends herself by striking him when he makes an unwanted advance. This act earns her the admiration of two patrons: Higuchi Shishô and Hanuki-san. They entice her into crashing various strangers’ parties, where she indulges in a remarkable amount of alcohol. The night becomes even more thrilling when she engages in a drinking game with Rihaku, a supernatural entity, and emerges victorious.
Simultaneously, the Senpai and Kōhai attend a used book festival, both searching for a cherished picture book from the Kōhai’s childhood. There, Rihaku commands a spicy food challenge, drawing in book lovers eager to win selections from his rare collection. The Senpai soon spots the elusive picture book and decides to compete for it. Despite his success, the contest is suddenly interrupted by the God of Used Book Festivals, aided by the Kōhai, who ensures the books are returned to fair pricing for attendees.
Once in possession of the cherished book, both characters head to their school’s festival. Here, the Senpai discovers that the Kōhai is cast in a major role for a guerilla theatre production’s final act. Eager to support her, he attempts to take on the male lead role but ultimately faces defeat. Unfortunately, he succumbs to a cold, leading him to retreat home.
In the interim, the Kōhai attends to her newfound friends, all of whom have similarly caught the cold from the Senpai, nursing them back to health out of kindness. Her final stop is to visit the Senpai, where he gifts her a copy of Ratatatam and proposes a trip to a used bookstore together. The Kōhai, thrilled by the idea, readily agrees. The film concludes with the two enjoying a coffee together, a prelude to their bookstore adventure.
Timeline
The Start of the Night
The adventurous evening begins with Kōhai and Senpai embarking on their outing together. Senpai is determined to confess his feelings to Kōhai, setting the stage for an emotionally charged night ahead.
Encounter with Tōdō
While at a bar, Kōhai faces an unwanted advance from a lecherous man named Tōdō. Demonstrating her courage, she physically defends herself, striking Tōdō and earning the respect of nearby patrons who encourage her to join their festivities.
Crashing Parties
With her newfound friends, Kōhai crashes various strangers' parties throughout the evening. This wild adventure leads her to enjoy an excessive amount of alcohol, showcasing her carefree spirit and desire for fun.
Drinking Game with Rihaku
Kōhai finds herself engaging in a spirited drinking game with Rihaku, a supernatural entity. Her determination pays off as she emerges victorious, further adding excitement to her night.
The Used Book Festival
Senpai and Kōhai separately visit a used book festival, searching for a particular childhood picture book beloved by Kōhai. Both are unaware of each other's presence, nonetheless each hopes to find the treasured book.
Spicy Food Challenge
At the festival, Rihaku hosts an intense spicy food challenge that attracts many eager participants. The challenge becomes a spectacle, drawing attendees in anticipation of winning rare book prizes.
Senpai's Competition
Spotting the elusive picture book amidst the chaos, Senpai enters the spicy food challenge in hopes of winning it for Kōhai. Despite his determination and skills, things take an unexpected turn during the contest.
The God of Used Book Festivals
Just as Senpai secures the treasured book, the event is disrupted by the God of Used Book Festivals. Kōhai steps in to help rectify the chaos, ensuring that attendees receive the books at fair prices.
School Festival and Theatre Production
Upon obtaining the picture book, Kōhai and Senpai make their way to their school's festival. Here, Senpai discovers Kōhai's involvement in a guerilla theatre production and eagerly seeks to support her by trying out for the male lead.
Senpai's Setback
Despite his enthusiasm, Senpai ultimately fails to secure the role, resulting in disappointment. Compounded by his prior colds, he decides it's best to head home and recover.
Kōhai's Kindness
While Senpai recuperates at home, Kōhai takes the time to care for her new friends, who have also fallen ill. Her nurturing nature shines as she looks after them, showcasing her compassion and support.
A Thoughtful Gift
Once her friends are tended to, Kōhai visits Senpai at his home. He surprises her with a gift: a copy of *Ratatatam*, along with an invitation for a visit to a used bookstore, rekindling their bond.
The Exciting Plan
Thrilled by Senpai's offer, Kōhai eagerly agrees to the idea of exploring a used bookstore together. This shared interest symbolizes a deeper connection, hinting at possibilities for their relationship.
Enjoying Coffee Together
The film concludes with Kōhai and Senpai sharing a peaceful moment over coffee. This intimate setting serves as a prelude to their upcoming bookstore adventure, marking a new chapter in their relationship.
Characters
Senpai (Gen Hoshino)
Senpai is a kind-hearted and somewhat shy university student intent on confessing his feelings to Kōhai. His journey reflects his determination to navigate the complexities of love while juggling unexpected situations. Despite facing challenges, his character embodies earnestness and growth throughout the night.
Kōhai
Kōhai is an adventurous and courageous student whose experiences reveal her spirited nature. She defends herself bravely against unwanted advances and engages in various exciting challenges. Her development throughout the night showcases her kindness and willingness to nurture friendships, making her a relatable and empowering character.
Higuchi Shishô (Kazuya Nakai)
Higuchi Shishô is a lecherous patron at the bar who initially poses a threat to Kōhai but ends up being part of her adventurous night. His character adds a mix of tension and humor, showcasing the diverse personalities that populate the nightlife. Despite his initial intentions, he becomes an admirer of Kōhai's boldness.
Hanuki-san (Yūko Kaida)
Hanuki-san is a friendly and enthusiastic character who invites Kōhai into the world of party crashing. Her vibrant personality lightens the mood and encourages Kōhai to step out of her comfort zone. As a confidant, she plays a crucial role in enhancing Kōhai's night of adventure.
Setting
Time period
The story occurs over the course of a single adventurous night, emphasizing the spontaneity and excitement of youth. This time frame allows for a series of unexpected encounters and experiences that define the characters' relationships and growth. The events unfold in contemporary times, reflecting modern campus life and social interactions.
Location
University, Bar, Used Book Festival, School Festival
The movie takes place across various lively locations, including a bustling university and a vibrant bar where social encounters unfold. The used book festival serves as a significant backdrop, showcasing literature's charm and community spirit. The characters culminate their adventures at a school festival, underscoring the joy of camaraderie and celebration among students.
Themes
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Romance
The movie explores themes of romance through the interactions between Senpai and Kōhai, highlighting the awkwardness and excitement of young love. Their journey reveals the challenges of expressing feelings amidst chaotic circumstances, making their eventual connection all the more heartwarming. The film illustrates how love can flourish in the most unexpected situations.
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Adventure
Adventure is a central theme as Kōhai embarks on a spontaneous night filled with parties and unexpected encounters. This theme emphasizes the thrill of exploration and taking risks, showcasing the joy of youth and daring experiences. Each interaction and challenge contributes to the characters' growth and the vibrant tapestry of their night.
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Friendship
Friendship is portrayed through Kōhai's interactions with new acquaintances and her care for Senpai and his friends. The support they offer each other highlights the bonds formed during shared experiences. The movie showcases how friendships can evolve and deepen even in brief encounters, making every moment significant.
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