Look Back Review

Looking back on the past and wishing things had played out differently is something I believe we all engage in. Though it’s a somewhat futile exercise—since we cannot change what has already happened—we must live with the decisions that have led us to our present. Look Back, a 58-minute anime film based on the one-shot manga of the same name, delves into this theme of reflection. Directed by Kiyotaka Oshiyama, known for his work on Chainsaw Man, Flip Flappers, and Devilman Crybaby, the film also explores creativity through the lives of two girls aspiring to create manga.

Look Back follows Ayumu Fujino (voiced by Mizuki Yoshida), a young girl whose manga series is a hit in her school newspaper, earning her laughs and admiration from classmates. One day, her teacher asks if another student, Kyomoto (Yuumi Kawai), can contribute by drawing four panels. Kyomoto, who is reclusive and stays at home, is encouraged to participate to help her engage with others. From this point, the story unfolds as two once-distant lives become intertwined in unexpected and profound ways.

Even though the film’s runtime is just under an hour, every second is used masterfully. Each frame reveals more about the characters and expertly advances the story. When the credits rolled, I had to triple-check my watch—I had watched 25-minute films that felt longer than this one. What truly draws you into Look Back is the incredible blend of storytelling and visuals.

Our two leads, Fujino and Kyomoto, feel authentic. Every action they take seems like how anyone would realistically react, making them genuinely believable people you could encounter in everyday life. Watching their love for art flourish, and seeing how their partnership unlocks endless potential, is nothing short of inspiring. So when tragedy strikes, Fujino reflects on the choices that shaped her journey into adulthood.

The second half of Look Back explores the actions that shape who we are today, posing the question: What if we had done things differently? Would our lives truly be different if we could change the past? The film suggests that if we are destined to achieve something, life will find a way to guide us toward our goals. Much like the Oasis song that may have inspired the title, Don’t Look Back in Anger, there’s no point in dwelling on “what ifs.” We should just go with the flow and live our lives.

Studio Durian delivers one of the best-looking anime of the year with Look Back. Every frame is full of movement, creating vibrant and dynamic visuals. The rich textures and unique art style make the imagery leap off the screen. Combined with Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s masterful direction, the film feels refreshingly distinct from anything I’ve seen in a long time.

Look Back is a beautiful anime film, featuring stunning animation and characters you can’t help but fall in love with. It tells a story that’s both universally relatable and deeply emotional. Don’t waste time wondering why you haven’t seen this film—just go and watch it.