When I first heard about The Colors Within, directed by Naoko Yamada, I knew it would be something special. Yamada’s previous works like A Silent Voice and Liz and the Blue Bird left a lasting impression on me, so I was eager to see how she would weave her magic into this new film. What I experienced was a beautiful exploration of emotions, friendship, and self-discovery, told through the unique lens of a story where colors represent human emotions.
The story centers on Totsuko, a high school student who possesses the extraordinary ability to see the “colors” of others’ emotions. Imagine seeing hues of bliss, excitement, or even serenity radiating from those around you—this is Totsuko’s everyday reality. But there’s one color that stands out to her more than any other, the color emanating from her classmate Kimi. Despite not being musically inclined, Totsuko is drawn to Kimi, and together with Rui, a quiet music enthusiast they meet at a used bookstore, they form an unlikely band.
What really stood out to me about The Colors Within was its ability to take something as abstract as emotions and translate them into something visual and tangible. The animation does a brilliant job of portraying these emotions through vibrant colors that change with the characters’ feelings. It’s not just a visual treat but an emotional journey that connects the audience deeply with the characters.
As the trio practices their music in an old church on a remote island, the film delves into their growing friendships and the subtle affections that develop between them. The setting itself is a character in the story, with the remote island and the ancient church adding to the sense of isolation and introspection that each character goes through. The music they create together becomes a medium for them to express their true colors, both to each other and to themselves.
One of the most powerful aspects of the film is how it explores the concept of identity and self-expression. Each character is struggling with their own insecurities and doubts, and through their journey together, they begin to understand and accept themselves. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the complexities of human emotions, making it a poignant and relatable experience for the viewer.
Naoko Yamada’s direction is, as expected, exceptional. Her ability to create a mood and atmosphere is unmatched, and in The Colors Within, she uses every tool at her disposal—from the subtlety of the script to the emotional weight of the music by Kensuke Ushio—to craft a story that is both intimate and universal. The film is a reminder of the beauty that lies within our everyday interactions, and how even the simplest moments can have profound emotional significance.
As someone who has always been fascinated by the intersection of art and emotion, The Colors Within resonated with me on a deep level. It’s not just a film; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. The way it captures the nuances of human relationships, the struggles of self-discovery, and the joy of finding one’s true colors is something that I believe will speak to anyone who watches it.
