Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop – Vivid Emotions

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop or Cider no You ni Kotoba ga Wakiagaru, released in 2021, is a visually stunning anime film that captures the essence of youthful romance through its vibrant animation, heartfelt characters, and poetic storytelling. Set in a modern urban landscape, the film revolves around the lives of two teenagers, Cherry and Smile, who find solace and connection in an unlikely friendship. Studios Signal.MD and Sublimation worked on this.

The Presentation

The film is visually gorgeous with its lively and vibrant color palette. The bright pastel tones and bold hues easily catches the eyes. It’s like JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure where everything feels like out of the comic book. The use of vibrant colors not only adds to the film’s aesthetic appeal but also effectively conveys the characters’ moods and the atmosphere of the scenes.

The backgrounds are beautifully crafted, depicting a modern urban environment with intricate details. The film captures both the bustling city life and the serene natural landscapes, creating a contrast that mirrors the characters’ emotional journeys. Whether it’s the crowded shopping mall where Cherry and Smile meet or the tranquil outdoor settings where they share intimate moments, the backgrounds are designed to sooth the mood of the scenes.

The film is pretty short with some small segments have energetic movement and animation. But even in subtle scenes, the animators pay careful attention to gestures, body language, and facial expressions, adding depth to the characters’ personalities. Additionally, the film incorporates creative visual metaphors and dreamlike sequences, enhancing the storytelling and adding layers of meaning to the narrative.

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop Story

The story follows Cherry, a socially awkward boy who is passionate in haiku poetry, and Smile, a cheerful girl who hides behind a mask due to her dental braces. They meet at a shopping mall and become unlikely friends, bonding over shared experiences, their love for music, and the desire to understand their own identities. The film beautifully explores their budding relationship and the challenges they face as they navigate adolescence and self-discovery.

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop Characters

First is Cherry, whose name is derived from the Japanese Cherry Blossom or Sakura tree. His character is marked by a deep sensitivity and an acute awareness of the world around him. His passion for words reflects his desire to communicate his innermost thoughts and emotions, often finding solace in the simplicity of haikus. Cherry’s character arc revolves around his journey from social isolation to forming a meaningful connection with Smile. His growth lies in his ability to open up emotionally, embrace his vulnerabilities, and find the courage to express his true feelings. Cherry’s character resonates with audiences who have experienced the challenges of self-expression and self-discovery during their teenage years.

Next is Smile who, on the other hand, is a vibrant and outgoing girl who wears a mask to conceal her dental braces, which she believes make her unattractive. Despite her cheerful demeanor, she struggles with self-esteem and body image issues. Smile’s character is a nuanced portrayal of the societal pressures and expectations placed on young girls to conform to certain beauty standards. Her mask becomes a powerful symbol, representing the barriers people construct to hide their insecurities. Throughout the film, Smile’s journey is one of self-acceptance and learning to appreciate herself for who she truly is. Her infectious positivity and kindness make her a character that viewers root for and empathize with.

What makes Cherry and Smile’s relationship compelling is the way they complement each other. Cherry’s introspection and poetic nature inspire Smile to look beyond her insecurities and embrace her true self. In return, Smile’s warmth and acceptance provide Cherry with the confidence to express his emotions openly. Their friendship blossoms organically, demonstrating the transformative power of genuine connections. Together, they navigate the complexities of adolescence, supporting and encouraging each other to break free from their respective shells.

Themes and Symbolism

The film delves into themes such as communication, self-acceptance, and the power of words. Cherry’s haikus serve as a metaphor for the unspoken emotions and thoughts that people often find difficult to express. The symbolism of the words “bubbling up like soda pop” and the imagery of bubbles rising like soda pop symbolizes the characters’ suppressed emotions gradually surfacing and finding expression. Smile’s mask, too, symbolizes the barriers people construct to shield themselves from judgment and vulnerability.

Deeper Meaning behind Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

At its core, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a meditation on the beauty of human connection and the transformative power of art and expression. It explores how genuine connections can help individuals overcome their inhibitions and inspire personal growth. The film encourages viewers to embrace their true selves, connect with others authentically, and find beauty in the imperfections of life.

The Flaws

While the film excels in its emotional depth and character development, some viewers might find the pacing a bit slow, especially in the first half. Additionally, some elements of the plot could be more fleshed out, providing a more comprehensive understanding of certain characters’ backgrounds and motivations.

Conclusion

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a visually enchanting and emotionally resonant anime film that beautifully captures the complexities of adolescence and the universal struggle for self-acceptance. Its poetic narrative, relatable characters, and profound themes make it a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age stories and heartfelt romance. Despite minor pacing issues, the film’s overall impact is undeniably powerful, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of nostalgia and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of human connections. All in all, it’s a solid 7 out of 10.

Thank you so much for reading ♡. Check this out if you need more anime recommendations. Until next time, take care.