Winter Cicada
(Haru wo Daiteita: Fuyu no Semi)

I am normally reluctant to give any film a rating above A-, but Winter Cicada is as dramatic and touching a film as Grave of the Fireflies. The quality of the art, music and storytelling compel me to give it an A+.

The movie is in three segments. Part one, 'Edo Love Song' begins with a small battle between ships of the two sides and moves to a flashback telling of the circumstances leading to the protagonists' initial meeting.

Set in Japan during the Meiji Era, it is the tale of two young men in service to opposing factions; Akizuki with those who believe Japan's only chance to survive is by opening trade with the western world, and Kusaka, bound to a house supporting the isolationists. Kusaka himself believes that it is better to be prepared and, while searching for books and lessons in English, is befriended by Akizuki who agrees to tutor him. The informal lessons lead to a romantic bond and the first intimate encounter in part two, 'War History of Ezo', wherein Kusaka declares his love prior to leaving for England. During his four year stay, Kusaka enrolls in college classes as Japan moves into civil war. From this point the story is best viewed and allowed to develop without poor reviewers offering their opinions.

The storyline and plot development are excellent for an anime of this genre, the romance is believeable, and the intimate scenes while explicit are not what I would consider graphic and are tastefully done. For me, Winter Cicada is everything yaoi should be and one of the best for introducing first time viewers to mature boy on boy themed anime. This is one video I strongly recommend adding to your yaoi collection. Bring hankies, this is a no mascara movie.