In the animated film "Dou Kyu Sei – Classmates", we delve into the tender and heartwarming relationship between two high school boys, Rihito Sajo and Hikaru Kusakabe. Rihito, voiced by Kenji Nojima, is the quintessential honor student known for his academic excellence and pristine reputation among peers due to his perfect scores on entrance exams. On the other hand, Hikaru, voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya, springs from a starkly different background as the charismatic member of a band, effortlessly charming his classmates with his musical talent and popularity, especially among girls. Their paths seem unlikely to cross due to their differing social circles, but fate intervenes during a school event that ignites a series of unexpected interactions between the two boys.
The turning point comes when Rihito and Hikaru find themselves paired together for their school's upcoming chorus festival. As their initial conversations blossom into a friendship, Hikaru volunteers to help Rihito refine his singing abilities. This unanticipated collaboration allows them to explore each other's personalities beyond the surface, revealing shared passions, vulnerabilities, and dreams. As they practice together after school, they form a deep bond rooted in understanding and support. The melodic exchanges of their voices not only elevate their musical performance but also intertwine their hearts, fostering an emotional connection neither had anticipated.
As their friendship flourishes, Rihito begins to step out of his comfort zone, finding confidence through Hikaru’s encouraging presence. Contrasting the rigid expectations of academia, their time together becomes an exploration of love, affection, and personal freedom. "Dou Kyu Sei – Classmates" beautifully encapsulates the essence of youthful love and friendship, exploring how two seemingly different individuals can harmonize not only in music but also in life. The film captures the sweet essence of adolescence, reminding viewers of the power of connection and the impact of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Full Cast of Dou kyu sei – Classmates
Kenji Nojima
Rihito Sajo (voice)
Kenji Nojima delivered a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance as Rihito Sajo in the poignant anime movie "Dou kyu sei – Classmates." As the stoic and high-achieving student who finds himself drawn into a complex relationship with his polar opposite, Hikaru Kusakabe, Nojima's voice acting beautifully captures the character's internal struggle and growth. His portrayal of Sajo is marked by a subtle conveyance of the character's emotions, ranging from his initial reluctance and confusion to the eventual blossoming of his feelings. Nojima's performance adds depth to Sajo's journey of self-discovery and acceptance, providing a sensitive and authentic touch to the character's interactions and personal evolution. His ability to oscillate between moments of restraint and vulnerability underscores the film's tender exploration of adolescent love and the courage it takes to embrace one's true self. Nojima's work as Sajo is a testament to his skill in bringing characters to life through voice, making the audience feel the heartbeat of Sajo's world and the profound impact of his relationship with Kusakabe.
Hiroshi Kamiya
Hikaru Kusakabe (voice)
Hiroshi Kamiya delivered a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance as Hikaru Kusakabe in the poignant anime film "Dou kyu sei – Classmates." His voice work beautifully captured the complexities of the character, a popular and somewhat aloof high school student who finds himself unexpectedly drawn to his classmate, Rihito Sajou. Kamiya's portrayal of Hikaru is both charismatic and vulnerable, effectively conveying the character's internal struggle between his public persona and his burgeoning feelings. As the story unfolds, Kamiya's performance becomes increasingly layered, showcasing his ability to transition from confident to introspective, and from playful to heartbreakingly sincere. His voice acting adds depth to the moments of tenderness and tension between Hikaru and Rihito, making their relationship feel genuine and compelling. Kamiya's work in "Dou kyu sei – Classmates" is a testament to his talent for bringing animated characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth.
Hideo Ishikawa
Manabu Hara (voice)
Hideo Ishikawa delivered a nuanced performance as Manabu Hara in the poignant anime film "Dou kyu sei – Classmates," a role that required a delicate balance of warmth and restraint. As the caring and supportive homeroom teacher, Ishikawa's voice work captured the essence of a character who serves as a pivotal figure in the lives of the main protagonists, Hikaru Kusakabe and Rihito Sajou. His portrayal of Hara is marked by a gentle authority and an understated empathy, which becomes a source of comfort and guidance for the students navigating the complexities of adolescence and burgeoning romance. Ishikawa's performance is a testament to his ability to convey deep emotional understanding without overpowering the narrative, allowing the characters of Hikaru and Rihito to shine while providing a stable and nurturing presence that anchors the story. His voice acting resonates with the authenticity of a teacher who genuinely cares for his students' well-being, making Hara a memorable and beloved character in the hearts of the audience.
Crew of Dou kyu sei – Classmates
Full backstage crew list →