If you’re a fan of manga, then you’re most likely familiar with the works of Takako Shimura. This talented manga artist has captivated readers with her engrossing and sensitive portrayals of young angst. Yet, it’s unfortunate that her works have only seen limited official releases in English, despite her popularity online. One of her most successful creations, the yuri romance Sweet Blue Flowers (Aoi Hana), was fortunate enough to receive a complete manga run release by Viz and an anime adaptation by Nozomi. However, other works like Wandering Son faced challenges, with the English release being cancelled midway through and the anime adaptation left without a physical release, although it can still be found on streaming services.

Another hidden gem in Takako Shimura’s arsenal is Happy-Go-Lucky Days, a title that was once available in English but has now become a rarity. Digital Manga released it as an ebook back in 2013, but due to licensing issues, it has vanished into thin air. However, there is a shining beacon of hope for Shimura fans – the world premiere of the anime film adaptation of Happy-Go-Lucky Days is now available to U.S. audiences, even before its Japanese release next month. Thanks to the Asian Pop-up Cinema, fans can stream this highly anticipated film from September 15-19.

Takako Shimura never shies away from exploring boundary crossings in her stories. Whether it’s delving into the realms of sex, gender, or age, Shimura fearlessly tackles these complex themes. However, it’s important to note that these elements might raise sensitive issues for some readers and viewers. So, before diving into the anime adaptation of Happy-Go-Lucky Days, be prepared for a tale that includes a teacher who forms a close bond with his students (without crossing any lines) and also discusses young sexuality. Rest assured, though, these themes are portrayed in a frank and honest manner that reflects the tumultuous nature of love, without any prurient intentions.

The film opens with a series of impressionistic stills in soft watercolor, perfectly capturing Shimura’s aesthetic. The images are accompanied by the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar and snippets of city noises, creating a tranquil atmosphere. As the film progresses, we are treated to a series of vignettes, reminiscent of the original manga’s collection of intersecting chapters. Originally published in Manga Erotics F and the BL magazine Reijin, the four stories adapted for the film remain faithful to the feeling and pacing of the original source material.

The first story follows two young women who discover love at a mutual former flame’s wedding. It’s a sweet yuri tale that sets the tone for the rest of the film. The next story features a young male teacher who finds solace in his students, reminiscing about his own lost youth. Although his sentiment of “liking high-schoolers” may raise questions, the story turns out to be endearing and heartwarming.

The last two stories revolve around the relationship between Shinichi and Mika, exploring their journey from fifth grade to junior high. Their bond is tested when Shinichi’s cousin, Sayako, who was thrown out of her house for appearing in an adult video, disrupts their lives. Sayako becomes a source of conflict for Shinichi, teasing him about Mika and causing tension in their relationship. Through their experiences, the film explores how teenage hormones and outside influences can challenge young love.

Directed by Takuya Satō (Steins;Gate, Kase-san, Fragtime), the film stays true to Shimura’s vision but misses the opportunity to bring something new to the table. While the stories hit all the expected emotional beats, they fail to provide additional insights into the characters or their situations. The animation itself, although reminiscent of manga-style, is limited, with moments of stillness and pauses that may seem odd in a feature film. However, the attention to detail in the background art adds a sense of place and depth to the overall experience.

After the credits, viewers are treated to ten minutes of bonus material exclusive to U.S. audiences. The voice actors for the main characters in the film’s last two segments discuss the portrayal of “bittersweet love” and how its themes can be universally understood. They also share their experiences in preparing for their respective roles, providing a glimpse into the dedication and passion behind the scenes.

Overall, Happy-Go-Lucky Days is a delightful way to spend an hour of your time, especially considering the affordable streaming price of $5. Each chapter offers a brief reflection on love and relationships, showcasing what makes them thrive. However, by adhering closely to the source material, the film misses the opportunity to unlock the full potential that animation has to offer.

So, gather your fellow manga enthusiasts and immerse yourselves in the world of Takako Shimura’s Happy-Go-Lucky Days. Experience the ups and downs of love, explore the boundaries of gender and age, and discover the magic that awaits within the captivating stories of this talented manga artist.

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