Doukyuusei

“Doukyuusei: A Heartwarming Tale of First Love”

When it comes to shounen-ai (boys’ love) anime, Doukyuusei (also known as Classmates) stands out as a gem that’s both tender and genuine. Directed by Shôko Nakamura and animated by A-1 Pictures, this 2016 film adaptation of Asumiko Nakamura’s manga has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. It’s a story about two high school boys—Rihito Sajou, the quiet honor student, and Hikaru Kusakabe, the rebellious rock band member—who find love in the most unexpected way.

A Story That Feels Real

What makes Doukyuusei so special is its simplicity. Unlike many BL stories that rely on exaggerated drama or problematic tropes, this film focuses on the quiet, everyday moments that build a relationship. From their awkward first interactions to the sweet, tentative steps toward intimacy, Rihito and Hikaru’s romance feels organic. Fans on MyAnimeList rave about how “adorable” and “heartwarming” their dynamic is, with one user gushing, “I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time!”

The film’s pacing is deliberate, letting the characters breathe and grow naturally. A standout scene for many viewers is the sandbox moment, where Rihito and Hikaru share a quiet, intimate conversation. It’s a small moment, but it speaks volumes about their connection. Another fan favorite is the motorcycle kiss, which one reviewer described as “everything—hilarious, sweet, and perfectly in character.”

Art and Atmosphere

The animation style is another highlight. A-1 Pictures opted for a soft, watercolor-like aesthetic that complements the story’s gentle tone. The backgrounds are lush, and the character designs stay true to the manga’s unique charm. Fans praise the film’s “flowy” animation and the way it captures the characters’ emotions without over-the-top theatrics.

The voice acting is also top-notch, with Hiroshi Kamiya (Rihito) and Kenji Nojima (Hikaru) delivering performances that feel authentic. One fan noted, “Kamiya’s voice is so soothing, and Nojima brings just the right amount of energy to Hikaru.”

What Fans Are Saying

The online discourse around Doukyuusei is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it “the best shounen-ai adaptation in years.” Here’s a snapshot of fan reactions:

• “This movie was so cute ;0; the romance made my heart melt!”
• “It’s refreshing to see a BL story without unnecessary drama or toxic tropes.”
• “The ending was a bit open, but it left me wanting more—in a good way!”

Some criticisms include the omission of certain manga chapters that delve deeper into Rihito’s backstory and his relationship with Hara-sensei. One fan lamented, “They cut out important parts of Rihito’s characterization, which is a shame.” Still, most agree that the film does justice to the source material.

Final Thoughts

Doukyuusei is a rare BL anime that prioritizes emotional authenticity over flashy storytelling. It’s a film that lingers in your heart long after the credits roll, leaving you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Whether you’re a longtime BL fan or new to the genre, this movie is a must-watch.

As one fan perfectly put it: “This is how you make a good romance story. I wish there was more BL anime like this.”

So, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, sincere, and beautifully animated, Doukyuusei is the perfect pick. And who knows? Maybe we’ll get a sequel someday—because, let’s be honest, we all want more of Rihito and Hikaru’s love story.

Rating: 9/10
Fluffy, heartfelt, and utterly charming.