Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

| 2020

Directed by: Kyohei Ishiguro

Main Plot

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop follows the story of two teenagers, Cherry and Smile, who navigate their insecurities and aspirations in a vibrant, contemporary setting. Cherry is a shy boy who expresses himself through poetry, while Smile is a cheerful girl who struggles with her own self-image and communicates through her love of music. Their paths cross during a summer festival, where they bond over their shared experiences and dreams. As they spend time together, they explore the themes of communication and connection, using their unique forms of expression to bridge the gap between them. The film captures the essence of youthful romance and the challenges of finding one's voice in a world filled with noise, ultimately celebrating the beauty of self-discovery and the power of words.

Characters

  • Somegorô Ichikawa voices Fujiyama, an elderly haiku poet who plays a pivotal role in helping the main characters connect and understand each other's feelings.
  • Hana Sugisaki voices Smile, a self-conscious girl who hides behind a mask, forming a heartfelt connection with Cherry, a shy haiku enthusiast, during a summer of self-discovery.
  • Megumi Han voices Yui "Cherry" Sakura, a shy haiku-loving teenager who connects with Smile, a social media influencer, through poetry and shared experiences.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop, the narrative culminates in a heartfelt resolution that ties together the themes of communication and connection. The main characters, Cherry and Smile, have navigated their insecurities and personal struggles throughout the film. As they prepare for a local festival, Cherry finds the courage to express his feelings through poetry, while Smile confronts her own challenges with self-image and communication. During the festival, Cherry's poem is projected onto a large screen, symbolizing his growth and willingness to share his emotions. This moment resonates deeply with Smile, who has also been grappling with her own fears. The two characters finally come together, realizing that their unique forms of expression—Cherry's poetry and Smile's music—allow them to connect in ways they previously thought impossible. The film concludes with a sense of hope and renewal, as the characters embrace their individuality and the power of their voices. The ending reinforces the idea that true connection transcends words, and that vulnerability can lead to meaningful relationships. Ultimately, the film celebrates the beauty of self-expression and the bonds formed through shared experiences.

Kyohei Ishiguro Animation Drama Music Somegorô Ichikawa Hana Sugisaki Megumi Han