Ao Haru Ride: The Distance Between Me & You

Ao Haru Ride (アオハライド, Blue Spring Ride)

(Anime 2014)

Studio: Production I.G

Directed By: Ai Yoshimura

Created By: Io Sakisaka

I finally watched the anime, Ao Haru Ride. I actually prefer the anime rather than the manga, but in this post, I’m not going to explain my opinions on it because I saved that for another blog. Instead, I am going to focus on something I couldn’t help but notice while watching the anime.

In Ao Haru Ride, proximity plays an important role in regards to how Kou and Futaba are positioned within the screenshot. This can be interpreted to how close or far apart they are from each other, not only physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. In this post, I will be interpreting the body language of Kou and Futaba through the use of space.

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The Reunion

Futaba and Kou are reunited once again in the very spot they first saw each other on a rainy day in junior high. One would assume that being in a familiar place would break down the tension, but Kou and Futaba are far from that. Also, it is winter time. The coldness adds to the awkwardness.

Different Worlds

First of all, I like to emphasize how Kou and Futaba are in separate windows. In these window frames, we see each of them preoccupied with other things. Futaba is hanging out with her friends and Kou is absent-mindedly walking away. As you can see, they are in their own worlds and don’t seem to care much about each other.

Slowly, But Surely

Kou and Futaba are on speaking terms now; in which one could say they are just classmates or acquaintances. There’s communication and eye contact. However, I like how the window separates the two, which suggests that there is still some uneasiness surrounding them.

No Boundaries

This is as vulnerable you can be with somebody as indicated through their wide eyes. There is no boundaries and little space between the two. One could assume that this is the point of which people feel exposed and let their guard down to talk about real, emotional issues.

Millions of Stars, Lightyears Away

This scene happens right after Kou and Futaba have a heart-to-heart conversation. They walked home together and part ways. In the first photo, the line in the middle of them is a border that shows their separation. Yet even though they are walking away from each other, increasing their distance from each other, they are still united under one starry night sky. This union is shown when they both are admiring the sky and the disappearance of the white line.

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There are many other scenes where proximity is emphasized between the characters. However, I won’t get into more details about them. Next time you watch the anime, though, Ao Haru Ride, be sure to check these scenes out and more.