Synopsis

Cast & Crew

Episodes

Reviews (5)

Set in the sweltering summer of 2007, *First Love* follows Tadashi, a shy 17-year-old student grappling with his feelings for his best friend, Kota. Bullied by classmates who suspect he’s gay, Tadashi feels trapped between his secret love and the fear of rejection. One day, while riding the train, he spots a gay couple—Hiroki and Sinji—and curiosity drives him to follow them. Through this chance encounter, Tadashi is pulled into the orbit of a vibrant group of older gay men, including the flamboyant and hilarious Keigo, who becomes an unexpected mentor. As Tadashi navigates the choppy waters of self-acceptance, the film also tenderly explores the older couple’s struggle for societal recognition and their dream of marriage. Shot with raw, lo-fi intimacy, this indie gem captures the bittersweet ache of first love and the first steps toward living authentically. It’s a messy, heartfelt, and hopeful portrait of queer youth in early 2000s Japan—perfect for those who crave realism over polish.

Imaizumi Koichi

Cast

Shibata Kei

Cast

Murakami Hiroshi

Cast

Imaizumi Koichi

Cast

Ito Kiyomi

Cast

Romance

Cast

Gay Male Lead

Cast

Episode data is coming soon.

6.1

out of 10

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cinematic_bl_fan

March 2025

6/10

I can see why people love its indie charm, but for me the pacing was a slog. The acting is stiff, especially from the younger cast, and the plot jumps around too much. Still, the wedding scene at the end was genuinely funny and saved it from being a total miss. It’s a one-time watch at best.

queer_eye_analyst

Nov 14, 2024

8/10

This film isn't polished, but it's exactly the kind of representation we needed in 2007. It shows the isolation of a closeted teen, the casual homophobia of school, and the bittersweet relief of finding your tribe. The older couple's storyline about fighting for the right to marry felt incredibly poignant. Imperfect but powerful.

vintage_lens_fan

June 2025

7/10

Visually, this is a time capsule of early 2000s Japan—grainy, handheld, and full of faded yellows. I love the raw, documentary-style intimacy even though the camera sometimes feels aimless. It's not pretty, but it's honest. The wedding scene alone is worth the price of admission for its chaotic energy.

keigo_wedding_planner

Jan 30, 2025

9/10

I'm here for Keigo and his partner! Their story stole the show for me. Keigo is such a mood—loud, shameless, and hilariously extra. Watching him fight for a proper wedding and seeing the community rally around them made my heart soar. Tadashi's story is sweet, but these two are the heart of the film.

hopeless_romantic_xo

Aug 8, 2025

8/10

The ending had me grinning like an idiot. Yes, it's rough around the edges, but the way Tadashi finally embraces himself and the joy of that wedding—pure magic. I shipped Keigo and his fiancé so hard. It's not a typical BL, but it left me feeling warm and hopeful. A hidden gem for those willing to look past the flaws.