Spring Like Lover poster
#34138 This Week

Spring Like Lover

Spring Like Lover  ·  2017, Japan
6.2
2,131 ratings
1
Film
0
Watchlisted
● Completed 🕑 2017

After Shin grows distrustful of his lover, Kazu, he returns to his ex, Takashi. However, Takashi is now living the life of a heterosexual married man. Kazu feels he has nowhere left to go… (Source: GagaOOLala)

Synopsis
Cast & Crew
Episodes
Reviews (4)

In this raw, 33-minute Japanese short film, love is a cage—and everyone is trying to break free. After a wave of jealousy, Shin (Tact Igarashi) accuses his devoted partner Kazu (Konosuke Furuya) of infidelity. Hurt and confused, Kazu seeks solace in his ex-boyfriend Takashi (Kazuki Kawakami), only to find him living as a straight married man. But Takashi harbors buried desires, and his rekindled obsession sets off a devastating chain of manipulation, blackmail, and violence. As secrets collide, each man must face the consequences of his choices—and the uncomfortable truth that no one is innocent. Blurring the line between passion and possession, *Spring Like Lover* is a brutally honest, emotionally charged drama that refuses to look away from the ugly side of love. Stunning performances and tight direction make this a must-watch for fans of realistic, adult LGBTQ+ storytelling.

RO
Romance
Cast
SF
Short Film
Cast

Episode data is coming soon.

6.2
out of 10
10
304
9
304
8
228
7
533
6
457
LA
love_and_fluff
March 2025
7/10
I went in expecting a sweet BL romance, but this is anything but. The acting is incredible—especially the way Shin's jealousy slowly morphs into cruelty—but the constant cheating and toxicity made it hard to watch. If you want a realistic, painful drama, this is it. Just don't expect a happy ending.
PM
plot_matters
July 2024
6/10
The premise is strong, but the pacing feels off. The last few minutes drag with Shin's prolonged breakdown, and some character motivations (like Takashi's sudden obsession) feel underdeveloped. Still, the actors do their best, and the birdcage metaphor is clever. Not for everyone, but worth a look for the performances.
CE
cinematic_eye
November 2025
8/10
The cinematography is stunning for a short film—tight framing, clever use of mirrors, and a gorgeous bathtub scene that's both intimate and heartbreaking. Every shot feels deliberate. The birdcage symbolism is visually elegant. A dark, beautiful piece of visual storytelling.
CL
critical_lens
January 2026
9/10
This is a brutally honest examination of consent, manipulation, and the consequences of infidelity. It doesn't romanticize toxic behavior—Shin is never excused, and Kazu's victimization is palpable. The scene where Takashi tries to coerce Kazu is deeply uncomfortable but necessary. Essential viewing for anyone interested in complex power dynamics in relationships.