Strange poster
#26242 This Week

Strange

Strange  ·  2023, Japan
6.8
2,333 ratings
1
Film
0
Watchlisted
● Completed 🕑 2023

Odeko is a timid high school student who attends a cram school and spends his days immersed in studying. One day, he meets Kuma-san dressed as a drag queen and crying in a park at night. As they interact, Kuma-san's…

Synopsis
Cast & Crew
Episodes
Reviews (5)

In the quiet corners of a Japanese city, Odeko is a shy, studious high schooler whose life revolves around cram school and exam prep. One night, he stumbles upon Kuma-san, a flamboyant drag queen sobbing alone in a park. Their unlikely encounter sparks a tender, transformative connection as Odeko is drawn into Kuma-san's vibrant world of glitter and vulnerability. Through late-night conversations and shared secrets, both begin to peel back the layers of their carefully constructed identities. This short film delicately explores themes of self-acceptance, the courage to be different, and the profound comfort found in an unexpected friendship that blossoms into something deeper. With heartfelt performances by Araki Towa and Durian Lollobrigida, *Strange* is a quiet, emotionally resonant gem that proves the most beautiful connections often come from the most unexpected places.

Araki Towa photo
Araki Towa
Cast
RO
Romance
Cast
SF
Short Film
Cast

Episode data is coming soon.

6.8
out of 10
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BA
blossom_and_rain
July 2024
8/10
I absolutely adored the gentle chemistry between Odeko and Kuma-san. Their first meeting in the park felt so raw and real – I cried a little when Kuma-san took off his wig. A beautiful short film that proves you don't need 12 episodes to make your heart flutter.
PL
plotmechanic
March 2025
6/10
The premise is charming, but the short film suffers from pacing issues – the relationship develops too quickly without much build-up. I wanted more backstory for Kuma-san. Still, it’s a pleasant enough watch if you're in the mood for something light and sweet.
LA
lens_and_light
October 2024
9/10
Every frame of this short film is a painting. The way the neon park lights reflect off Kuma-san's sequined dress, the soft focus on Odeko's hesitant face – the cinematography is stunning. It elevates a simple story into something visually magical.
CC
critical_consent
January 2025
7/10
I appreciate that the film treats Kuma-san's drag identity with respect and doesn't use it for shock value. The power dynamics feel balanced, and there's a clear emphasis on mutual consent in their emotional intimacy. It's a small step forward for inclusive queer representation in Japanese BL.
MA
mangaloyalist
May 2025
7/10
Having read the original manga, I think the short film captures the core sweetness but skips a lot of the inner monologues that made the story richer. The performances are strong, especially Durian Lollobrigida, but I wish they'd included more of Odeko's internal struggle.