Tasogare Out Focus
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"I came looking for copper and found gold!!!" Part 1

Honestly, I didn't have high expectations for this manga. I thought it would be just another run-of-the-mill BL, but boy, was I wrong!

The story introduces us to Mao and Hisashi, two teenagers who share a room in a student residence. Initially, they barely interacted; however, one night something completely unexpected happens, and from that moment on they start getting to know each other.

Simultaneously, the manga delves into the storyline of the film club, with Mao serving as the cameraman. The club's advisor is Ichikawa, a charismatic, theatrical, and very funny teacher who, according to his own ... students, is like a teenage girl himself. His rivalry with the drama club, combined with his passion for BL stories, drives him to excel as the movie director, aiming to create a film that could secure first place in the school festival. And, of course, Ichikawa decided to recruit the handsome Hisashi to play one of the leads (this man has such a good eye, really).

However, I must stop here to carefully analyze certain polemical elements:

(SPOILER ALERT)

First of all, at the beginning of the story something quite shocking happens: one character, while asleep, tries to have sex with the other who was awake. Despite it is a problem that, though affecting very few people, also occurs in real life, Mao would have had good reasons not to forgive Hisashi or start fearing him. However, the latter quickly apologized and was even willing to accept the consequences, but Mao has such a good heart that he forgave him immediately.
It's worth mentioning that, in general terms, non-consensual intimate contact is frowned upon within this story, which is a big plus. Additionally, and without wishing to provide major spoilers, two more instances of abuse are depicted in flashbacks, both highlighted with a negative perspective. I am greatly pleased that current BL works aim to illuminate the shortcomings of past BL practices. I had to say it.

As the weeks pass, one of the protagonists starts to become aware of his feelings for his roommate, posing a significant conflict as the other guy is already in a relationship. Nevertheless, the latter also gradually begins to develop strong affection towards him, which felt very natural to me, both in the sense that the development of their relationship feels organic and due to the fact that it's common to prefer a partner closer in age. The final words that a certain character said to his ex were perfect, 10/10. Now this IS the way to deconstruct toxic clichés, dammit!

(SPOILERS END HERE)

My only complaint about this manga is that, although the drawing style is beautiful, there are certain panels where the body proportions look very weird and poorly done, but it doesn't happen often, so don't worry. Anyway, all the guys are so handsome, my goshhhhh.

Finally, the scene where they film the movie’s climax is wonderful and a real tearjerker, and Ichikawa, behaving like the biggest fanboy, represents all of us.

Do you know what the best part is? This story has a sequel! Go and read it!