"Ongaku: Our Sound" aims to explore the world of music through the eyes of a high school band, but unfortunately, it falls far short of hitting the right notes. From its unengaging characters to its disjointed storytelling and troubling handling of sensitive subjects, the film fails to capture the essence and power of its subject matter. Furthermore, its problematic depiction of sexual harassment, where the harasser is rewarded instead of being appropriately held accountable, further undermines the film's integrity.
One of the most significant flaws in "Ongaku: Our Sound" lies in its unengaging characters. Despite the potential for emotional depth and growth, the protagonists remain disappointingly one-dimensional. Their motivations and struggles lack nuance, leaving the audience detached from their journey. The lack of compelling character arcs and authentic connections between them hampers the film's ability to generate empathy or investment from the viewers.
Moreover, the film suffers from a disjointed narrative structure. Scenes transition abruptly, often without a clear purpose or seamless connection, leaving the audience perplexed and disconnected from the overall plot. The pacing is inconsistent, veering between moments of tedious stagnation and rushed developments that lack the necessary buildup. Consequently, the film fails to establish a cohesive and engaging storytelling rhythm.
In addition to its flawed execution, the film's troubling depiction of sexual harassment raises serious concerns. Instead of responsibly addressing this sensitive subject matter, "Ongaku: Our Sound" takes an alarming turn by rewarding the harasser rather than confronting and appropriately addressing the behavior. This narrative choice not only trivializes the seriousness of such incidents but also sends a harmful and confusing message to viewers. By failing to explore the consequences of such actions and perpetuating a problematic dynamic, the film exhibits a concerning flaw in its storytelling and ethical sensibilities.
In conclusion, "Ongaku: Our Sound" is a dissonant and unsatisfying experience. With its unengaging characters, disjointed storytelling, and troubling handling of sensitive subjects, it fails to strike a chord with its audience. The film's flawed execution and questionable choices leave viewers yearning for a more harmonious and thought-provoking exploration of music and its impact.
