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Japanese Cinema

Honey and Clover (2006 Film)

Honey and Clover (Japanese: ハチミツとクローバー, Hepburn: Hachimitsu to Kurōbā) is a 2006 Japanese live-action film directed by Masahiro Takada. Based on the manga series of the same name by Chika Umino, the film explores the lives, artistic ambitions, and romantic struggles of five college students at an art university.

Promotional poster for Honey and Clover
Promotional poster for the 2006 film adaptation.

Plot

The story centers on a group of five art students who form a close-knit circle of friends. Their dynamic shifts with the arrival of Hagu, the niece of an art professor and a recognized child prodigy. Her presence sparks complex romantic feelings among her peers, particularly Takemoto and Morita. Morita, known for his eccentric personality and artistic talent, acts on his impulses, while Takemoto, who is more reserved, struggles to balance his affection for Hagu with his desire to maintain their friendship. Parallel to this, the group navigates other interpersonal challenges, such as Yamada's unrequited love for Mayama, who is himself enamored with an older woman.

Scene from Honey and Clover
A scene featuring the main cast members.

Production and Release

The film was produced and distributed by Asmik Ace Entertainment. It was released in Japanese theaters on July 22, 2006, with a runtime of 117 minutes. The screenplay was written by Masahiko Kawahara, adapting the source material created by Chika Umino.

Cast members in a scene
The ensemble cast during a production scene.

Cast

  • Sho Sakurai as Takemoto
  • Yu Aoi as Hagu
  • Yusuke Iseya as Morita
  • Ryo Kase as Mayama
  • Megumi Seki as Ayumi
  • Masato Sakai as Shuji Hanamoto
  • Naomi Nishida as Rika Harada
  • Seiichi Tanabe as Harada
Character portrait
Character portrait from the film.

Reception and Awards

The film received recognition for the performances of its cast, particularly Yu Aoi. She was awarded "Best Actress" at the 49th Blue Ribbon Awards in 2007 and "Best Supporting Actress" at the 32nd Hochi Film Awards in 2007.

Still from the film
A still from the film showing the characters in an art studio setting.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
Still from the film
A still from the film.
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