This documentary is basically a love letter to a super specific and mostly forgotten slice of queer history—the world of all-male magazines between 1955 and 1973. It’s a really interesting guide that shows how these images changed over the years, eventually moving from still photos into the world of film. Before 1966, these gay magazines were all about musclemen in jockstraps posing like Greek Gods. But then, everything flipped. In this "golden window" from 1966 to 1973, the pages started featuring young guys between 18 and 22 who had boyish faces and totally normal bodies. They weren't gym rats; they were just ordinary kids, often drifters or runaways, who modeled for unknown photographers for just a few bucks. They’d show up in a magazine for a minute and then just disappear. After 1973, the "hardcore revolution" happened, and these softcore magazines became old news almost overnight. Just like that, the whole era was gone. The movie mixes together old photos,...
June 15 marks the date of the death anniversary of Takumi’s older brother. In the past, Takumi had been haunted by bitter memories of the pain he suffered from his family. It was only after he met Gii did he find the strength to confront his fears. This year Gii tells Takumi that he wishes to visit his brother's grave with him, it makes Takumi very happy as he has intended to invite Guii too. However, on the same day, there is a snooker tournament organised by the school to welcome new students. When Takumi finds out that Guii will be taking part in the tournament, he feels betrayed and upset which sends Takumi into a state of utter disbelief and awaken feelings of betrayal from the one person he had come to rely the most on. Can Gui participate in the tournament and yet not break his promise to Takumi?
The biggest problem in Takumi-kun series are the flashbacks. They take place in the current setting with the actors showing very minimal to no changes into their physical appearances from the past and present which can be confusing. The story was more of growth between the relationship of the said couple with a new reason for conflict. Unlike the previous films, the love scene in this one felt forced and somehow didn't go well with the film. It felt forced. But it was good to see Takumi's character's growth from first film to now and how he eventually is slowly coming out of his shell. the other actor splay their respective roles just fine. Its actually a good thing that the makers decided to atop the series here. Things were starting to get repetitive and I, for sure, was starting to lose interest. (4/10)
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