Tamariba

When Miwa’s younger brother returns home unusually late one afternoon, he brings an unexpected tale. He had been playing near the Tama River with a friend and an adult man, whom he excitedly claims looks exactly like Johnny Depp. Intrigued by this bold description, Miwa and her friend Aya head to the riverbank after school to see him for themselves. The supposed resemblance turns out to be a complete fabrication, but the encounter leaves a lasting impression nonetheless. Instead of Hollywood charm, they meet Haruo—a goofy, carefree young man who immediately captures Miwa’s attention. Despite his lack of movie-star looks, Miwa quickly develops a deep infatuation with Haruo. She begins talking about him incessantly, much to Aya’s growing frustration. However, a significant obstacle stands in the way of her feelings: Miwa is only a first-year high school student, while Haruo is a fully grown adult. The stark difference in their ages makes any potential romance seem impossible. Yet, Miwa cannot stay away. She starts visiting the banks of the Tama River day after day, steadily getting to know Haruo better as she navigates the complicated boundaries between youthful admiration and reality.