Asako I & II is a 2018 Japanese romance film directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi. The film is loosely based on the novel "Netemo Sametemo" by Tomoka Shibasaki. The movie stars Masahiro Higashide as both Baku and Ryohei, along with Erika Karata as Asako.
The story begins with Asako, a shy and reserved college student who lives with her friends in Osaka. One day, she goes to a photography exhibit and meets Baku, a handsome and carefree young man. Asako is immediately drawn to Baku's lively personality and becomes infatuated with him. Baku reciprocates her feelings and the two begin a passionate romance.
However, Baku suddenly disappears without a word. Asako is devastated and spends two years trying to move on from him. One day, she encounters Ryohei, a man who bears an uncanny resemblance to Baku. Asako is both shocked and intrigued by Ryohei's similarity to her former lover.
Despite feeling conflicted, Asako begins dating Ryohei. The two have a sweet and tender relationship, but Asako can't help but compare Ryohei to Baku. Asako's feelings become even more complicated when Baku reappears in her life.
Asako I & II explores the themes of love, loss, and identity. How do we define ourselves and our relationships with others? What happens when our perceptions of the past are challenged by the present? Asako must navigate these questions and decide what is truly important to her.
