“Goodbye, Don Glees!” isn’t your typical coming of age anime. It sidesteps the usual high school drama tropes and instead throws three unlikely friends, Roma, Toto, and Drop jumping into a wilderness adventure that becomes a powerful exploration of self-discovery, friendship, and the bittersweet pangs of growing up.
The story kicks off with Roma, feeling like an outsider in his small town, and Toto, his childhood friend who’s about to leave for Tokyo. They’re joined by the eccentric Drop, forming the “Don Glees” gang. A small incident involving a lost drone leads them on a quest into the vast, unforgiving Icelandic wilderness to prove their innocence. This journey becomes a metaphor for their transition into adulthood, forcing them to confront their fears, insecurities, and ultimately, the changing dynamics of their friendship.
While the premise might sound simple, “Goodbye, Don Glees!” packs an emotional punch. Director Atsuko Ishizuka, known for her emotionally resonant work on “A Place Further Than the Universe,” masterfully crafts a narrative that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the bittersweet sting of farewells and the uncertainty of the future. The film beautifully captures the awkwardness, the unspoken words, and the profound connection between these three boys.
Visually, the film is stunning. The animation, by Madhouse, vividly portrays the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes, from sweeping glaciers to lush green valleys. The character designs are expressive and capture the nuances of their emotions. The soaring soundtrack by Yoshiaki Fujisawa perfectly complements the film’s emotional core.
One of the film’s strengths is its nuanced character development. Roma’s struggle to find his place, Toto’s internal conflict between his dreams and his responsibilities, and Drop’s enigmatic past all contribute to the film’s emotional depth. There’s a genuine sense of camaraderie between the three boys, and their interactions feel authentic and heartfelt.
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant anime that explores the complexities of friendship and growing up, “Goodbye, Don Glees!” is a must watch. Be warned, though: have tissues handy. While not explicitly stated anywhere I could find, the emotional depth and themes of change and letting go hint at a potential inspiration drawn from Ishizuka’s own experiences or observations of youthful transitions, adding another layer of authenticity to the film.
Review Fandom 