Ice Cream and the Sound of Raindrops

Synopsis

Ice Cream and the Sound of Raindrops (アイスと雨音) is a 2018 Japanese drama directed by Daigo Matsui and starring Kokoro Morita. The film delicately explores the gentle and often poignant moments of youth through the lens of its young protagonist, Kokoro, who is navigating the complexities of adolescence beneath the backdrop of quiet suburban life. The story unfolds with a subtle focus on everyday emotions and interactions, painting a tender portrait of growing up, self-discovery, and the bittersweet nature of fleeting moments. Through gentle storytelling and atmospheric visuals, the film invites viewers into a reflective experience that emphasizes the beauty in simplicity and the soundscape of raindrops accompanying the small pleasures of life.

Cast

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  Kokoro Morita

  Kokoro

• 

  Reiko Tanaka

  Reiko

• 

  Taketo Tanaka

  Taketo

• 

  Yuzu Aoki

  Yuzu

• 

  Guama

  Guama

• Jotaro Tozuka

  Jotaro

Reviews

Critical reception for Ice Cream and the Sound of Raindrops has been mixed, with appreciation for its quiet, evocative style but some criticism regarding its slow pace and minimalistic narrative. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1/10 based on user reviews, indicating a modest level of appreciation from general audiences. Reviewers on Asian movie platforms often praise Kokoro Morita's naturalistic performance and the film’s atmospheric cinematography that captures the nuanced emotions of youth. The film was noted for its poetic use of sound, particularly the recurring motif of raindrops which enhances the mood. However, some critics found the film's narrative lacking in dramatic tension or clear resolution, making it a divisive experience depending on viewer expectations. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official aggregate score for the film, reflecting its limited release outside Japan and niche appeal. Metacritic similarly lacks a score due to limited critic reviews. Nonetheless, fans of delicate, art-house cinema have hailed it as a meditative and charming exploration of young adulthood. Overall, the film is considered a tender, if understated, addition to contemporary Japanese coming-of-age cinema.