Trapezium

“Trapezium” – A Fresh Take on the Idol Dream

When Trapezium was first announced as an anime film adaptation of Kazumi Takayama’s novel, fans of idol stories and slice-of-life dramas weren’t sure what to expect. Would it be another cliché tale of a girl chasing stardom, or something deeper? Now that the film has premiered, the verdict is in: Trapezium is a refreshing, emotionally charged journey that stands out in a crowded genre.

The Premise and Production

Produced by CloverWorks (the studio behind SPY x FAMILY and Bocchi the Rock!), Trapezium follows Yu Azuma, a high school girl determined to become an idol. The film, directed by Masahiro Shinohara, doesn’t just focus on the glitz and glamour of the idol world—it dives into the struggles, friendships, and self-discovery that come with chasing such a dream.

The story is adapted from a novel by Kazumi Takayama, a former member of the idol group Nogizaka46. This real-life connection adds authenticity to the narrative, making Yu’s journey feel grounded despite the fantastical allure of fame.

What Fans Are Saying

The online buzz around Trapezium has been a mix of excitement, skepticism, and praise. Here’s what fans are talking about:

1. Authenticity Over Glamour
   Many viewers appreciated that Trapezium doesn’t sugarcoat the idol industry. One fan on MyAnimeList noted, “It’s not just about singing and dancing—it’s about the pressure, the sacrifices, and the friendships that keep you going.” Another compared it to Oshi no Ko, saying, “If you liked the darker side of idol culture in that series, you’ll find something to love here too.”

2. The Protagonist’s Relatability
   Yu Azuma, voiced by Asaki Yuikawa, has been a standout character. Fans love her determination and vulnerability. One commenter wrote, “She’s not just a blank slate for the audience to project onto—she has her own flaws and strengths, which makes her journey feel real.”

3. The Music and Voice Acting
   The film’s vocal performances have also received praise. Some fans even compared the lead singer’s voice to Hoshimachi Suisei from hololive, calling it “stellar, like a comet in the sky.”

4. CloverWorks’ Busy Schedule
   Not all discussions were purely about the film itself. Some fans expressed concern over CloverWorks’ workload, with one joking, “At this point, they’re juggling more projects than a circus performer.” Others defended the studio, pointing out the high quality of their recent works.

5. The Novel’s Influence
   Kazumi Takayama’s background as an idol added a layer of intrigue for fans familiar with her work. One comment read, “I’ve always wanted to read the novel, and now that it’s an anime, I’m even more excited to see how her experiences shaped the story.”

Why It Works

Trapezium succeeds because it balances the dreamy appeal of idol culture with the harsh realities behind it. The friendships Yu forms along the way aren’t just side plots—they’re integral to her growth. The film also avoids melodrama, opting instead for quiet, impactful moments that resonate.

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of idol anime that feel like glorified commercials, Trapezium might be the breath of fresh air you need. It’s a story about ambition, friendship, and the messy, beautiful process of figuring out what success really means.

As one fan perfectly put it: “You fought to the end. You survived. That’s why you’re here now. I think that’s something you should be more proud of.”

And honestly? That’s what Trapezium is all about.

Rating: 8.5/10 – A must-watch for idol anime fans and newcomers alike.

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