Yowamushi Pedal (2013) Review in 2025
Yowamushi Pedal is a Japanese sports anime film that follows the story of Sakamichi Onoda, a high school student who joins the school's cycling club and becomes determined to become a professional cyclist.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be of interest to younger children due to its focus on competitive cycling and high school drama.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of sports anime and high school drama. It's a fun and engaging film with a strong focus on character development and relationships. However, it may not be of interest to viewers who prefer more complex or mature storytelling.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film takes a dramatic turn when Sakamichi and his friends face off against their rivals, the Hakone Academy team, in a thrilling cycling competition that tests their skills, teamwork, and determination.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear focus on the main character's journey and his relationships with his friends and rivals. However, the plot can be predictable at times, and some subplots feel underdeveloped.
acting8.00/10
The acting is generally good, with the voice cast delivering strong performances. However, some characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and the acting can be a bit stiff at times.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Sakamichi being a particularly compelling protagonist. His determination and passion for cycling are inspiring, and his relationships with his friends and rivals are authentic and engaging.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the story and its characters. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed, and the pacing can be uneven at times.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful animation and a clear focus on the action and drama of the cycling competitions. The camera work is smooth and engaging, and the use of music and sound effects is effective in enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, stunning cinematography, and a strong focus on character development and relationships.
Cons
Predictable plot, underdeveloped subplots, and some uneven pacing.
Notable Quotes
"'I don't care about winning or losing. I just want to ride my bike and feel free!'"
"'I won't give up! I'll keep pedaling until I reach the top!'"
"'The only way to get stronger is to keep pushing yourself to the limit!'"
