Exploring the nuances of dreams, friendship, and the stark realities of the idol industry, “trapezium” offers a compelling narrative that deviates from the typical feel-good tales we’re accustomed to. Brought to life by Kazumi Takayama, a former member of the idol group Nogizaka46, the movie navigates the journey of Yu Azuma and her unorthodox approach to achieving idol fame. Unlike traditional stories where music and dance sequences take center stage, “trapezium” opts for a more grounded exploration of ambition and the complexities of human relationships.
At the heart of “trapezium” is the ambitious yet morally ambiguous Yu, who, along with her friends, embarks on a mission to stardom using methods that blur the lines between right and wrong. The film boldly questions the authenticity of friendships formed with ulterior motives and the ethical implications of using others as stepping stones to success. Despite this, a thread of genuine camaraderie and the struggles of young adulthood are woven through the narrative, making the characters’ experiences relatable.
What makes “trapezium” notably unique is its subtle but pointed critique of the idol industry, illuminated through its minimalistic approach to music and its emphasis on the behind-the-scenes machinations over glitzy performances. The thoughtful inclusion of the Trapezium Cluster as a motif enriches the film, symbolizing the hopes, dreams, and inevitable growth of its characters. This story might walk us through the shaded avenues of ambition and manipulation, but it also opens up avenues for introspection about the true cost of our dreams and the nature of the connections we forge on our way to reaching them.
