Netflix’s Most Underrated Anime Is a 2021 Movie Everyone Missed Out On

Netflix has become a powerhouse in the anime industry, offering a huge range of series and films that cater to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike, but none is more overlooked than Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop. While blockbuster titles like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and Castlevania have gained widespread recognition, there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The most underrated and overlooked anime masterpiece on Netflix is Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop, a 2021 film that, despite its beauty and emotional depth, has flown under the radar for many anime fans.
This charming film tells the story of an unexpected summer romance between two teenagers who struggle with their own insecurities. With its heartfelt narrative, breathtaking art direction, and poignant themes of self-acceptance and human connection, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a must-watch for anyone looking for a refreshing and deeply moving anime experience. With its enjoyable story and its striking visual style, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop deserves far more attention than it has received.
A Story of Love and Self-Discovery
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a Film That Everyone Can Relate To
At its core, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a love story, but it is far from a typical romance. The film follows Cherry, a socially anxious haiku writer who prefers to express himself through poetry rather than conversation. On the other hand, Smile is a cheerful social media influencer who hides her braces behind a face mask, struggling with insecurity about her appearance. When fate brings them together one summer, their contrasting personalities and hidden vulnerabilities create a beautifully authentic connection.

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What makes the love story so fresh and enjoyable is its exploration of self-acceptance. Cherry and Smile’s journey is not just about falling in love, it is about learning to embrace who they are. Through their interactions, they gradually help each other overcome their fears, showing that love and friendship can be powerful forces in personal growth. The film’s themes resonate deeply with anyone who has ever felt self-conscious or struggled with expressing themselves, making it an incredibly relatable and heartwarming experience.
Beyond the romance, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop also paints a vivid picture of fleeting summer moments and youthful spontaneity. The film captures the bittersweet nostalgia of a summer that changes everything, bringing back memories of first loves, personal growth, and the beauty of human connection. Its storytelling is simple yet deeply impactful, proving that sometimes, the quietest narratives leave the most profound impressions.
A Visual Feast Unlike Any Other
This Underrated Netflix Film Has Some of the Best Animation
One of the most amazing aspects of Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is its unique and mesmerizing animation style. Unlike the hyper-detailed realism seen in many modern anime series, the film embraces a pastel-infused, watercolor-like aesthetic that immediately sets it apart. The vibrant color palette, dominated by soft blues, warm oranges, and bubblegum pinks, creates an almost dream-like atmosphere that perfectly complements the film’s themes of youthful romance and self-expression.
The use of color and lighting is used very deliberately in this film to show the characters’ emotions and thoughts. Bright, sun-soaked landscapes mirror moments of joy and excitement, while softer, muted tones show the characters’ vulnerabilities and intimate conversations. The film’s visual storytelling allows the audience to feel the characters’ emotions in a way that goes beyond dialogue, making every frame feel alive with meaning.
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a visual masterpiece that proves animation can be just as expressive as any other art form.
Additionally, the animation plays with perspective and movement in ways that make its story even better. From fluid character movements to creative transitions between scenes, the film embraces a dynamic style that feels both modern and nostalgic. The fusion of traditional 2D animation with bold graphic elements, such as stylized text appearing on-screen to emphasize Cherry’s haikus, adds to the film’s immersive and poetic feel. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a visual masterpiece that proves animation can be just as expressive as any other art form.
Why This Film Deserves More Recognition
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a Hidden Gem in Netflix’s Anime Library
Despite how incredible it is, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is still one of Netflix’s most underrated anime films. While it received positive reviews from those who have seen it, it has not gained the widespread recognition of other Netflix anime projects. This lack of attention may be due to its quiet release amid larger, more action-packed titles like Sakamoto Days or the misconception that it is simply a lighthearted romance rather than a deeply emotional and artistic work.
One of the reasons this film deserves more love is its universal appeal. While many anime films cater to specific genres or audiences, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop offers something for everyone. Whether viewers are fans of romance, slice-of-life stories, or visually stunning animation, this film has something to offer. It does not rely on heavy action or dramatic twists to keep its audiences’ attention; its strength lies in its simplicity, its heart, and its ability to evoke genuine emotion.
The film’s themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and the power of words also make it incredibly relevant in today’s world. In an era where social media often amplifies insecurities, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop serves as a gentle reminder that true beauty lies in authenticity and connection. Cherry and Smile’s journey encourages viewers to embrace their imperfections and find confidence in their unique voices, a message that resonates across all cultures and generations.
Netflix’s Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a hidden gem that deserves far more recognition than it has received. Its heartfelt story, breathtaking animation, and powerful themes make it an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression. While it may not have the mainstream popularity of other Netflix anime like Blue Box, it is a must-watch for anyone looking for a touching, visually stunning, and deeply emotional story.
Anime fans who have not seen this film, now is the perfect time to experience its magic. For both longtime anime viewers and everyone looking for a beautiful and heartfelt film, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is an absolute must-watch. Do not let this underrated masterpiece slip through the cracks, give it the recognition it truly deserves.

- Release Date
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July 22, 2021
- Runtime
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88 minutes
- Director
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Kyohei Ishiguro
- Writers
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Dai Sato
- Producers
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Katsuji Morishita, Motoki Mukaichi, Toshihiro Takahashi, Satoshi Fukao, Hiroyuki Birukawa, Jun Koishikawa, Shosei Ito, Yoshikuni Murata, Yoshimoto Ishikawa, Shuzo Kasahara
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Hana Sugisaki
Smile (voice)
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Ichikawa Somegorō VIII
Cherry (voice)
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Megumi Han
Beaver (voice)
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Natsuki Hanae
Japan (voice)
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