Kids on the Slope

Shy classical pianist and academic standout Kaoru Nishimi starts his first year of high school in Kyushu. After a childhood spent constantly moving, he expects another lonely, uneventful year-until he meets Sentarou Kawabuchi, the school's infamous troublemaker. Sentarou's passion for jazz sparks Kaoru's curiosity, drawing him out of his shell and giving him his first real friendship. Soon, Kaoru finds himself playing piano in after-school jazz sessions at the basement of Ritsuko Mukae's family record shop. As he experiences the thrill of using music to connect with others, his summer becomes one he’ll never forget. "Sakamichi no Apollon" is a story of friendship, music, and love, following three very different people united by their shared love for jazz.