There is a condition called Anteretrograde Amnesia whereby a person who has suffered traumatic brain injury cannot form new memories. They can remember things from before their trauma, and can form temporary short-term memories, i.e. they can carry on a conversation and even learn new skills but this new information soon fades and they no longer recall anything from after their trauma. So that would suck.

But if you’re a Japanese college student the obvious solution to this crappy situation would be to join your school’s pro wrestling team. Igarashi was a fan of pro wrestling before his accident and once he joins the team it gives him a sense of purpose and focus. His love of the sport keeps his spirits high in spite of his disability and though he can’t remember any of the moves he learns, his body remembers and he is able to perform them when needed. (My online research indicates this is indeed realistic).

“Gachi Boy” is a screwball, sports comedy and it is quite amusing, sometimes cheesy and over the top in that classic Japanese way (overdone facial expressions and whatnot) but because of the unique protagonist it also turns out to be a genuinely touching story of overcoming adversity. Not that I was crying during the climactic final bout or anything. *cough* I swear I have a heart of stone.

[rating:35]