Naoko Yamada delivers another sweet serenade to youth, art, and all their transformative power in The Colors Within. At its heart are three eccentric Japanese teens—upbeat Totsuko, troubled Kimi, and shy Rui. They seem misplaced in their worlds until music brings them together, giving voice to feelings otherwise hard to name.

Totsuko attends a strict Christian school yet sees a colorful “aura” around everyone, a quirk she keeps quiet. One classmate shines especially bright, the soulful Kimi, who soon drops out. Totsuko tracks Kimi to a bookstore, where grinning Rui joins their venture. Each faces pressures, but together they find their way through Yamada’s deft touch.

Visually dazzling thanks to Science Saru’s dreamlike animation, The Colors Within explores empathy, identity, and spirituality with subtle grace. Synesthesia enhances Totsuko’s vivid perspective on a story celebrating friendship and the clarity creativity brings. Yamada deepens timely themes from past...