After hearing about this epic and giving it a shot, I have to write that I was disappointed. I didn't find a lot of realistic depth or subtlety in the behavior and interactions of the characters. In the interactions of the characters, I didn't find the exemplary social intelligence that graces so much of the anime that fascinates me. I didn't get the moments that develop the characters in a subtle or moving way. Really, I must say that the characters and script were, well, all too simple.
Secondary to the lack of depth in the characters and script would be the unconvincing battles. The fleets are led by supposed geniuses, but what the show's creators pass off as brilliant strategems amount to nothing noteworthy, to my mind.
But this anime is widely admired, so what do I know? Give it shot, like I did, and see.
