Story - 9:
Shigatsu starts out fairly standard and whilst highly enjoyable, it isn't anything especially unique. It is undoubtedly an entertaining show, but it is understandably not compelling "how am I going to wait for next week" viewing. It is especially hindered by some early performances which take a whole episode for a single performance, an element which was a little frustrating for a weekly wait. This would no doubt be remedied if binge watched and is the only major detraction from the story. Where the show flourishes, however, is in its second half, in which characters and their relationships are explored wonderfully. This is due in part to the abandonment to Kousei's original 'disability', allowing the show to demonstrate the power of music on people and their bonds. Episodes 16, 20, 21 and 22 in particular shine because of this strong emotional focus and I would've liked to see this half afforded a bit more time rather than the initial premise. Overall, whilst the story never breaks into completely unpredictable territory, it never needs to as it is through the emotions of the characters and their relationships to both each other and music that the true story is told.
Art - 9:
The art style was admittedly off-putting at first but it ultimately became a defining element of the show once you get used to it. The animation is fluid and whilst it often uses stills, especially in music sequences, this never limits the conveyance of story and emotion. In particular, I must praise the use of chibi animation, always providing a solid laugh amongst all the feels.
Sound - 10:
Ultimately, Shigatsu is an anime about music and I cannot find fault in it. Admittedly, I am not a classical music expert, but everything performed always supported the monologues of the performers and their emotions. The first opening, Hikaru Nara, is amazing, its fun tone truly representative of the mood in that half of the series. The ending is similar in this. The second opening, Nanairo Symphony, feels a little to upbeat for the second half, however I may be unfairly judging this as I preferred the former. The second ending is far more appropriate and seeing next weeks preview was always a treat with its accompaniment.
The VA's all felt right in their role, no obvious and frequent overacting. Kaori's VA is a highlight amongst this, able to deliver contrasting lines with resounding confidence.
Characters- 10:
I could write a very long essay on this, but I'll keep it as brief as possible. Kousei was a surprisingly vibrant character, nowhere near as moody as I expected. His development throughout the series was a pinnacle of the show, it was a treat to see his perceptions towards music and others change as he learns to appreciate his bonds.
Kaori, whilst initially not a far stretch from a tsundere archetype, constantly reflected a lot of hidden depth through her quotes. Her contrasting moods, especially in the second half, always kept me intrigued.
Tsubaki was probably my least favourite of the main four, although I have no particular reason for this. Latter episodes focusing on her were surprisingly enjoyable however, as she too comes to terms with her feelings.
I'll end characters with Watari, who always belied something more than a playboy exterior. His consideration for his friends was always admirable and he was something of a personal favourite, so I would've liked him to have the same of level of development as Tsubaki to see more of his feelings towards Kaori and Kousei.
Whilst there are ultimately many more characters, I will stop the rambling. For such a short series with a large cast, they are surprisingly fleshed out. Their motivations could be petty or seemingly insignificant, but for a show grounded in reality it was a largely accurate depiction of human simpleness. This could be faulted as melodramatic, but such melodrama is arguably a staple of teenage life.
Overall Enjoyment - 10:
Up until the finale I would have had this at roughly 9 and a half. I could argue that I rounded up for fairness sake, but as a subjective review coming off an emotional high... I have no qualms about giving Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso a 10. I have fanboyed over this show for over 22 weeks and whilst at a later date I may return it to a 9, once my emotions have settled down, I encourage all to watch it. Yes, it may be melodramatic at times and the pacing may slip earlier on, but it is ultimately a provocative show about something more than just music. I shed tears with these characters as they explored emotional connections with each other, most of the last episode seen through a watery lens. It was an emotional rollercoaster and I am proud to call it "My Feels in March."
P.S. I have exams in a few days, but I just had to lose my review-ginity to this amazing show. It will definitely stick with me for a long while.
