-Story-
Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso's premise is dependent on a blend of classical music, perspective, and the first love experience. Any casual otaku can reasonably predict the overarching storyline early on in the story, and yet there is the often overlooked details within the predictable events that exhibit a sense of raw vibrancy. The inevitable cliches in the show refuse to bow to precedent, vivacious as a certain female violinist. The stagnation, recession, and progression of the story are quite calculated, leaving much room for general complaint and little ability to support said complaint. Ultimately, the story is an honest emotional and philosophical vehicle - you either sit in throughout the journey with conviction or spitefully watch it drift off into the distance.
-Art-
The animation quality and art style are satisfactory. Realistic facial features, probably the most notable effect being lips, show confidence in presenting the show uniquely, as if it were a physical manifestation of the portrayed motifs. However, the sudden chibi art shifts within the show almost suggest budget cuts to the animated quality. The rendering is fluid, and color is a significant factor within the show. Character designs are distinctive, and the complementary backgrounds are satisfactory.
-Sound-
Naturally, for an anime's premise to revolve around music, sound is something not to be scrimp out on. The two sets of OPs and EDs for the first and second part of the show are fitting. The classical music produced throughout the show are, obviously, analyzed within context by the characters. Nonetheless, the monologues that arise during performances take away relative fractions of the immersed experience.
-Character-
Despite the complaints of some viewers of Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso, the characters can be determined as reasonably realistic. Of course, not every background character's life story can be elaborated upon in the span of twenty-two episodes, but the show does a very good job on presenting the dreams, motivations, emotions, and limitations of most of the memorable cast. Perspective is one of the primary factors the show is revolved around, and the characters do their parts accordingly to their portrayal. Casual sayings and quotes, often dismissed as nonsequitur, play a significant role in philosophical development of different characters. Growth and deterioration of a character is an impressive feat Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso managed to pull off, no matter how unlikeable or likeable each character may be to the individual audiences.
-Enjoyment-
Clearly, I've enjoyed Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso greatly. No doubt I'm biased: when there is a show that unreservedly calls for the rememberance of some of a viewer's most bittersweet moments in life, a coolly rational examination of the subject is laughable. For me, this show is both a fascinating adventure and memorable rediscovery.
Perhaps it's true that Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso's core message is irresponsible and immature to a lot of folks out there in the world, but is that not how life becomes blindingly brilliant, at least for a moment?
