The story (9/10), while predictable, is wonderfully delivered. The pacing is exactly right and well paired with thorough character development.
The art (10/10) is stunning in its own right. Beautiful detail and stunning imagery gives the show a bright and colourful feel, at times providing stark contrast to the story itself. What gives this animé a solid 10 out of 10, however, is the animation of the instruments themselves. Any musicians out there can appreciate how badly animated most animé are where the playing of musical instruments is involved, but Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso is a shining exception to this trend. Every key strike, every wrist movement, every bow stroke, hell, even the fingerings on the melodica are correct. Utterly phenomenal.
The soundtrack (11/10) is, without a doubt, the finest I've had privilege to hear. The pianists the studio hired are absolutely fantastic, and the violin, while perhaps not the most technically solid performer on the planet, more than makes up for it in sheer musical prowess. Never in my life have I cried from sheer beauty, but the final number in Shigatsu made me do just that. Unbelievable.
The characters (10/10) are adorable, not overly exaggerated in their characteristics, and (with some exceptions) believable in their development. It is the character development that truly drives home the singular message behind Shigatsu: music is a powerful and wonderful force. It was these heartwarming (and gut-punching) character developments that reminded me why I became a classical musician (and, I'm told, has had the same effect on many of my colleagues). For this reason alone, I feel obliged to give the category a 10.
For sheer enjoyment (10/10), I feel obligated to fully disclose that I am a university educated classical musician, so I am, at best, biased here. That said, anyone who even remotely likes classical music will likely adore this animé - those who can't stand the genre might want to give it a wide berth.
Overall (10/10) Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso is second only to FMA: Brotherhood on my own list. The music is timeless and brilliant, the characters raw and believable, the art stunning, and story brilliant. A must see.
