Love Live, the series that has touched the hearts of many and united a lot of people. It is no doubt well-loved. So to see a part of such a series end, it must be pretty painful and sad, right?
Story - 6
I give the story a 6 since there isn't really much to it, really. The movie picks off right where the second season ends, with the reveal of the message Hanayo receives after the third years graduate at the end of the last episode of season two. There, they find out that they've been actually invited to perform abroad. Obviously, they take the opportunity and fly to New York to further make people know and acknowledge the existence of school idols, all while Honoka struggles with herself to find closure with the end of μ's.
Yeah, there isn't really much to say about the story, it's simple and plain enough to understand.
Art - 9
Now we're going to the good stuff. This art and animation in the movie is a great improvement from the two previous TV shows. It's more fluid and nicer to look at, something changed about the color, too. However, the greatest improvement in the art and animation, in my opinion, is the animation during scenes where they dance and sing, the CG scenes.
Anyone who has watched season 1, season 2, and this movie know what I'm talking about. The CG animation from the two TV shows were admittedly terrible, they looked really choppy and bland. They obviously stepped up their game in the movie since the dances look smoother and the colors more vibrant (especially during BokuHika, the last song). It was a really nice change, and it made the experience of watching the movie way better.
Sound - 9
Well, since this is an anime that revolves around the world of school idols, music has to play a huge role in this series, and I'm happy to say that they didn't disappoint.
Sure, I really am Love Live trash, so my taste in music may be biased as well, but I really enjoyed the songs that were in this movie. From the first song from the first years, to BokuHika, I enjoyed every moment listening to the music and watching the characters sing and dance. I can't really say the same thing to the BGMs, however. They aren't really memorable. Heck, I've forgotten about most of them.
The voice acting was great. No complaints there.
Character - 10
Now this is the part where the series really shines, in my opinion. The characters are way too lovable and relatable. Watching them interact with their new environment and with each other was extremely enjoyable. Their characters work so well with each other, that they make a scene of them just talking to each other a nice watch.
Sure, the cast may be pretty cliche. Honoka, the energetic and optmistic leader. Maki, the tsundere. Eli, the cool beauty, etc... But they work together in a way that makes you not mind at all.
Enjoyment/Overall - 10
Of course, I enjoyed every second I spent watching this film, and I've re-watched it multiple times already. If you're a fan of the Love Live series, then you should watch this. Actually, if you're a fan of the Love Live series, then I don't know why you haven't watched this already.
However, if you're looking for a film that has a deep storyline, and unique characters, then you're better off looking for another anime movie.
