The movie itself is set almost concurrently alongside all of the 3 episodes, and also assumes that you have watched the episodes, in sort of an "Unlimited Blade Works" sort of way. I don't feel that anyone could understand the three main heroines if they have not seen these episodes, as Miu's character specifically has a really complex history that you need to understand.
Speaking of characters, this is where the movie disappointed me most of all. Out of all the love interests shared between the three females, I can never for the life of me, understand the clingy, overly attached and almost psychotic female character. Without giving much away, Miu is a really, really unlikeable character. Her methods for attaining what she wants are really bizarre and border between the lines of dumb and retarded. [SEMI-SPOILER ALERT. SKIP TO NEXT PARAGRAPH IF YOU DON'T WANT THAT] And yet, the male lead confirms that he loves Miu. That's fine and all, but why? Pity? That doesn't really stand well. They did the same thing in "ef - A Tale of Memories" and that didn't really stand out as the logical option either.
As for the technics of the film, the art is very good. Consistent and well-drawn. The scenes are full of detail, and in itself, is one of those closer-to-reality drawn animes, which is just fine. It means that the backgrounds are easily understandable and don't detract from the dialogue. The music choices also fit in well with the scene. Much to my surprise, there were a fair few impressive voice-actors, and although I couldn't pick up Mizuki Nana, I did instantly pick up Aya Hirano when Miu starting weeping in the hospital. They did a good job with the acting.
Overall, although the movie was well paced and the settings were consistent and interesting, it's the relationship between the male lead and Miu that particularly annoyed me with this film. I just couldn't get entrenched into realizing this setting knowing that their relationship isn't realistic, nor cute, nor fun. It was just painful.
I hope I have not detracted you from watching this film.
-Alex
