From a technical standpoint, the movie is a visual tour de force. It is now available on Blu-ray, and viewing it in 1080P, the animation and the backdrops are simply stunning. As the movie is set in modern Japan, the locations depicted appear realistic and intricately detailed, but at the same time retain the quality of reinforcing the emotions of the characters in the scenes. The character themselves look far more "ordinary", but that is really only because of how amazingly good the background art looks, and while there is a bit of contrast, the lighting and coloring of the characters are very well done, and it never even comes close to appearing out of place.
But all the best art and animation in the world would not make for a great piece of theatre without the story to back it up. And once again, Shinkai Makoto has taken a common part of life - the growing apart of people due to circumstances beyond their control - and presented it in a very compelling manner. There may be no overarching conflict, or deep philosophical questions to ponder, but the actions and interactions of the characters splendidly showcase the humanity of their relationships and emotions, something that is made very easy for the viewer to sympathize with through the way the story is told. From the blossoming love that encompasses all distances and pains in Ōkashō, to the far-away presence that keeps occupying the mind in Cosmonaut, and finally to the acceptance of life's unavoidable changes in Byōsoku 5 Centimeter, the progression of Takaki and Akari's lives, and the emotional impact from their drifting away from each other is felt can be vividly felt through the film.
No, this movie is not a groundbreaking achievement. But it is a splendid piece of work, and without a doubt the best yet by a film maker who has proven himself a master of storytelling, and something that anyone who considers themselves a fan of movies should owe it to themselves to watch.
