Having only watched the movie, I must say that Koe no Katachi was a flawed yet enjoyable experience. Let’s dive into the positives and negatives of this captivating story.

Mixed Bag of Characters

Starting with the negatives, many characters in the movie seemed to lack tangible purpose. Characters like Sahara, Kawai, and especially Mashiba felt unnecessary and could have been completely omitted without affecting the value of the film. Even the more significant characters, like broccoli head and Ueno, felt incomplete. The drama surrounding these side characters often felt forced and came out of nowhere. Additionally, their dynamic as a group was vague and lacked depth. While these characters did contribute to the development of the main leads, their execution could have been better. The only exception was Yuzuru, who was utilized exceptionally well.

Pacing Issues

Another drawback of the movie was its occasionally fast-paced storytelling. Some scenes transitioned rapidly, making it challenging to keep up with the plot. While there may be underlying reasons for this narrative style that I might have missed, it left me feeling confused during my first viewing. I plan on rewatching it in the hopes of catching any mind-blowing details that I may have overlooked.

Top-Notch Production and Soundtrack

On the positive side, Koe no Katachi boasts impeccable production values. The animation and artistry are stunning, and the overall quality is undeniably top-notch. The soundtrack, apart from one jarring track early on, was compelling and fitting, enhancing the viewing experience.

Redemption and Growth

Where the movie truly shines is in portraying Shouya’s arduous journey of redemption for his past wrongdoings. His character development is remarkable and believable. I found myself yearning for more scenes with him and Shouko, as their struggles to overcome their issues were the heartwarming highlights of the movie.

To my pleasant surprise, Shouko’s character surpassed my expectations. Rather than just being a vessel for Shouya’s growth, she herself undergoes significant growth throughout the story.

Final Verdict and Potential for Improvement

By the end, I am inclined to give Koe no Katachi a tentative 4/5 rating. The impressive character growth and the endearing bond between Shouya and Shouko truly made this movie memorable. However, I acknowledge that my opinion may improve upon rewatching, as I delve deeper into the intricate details of this thought-provoking tale.

Overall, Koe no Katachi is a must-watch for its beautiful animation, compelling characters, and inspiring themes. Experience the magic of this film and discover the wonders of redemption and personal growth.

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