Is I've Always Liked You Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2016)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2016, I've Always Liked You represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Animation, Drama, Romance category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Love is blooming at Sakuragaoka High School. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Animation, Drama, Romance are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Love is blooming at Sakuragaoka High School. Natsuki Enomoto has finally mustered the courage to confess to her childhood friend, Yuu Setoguchi. However, in the final moments of her confession, an embarrassed Natsuki passes it off as a "practice confession." Oblivious to her true feelings and struggling with his own, Yuu promises to support Natsuki in her quest for love. While Natsuki deals with her failed confession, fellow classmate Koyuki Ayase struggles with his own feelings for Natsuki. Despite his timidness, he is determined to win over her heart. This movie follows Natsuki as she dreams of one day ending her practices and genuinely confessing to Yuu. Meanwhile, close friends also find themselves entangled in their own webs of unrequited love and unspoken affections."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The performance by Aki Toyosaki is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Aki Toyosaki captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Tetsuya Yanagisawa is marked by a steady and professional hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 63 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is I've Always Liked You truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Animation, Drama, Romance, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, I've Always Liked You explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2016 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Tetsuya Yanagisawa respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, I've Always Liked You is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Aki Toyosaki or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, I've Always Liked You is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.