Review of Hello World

"I just wanted to see her smile again." First of all, I want to say a huge thank you to The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2021 Online Special without whom I would not have seen this film. This is a very interesting anime feature with a romance at its heart but the sci-fi themes are what you think about most when it's over. At the start, it appears to be a simple, sweet anime but it develops into so much more than that. 'Future' Katagaki is such an intriguing, complex character whilst 'present' Naomi is filled with the naive charm of youth being a stubborn teenagerbut having a hero's heart. I love Ruri - she is totally herself & I want her to be my spirit character lol.
While the first part of the film plays out like your 'standard' 'romantic', high school anime the second part will blow your mind! This is where it gets trippy - a bit of a mix between Inception, Doctor Strange & I don't know what else. It's crazy but this is where the animation shines - the colours are brilliant.
So why only 3 stars? Well, the final part is where it loses some coherence - the science part takes over a bit & I just got really confused about a few things... However, it is definitely worth a watch for the stunning animation & thought-provoking story.

Bonus: The Crow is awesome!

P.S. I'm curious to know if the creators are Doctor Who fans... "Books are the best weapon in the world." 😅