i have so so so many thoughts! i really like that different characters have different outlooks and feelings that are informed by their histories, the characters feel very full and believable, but not in a way where their own motivations are even completely clear to themselves. as with all romance media theres an unhealthy dose of amatonormativity but honestly it feels more muted here? there are plenty of individual experiences that I think are a bit confusing outside the framing of compulsory monogamy, but overall honestly things were pretty good. i'm not sure how much i want to levy this critique but it is noticeable how every character basically considers each other as romantic partners except for people of the same gender, but at that point we're getting into v controversial ideas of mine. i suppose i'll simply say that the consistent privileging and rigid separation of "romance" from other intimate modalities of connection is apparent and disappointing. i REALLY liked how there were constantly moments where characters got together 1 on 1 and discussed things about their relationships. genuinely FANTASTIC feature that is unfortunately incredibly rare. everyone had meaningful interpersonal dynamics even when they weren't direct romantic interests. also for the most part the characters were fairly mature and realistic (you can tell they took the "realistic and honest" philosophy seriously that sometimes there isn't perfection). to be more specific i mean the ability to get rejected and continue living and interacting despite the awkward. the notable exception is when Akari and Kazuomi have a stereotypical miscommunication thing which was disappointing. also i like how for the most part there wasn't a lot of really toxic and disgusting isolative activity ("she's mine, no one else can have any kind of relationship with her!") there was the little rivalry type thing between Agatsuma and Rio but i appreciated [Agatsuma's honesty about what he was going to do and not aggressively taking down Rio and the focus was on building a relationship rather than tearing down others. not entirely sure about my thoughts on the treatment of the parents arguing. Akari telling Yuna not to downplay what her parents had was really good. the way it was resolved was a bit simplistic and too fairy-tale it all works out now, but for a sub-sub-plot it was fine i suppose, i just wish they didn't feel the need to wrap it up so nicely and leave it open a bit. overall danced around the worst romance tropes and ideas for the most part and gave a pleasing and warming story.

RW1: I've seen some vague criticism of the film that it cuts out a lot of the manga (which i still intend to read someday btw), but honestly i love how dense the film is. so many emotions in such rapid succession, a dense thicket overflowing with emotion. directing was incredible, visuals were gorgeous. I like that the missed opportunity at the festival had lasting impact, even if it was eventually resolved (and this is one part of the story i think would benefit from a longer treatment). I LOVE that they don't shy away from heartbreak as a significant emotion and that the conclusion includes it as a part of want real happiness is. its funny that the opening and closing statement about happiness and means to that end is so detached and unfitting for the show. and similar problem with family arc being weird and out of place and awkwardly simplistically resolved, also likely would benefit from more prolonged and subtle treatment. but still, the core of the show is great.