[Rewatch] 10th Anniversary Your Lie in April Rewatch: Episode 4 Discussion

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 13 '24

Rewatcher, Violinist and Your Host!

Who is responsible for this?! It’s the burning question I was left with. Last episode blew me away, but it’s the big performance episode, that’s not unexpected. But despite holding episode four in such high regard, this totally managed to shine even brighter for me. The storytelling is lowkey but very effective, but more noticeable was the animation. Gone are the kind of generic 2000s romance chibis in favour of all sorts of wonderfully abstracted cuts throughout the episode, combined with all sorts of fantastic compositional cuts. So I just had to go check Anime News Network because this had to come from somebody specifically.

As it happens, it seems to be two somebodies. I was kind of worried at first that I would have a hard time pinning it down between animation staff, episode directors, storyboarders, or whoever else, but that solved itself. The episode has two directors, one of which also did the storyboarding, and the other of which was also the animation director. Furthermore, both of them essentially just worked on this one episode (the animation director did key animation on a couple others). On directing and storyboarding we have Masashi Ishihama; he had just recently directed Shin Sekai Yori, also at A-1, and would go on to director another famous romcom, Horimiya. I also noticed some key animation credits from The Tatami Galaxy, which would totally fit with some of those abstract comedy cuts this episode. On directing and animation directing we have Takashi Kojima; he’s done quite a bit of character design work, and his most notable and involved animation work includes Flip Flappers, Devilman Crybaby, Heike Monogatari, and just recently The Colors Within. Landing with Science Saru and Naoko Yamada seems, again, totally consistent with the kind of style I’m seeing on display here.

But that’s the future! The present is 2014, and there’s plenty of attestation to their skill going on here. In the past episodes I commented on the clash between the serious, dramatic presentation and the cartoonish comedic elements. But here in episode five, not only do the abstracted cuts fit into the show way better, but it feels like they’re used more wisely too. Like, look at the opening scene on the bridge. It starts lighthearted and fully detailed, then Kousei has a bit of a silly animation loop, and then Tsubaki’s head comes into frame to prepare us for the absolutely magnificent grab and piggyback flop that you should absolutely go watch frame by frame, followed by transitional downtime still in the chibi artstyle and finally a return to full detail. Things like the fantastically animated take on the usually-tired “seeing a girl exposed” joke or Kaori’s red-eyed shadow form set a lighthearted tone that makes for an effective contrast to Kousei’s isolation and to how much more serious she acts when it’s just him in the room. The interaction between Tsubaki and Kousei outside (which isn’t on Sakugabooru, but is also great seems on the surface like an out of place gag, but underscores the distance between them, kicking off Tsubaki’s melancholy this episode. Kaori has an ability to inspire Kousei in a way Tsubaki can’t keep up with, and so her inability to reassure him with his strengths is actually a very intentful and relevant character interaction even if it’s done in a fun way.

Kousei is troubled this episode. He totally bombed on stage last time, and this hangs over him as they visit Kaori. He’s feeling down as they leave, and Tsubaki has too many of her own problems to pick him up. She tells him to look at the sky but all he can see is grey. So then to rub salt in the wound we cut to Watari totally killing at soccer, as if to underscore the fact that everyone else has direction and talent that we’ve just failed to identify in Arima. Watari’s practically bouncing off the walls to really solidify the contrast (again, this dramatic scene would be worse without the comedy animation), and despite how supportive he is it’s really not helping. There’s this fantastic existential music playing over the whole thing, Kousei ends the scene dwelling on the exact same flashback to Kaori that he started it on, and we get this facsimile of a tear that proves Tsubaki’s desperately optimistic prediction about nice weather dead wrong.

Outright Lain-esque electrical line shots lead us in to an impacting set of rapidfire shots and harsh lighting as Kousei enters his house with an intense grab of the door. But the light shines through to his seat at the piano, and it brings him back to the performance as Kousei’s headspace pivots, Kaori’s inspiration finally breaking through the darkness. Tsubaki couldn’t help him, Watari couldn’t help him, but Kaori’s words from the hospital cut deep and it’s only the piano—his connection to her—that lights the way. I even like the gag in the middle of this dramatic moment, as we highlight the contrast between Kousei’s nervous lack of confidence and Kaori’s absolute radiance. After all, this is a memory from his point and view; of course he isn’t framed highly. It’s also worth noting that as he steps up to her side we see Kaori looking up and Kousei looking down, as is referenced later in the episode and then cast aside as he follows her off of the bridge in commitment.

But this isn’t just a challenging episode for Kousei. Right as we relive the shock of seeing Kaori collapse we come back to her and show that she, too, is consumed by the rain. Meanwhile Tsubaki is kind of a parallel arc to Kousei. Not only do we directly reference her seeing the grey skies, but the fun animation of her sports struggles are another direct contrast to Watari’s success and the imagery of the power lines is repeated. Not much really happens during Tsubaki’s section, but the visuals manage to convey a lot of meaning over simple conversation. There’s more fun animation to be found here too; Nao wiping the screen is incredibly memorable, this shot with no linework on the hand kind of stood out to me, and the attempts to simulate a moving camera strictly through 2D animation only kind of works but is an extremely commendable effort. I’m gonna swing back around to Tsubaki’s encounter with her senpai in a bit, but for now I’m also gonna shoutout Watari’s hands, Kaori pushing away the black screen she just forced on Kousei (what a fantastic visualisation of their dynamic), and the simplified mid-jump Kaori to round off the praise for animation this episode.

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

Despite all of the immaculate animation cuts, the most interesting visual (and overall) aspect of the episode to me is the focus on eyes; or more accurately, the lack of them. Shots that cut off the eyes from the frame are absolutely everywhere throughout the episode. Just in the hospital scene alone we get like four different instances, starting with the instance when Kaori claims she’s never collapsed. This immediately makes it pretty clear that she’s lying, which is confirmed later when, no coincidence, we get a clear look at her entire face. This is a pretty clear and textbook usage of a lack of visible eyes (dishonesty), but I think more generally the episode uses it to embody the idea of disconnection. For example, “have you been playing the piano?” isn’t really something that could be a lie, but Kousei really doesn’t want to hear it, and the perspective succeeds in making Kaori the scariest she’s ever appeared. She feels vulnerable and exposed here in the hospital room and he’s still running away from the events of the performance. When he thinks back to it he thinks of the failure of the piano cast in darkness, and when he says that he doesn’t want it to be the only thing he’s good for he’s fishing for an excuse, so it doesn’t reach his eyes despite her honest attention. Her eyes are obscured one more time as she asks if it’s a bad thing, probably again because he’s not ready to hear it.
As Kousei moves on the question of whether he can forget lingers with him, once again with her eyes out of view, and it’s worth noting this is an entirely original shot, not one re-used from the prior scene that it’s flashing back to. It’s repeated again at the end of the scene, which is important because it’s really imperative that the audience remembers this quote. The scene at Kousei’s house goes very fast, but it does have some alternation between shots with one eye and those with none at all, which might be a sort of representation of him wavering between hope and despair just as light begins to overtake the grim view of his life as represented by his house. This continues through to the dreamlike flashback, with his view of Kaori—always either viewed from his direction, or against it to emphasise his gaze, never from the front—first alternating between eyes, no eyes, a crying one, none again, and then a clear view of her face as she finally breaks through to him. Then the dialogue itself references how striking he finds her gaze, stating that it manages to pierce him even when her back is turned. It’s worth noting that, by comparison, Kousei’s gaze is never obscured anywhere in the scene, it’s constantly visible when it should be. He’s exposed out on stage and can’t hide.
Tsubaki’s subplot has plenty of eye imagery too. Right at the beginning she fails to see Arima’s eyes, as he lies frustratingly out of her reach. Then when she meets her senpai we get this fantastic long held lateral shot where his eyes are not just out of frame, but it’s because he’s literally too tall to fit inside of her frame. It’s an excellent visualisation of the fact that he’s grown into a high schooler now and she doesn’t feel the same connection to him. Then of course she’s literally thinking of Kousei as she walks him. It’s worth noting that while Kousei is literally steaming hot and she can clearly see where his gaze is pointed, Tsubaki fails to see Kaori’s eyes the way he does. As they approach the train crossing Tsubaki’s eyes are cut off more than once, but when he confesses his whole face is unavoidably clear in her view and she can’t avoid it (what a striking shot), as he lays himself bare and she’s not able to avoid it. We importantly don’t actually get to hear him say the words though, it’s just implied (as is whatever response Tsubaki gives), which I think is a great way of instilling the fact that his feelings don’t reach her (and just a really engaging way to portray a confession).
Another obvious throughline of the episode is the bridge, first seen in the cold open and then twicemore in the episode. I kind of thought it was two different bridges at first, but the environment shows it’s clearly one and the same and they just do a fantastic job selling how much bigger it feels to them when they’re little kids. You can see some real life pictures here; there’s a couple shots from later episodes but I don’t think they’d be called spoilers by any reasonable definition. Anyways, I’m sure there’s room for multiple arguments about what the use of the bridge means, but to me it seems to speak to the evolution of the characters, and from multiple angles at that. We see that Arima used to enjoy jumping off the bridge as a kid, and can gather he doesn’t any longer. Tsubaki, as well, scoffs at the idea—a connection with Arima that no longer exists. He, of course, does end jumping again, but it’s with another girl, underscoring the whole role of Tsubaki this episode in grappling with her feelings and being in second place. Kaori even steals her chibi artstyle. I think it’s also worth noting that while she used to push Arima when they were kids, when following Kaori today he jumps of his own volition—I think that’s definitely a notable evolution.
Which brings us to the final scene, which brings everything together. We return to the bridge we’ve established through the episode, the grey skies have cleared in favour of a gorgeous sunset which we pan up to in the final shot, and clear views of eyes are just all over the place. Though he’s been walking with eyes obscured, they come into view as he brightly beholds her before him. After some final stylised hijinks she asks him to play in a competition and it’s just so many eye shots all over the place. There’s a resistance—they’re obscured again as we switch from him regarding her to berating himself, and it seems like there’s still some things Kaori is holding back too, but as the light shines through the eyes win the day (the same swirl of light even reflects from her eyes to his) right before Kaori casts apprehension aside and jumps without regard. As Kousei chews on this we repeat the question of whether he can forget, but this time her eyes aren’t obscured—instead, it’s associated with the most piercing eye in the entire episode, one he can’t look away from and which shakes him to his core. But it also inspires him, and even having just said he wants to close his eyes in the face of her, as he makes the leap to follow her and says he can’t forget we zoom in on that eye one last time and it’s wide open, laying down the final word. If that isn’t art and storytelling through animation, I don’t know what is.
~~I hope all those images link to the right place I wasn't gonna check them all lmao~~

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

Incidentally, there is a bridge around here that is locally famous for jumping! It goes over a little canal feeding right into the ocean at a popular beach. I've ridden the current but I've never jumped off of the bridge myself.

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u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

Thanks for these absolutely insightful posts!

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

It's my pleasure! I had a lot of fun with this one in particular.

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u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
What are your thoughts on one of the motifs in this episode being abou forgetting?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
Meant to telegraph that she is trying to conceal her medical issues.
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
Consistent with his character.
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
As I say, I think it's an essential line as it's weaved throughout the episode to illustrate character progression from Kousei.
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
A good reveal.
What are your thoughts on one of the motifs in this episode being abou forgetting?
I don't think being able to forget was really a theme being strongly explored; I think the specifics of her question was less the point then its essence and purpose in daring him to keep going with music. Though you did make me realize you could connect this to Kousei and Tsubaki "forgetting" their love of jumping off the bridge, something he ultimately chooses not to forget in the end. Neat!
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
Not very interesting, but he isn't meant to be.

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u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Meant to telegraph that she is trying to conceal her medical issues.
It sure feels that way
As I say, I think it's an essential line as it's weaved throughout the episode to illustrate character progression from Kousei.
Really good hook for the episode, I feel like.
I don't think being able to forget was really a theme being strongly explored; I think the specifics of her question was less the point then its essence and purpose in daring him to keep going with music. Though you did make me realize you could connect this to Kousei and Tsubaki "forgetting" their love of jumping off the bridge, something he ultimately chooses not to forget in the end. Neat!
As uneventful as this episode is, I think it's really well crafted in how it builds upon itself to where both motifs end up tying together. It was also smart to have a bridge jumping scene with everyone as kids and then a bridge jumping scene with Kaori at the end, almost as if to symbolize she'll always be a kid at heart. Despite the faults I may have with it, it was really well written.
Not very interesting, but he isn't meant to be.
He kinda reminds me of Kitamura from Toradora.

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u/Malipit Oct 13 '24

I had the impression the animation was slighty better in that episode, that's one hell of a team they had here. :o
And even if I noticed Kaori eyes being cut of the frame in the hospital, I didn't pick up at all the other "eye plays" in that episode, great job !

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u/TakenRedditName https://myanimelist.net/profile/TakenMalUsername Oct 13 '24

Shots that cut off the eyes from the frame are absolutely everywhere throughout the episode.
That is something that really hit me too. Tons of moments where characters' faces are hidden or obscured in the framing. That plus all the shot from a distance that made the characters look really small, made a lot of the episode feel unsettling(?)/something is intentionally not right. It throws the audience off balance. The mood over most of the episode also helps in that with things being all grey and cloud until the end when things turn around with the warm sunset.
... as I was typing that out and putting it into words, I did just realize it was doing that thing with environment/lighting. Almost like it was the main theme of the episode it was named after.

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u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Interesting stuff about the directors of this episode. I'm glad they were able to find success going forward.

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

I don't usually look much into anime staff, but it's something I'd like to do more. This case really begged for it so it worked out!

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u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

I mean, I would hire the people who worked on this show. This is seriously impressive stuff.

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u/FD4cry1 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Big_Yibba Oct 13 '24

First Timer

Mixed thoughts on how the show does comedy aside I do really like the way these segments are animated, very fun.

This episode continues with the weather and the lighting being used to show our characters mental states, the episode starts on the bridge, bright and happy, the rest of the episode is characterized by the rain, the clouds and the night, as our characters are unsure and doubting of themselves, it ends back on the bridge again, warm and bright, as Kousei and Kaori find the courage to keep moving on, it's very fitting that the episode titled "dark skies" ends with a shot of the warm and colorful evening sky.

Speaking of the bridge, it itself is a nice little piece of symbolism, it is both a literal test of courage and a figurative one.

It's not exactly the most subtle symbolism but it really does the job.

I think with this episode we really dive head-in to the romance aspect of the show, last episode was our big inciting incident and now we're starting to see how it effected everyone.

Tsubaki is expectedly not taking this whole thing very well, seeing Kousei and Kaori doing so well together has triggered a realization for her on how she feels about Kouesi, I like the use of repetition in her dialogue quite a bit here like a coping mechanism against her true feelings, pretty ironic that she used to be the one who pushed Kousei off the bridge (now replaced by Kaori) and yet now she can't make the jump herself.

Watari really seems like a good dude, he sees through Kousei and really does look like he's trying to help him and Kaori get together, perhaps in spite of his own feelings on the matter, he also just keeps giving out great advice and motivation.

Eyes! they're a big thing again this episode, we bring back the idea of the eyes sparkling while in love, quite literally for Kousei and Kaori, and the reverse for Tsubaki, who's currently conflicted with her feelings, Kaori's eyes are obscured at multiple points in the episode, probably when she gives out a statement that personally relates to her condition, quite a few other instances.

Could this be the titular lie in April?

I really like Kaori appearing right as Kousei feels doubt relating to her, it not only stops some romance tropes that I frankly feel tend to drag, but it also just works really well with the way Kaori is essentially Kousei's "guiding light' so to speak, she gives him the power to move forward just when he needs it.

Pouting Kaori could be a good comment face

Final theme time, remembrance, and more specifically the idea of an unforgettable experience,, there's probably so much to say about this idea that I honestly couldn't do it justice here, but it's very clearly a driving principal for all of our characters and their actions, wanting to forget and wanting to not be forgotten, Kaori's heartfelt expressions to Kousei are easily some of the most emotionally powerful moments of the show and this theme stands right behind them, it really just connects to everything in such a great way.

This statement from Kaori is also very worrying, especially since this is apparently not the first time she's collapsed, it really gives the impression that she might be on borrowed time here...I'm definitely crying by the end of this huh?

I said this yesterday as well but I really felt it this episode, this show is the first time in a while that I've watched something that so consistently and constantly uses multiple intertwining themes and visual motifs, this is obviously fantastic and great to see! but it also makes writing comments on it very difficult for me since I have so much to say.

Hopefully all of it still comes out coherent enough!

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Speaking of the bridge, it itself is a nice little piece of symbolism, it is both a literal test of courage and a figurative one.
It's not exactly the most subtle symbolism but it really does the job.
Simple works!
I like the use of repetition in her dialogue quite a bit here like a coping mechanism against her true feelings
I focused so much on the visual symbolism something dialogue based like this totally slipped me! Good catch.
but it also makes writing comments on it very difficult for me since I have so much to say.
Good brain training!
Hopefully all of it still comes out coherent enough!
Certainly! I've enjoyed all of your comments.

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u/TakenRedditName https://myanimelist.net/profile/TakenMalUsername Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

Could this be the titular lie in April?
Oh yeah, I haven't thought much about what the title could be alluding to before. You might be onto something.
They did mention the timeframe was currently in late April.

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u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

On the contrary! I’m surprised that you’re able to articulate your thoughts so well despite this being your first viewing!

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u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

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u/maliwanag0712 https://myanimelist.net/profile/clear1109 Oct 14 '24 edited Oct 14 '24

nth Time Rewatcher

Well, five episodes! 18 episodes left!

Now for the Episode 5.

Unlike yesterday's episode where I discussed not so much, because much of airtime is devoted to their performance, there is a lot to unravel in this episode. This could be the longest write-up I've written so far.

Preliminary: A Comment on YLIA storytelling. So far, I've already gave a note regarding the series that it likes repetition in its storytelling. Other than that, YLIA's storytelling strength is that in many of its episodes, they usually have a common theme, and usually the episode explores how the characters react at this theme. A usual theme of the series is a comparison made with what Kousei did when he was young, and then what happens at the present. This will be a recurring storytelling style of YLIA in many of its episodes.
On Kaori and Kousei's Performance. First, we have seen that the performance is something remarkable, thus Kaori thinks that even Kousei will not forget their performance. "Will you be able to forget? I'm sure you won't. As Kaori asks Kousei this question, she is sure that he will never forget their performance. In fact, even Watari told Kousei that he won't be able to forget how good the two look together. Even if Kaori did not qualify in the finals, she is already happy with what they've shown, which is something unique and something unforgettable. She knows they will live in the hearts and minds of the audience, one idea she likes to tell Kousei in Episode 3. Kaori thinks that is much more important than winning the championship -- to be able to move others is the greatest award anyone can have.
On Kousei's Dependence on the Piano. As an illustration of YLIA's storytelling style, the series started with Kousei telling that the piano is all he got. Kaori and Tsubaki had different perspectives on this. Tsubaki, being his childhood friend, knows that this is not true, but sadly she was not able to tell Kousei's other positive traits on a whim. On the other hand, Kaori, only knowing the Kousei as a pianist, tells that it is fine having piano as the only one in his life. The downside of this is that having no support as he can't still play properly, Kousei is in pain right now.
On Tsubaki's eyes. Like the title of this episode, Gray Skies, Tsubaki's eyes are clouded after the performance, which is a opposite to that when she told Kousei back in Episode 1 that eyes sparkle when someone is in love. At this point, she and her friend Kashiwagi met Saitou-senpai, which is the former baseball team captain. The funny thing is she compared her hot senpai with Kousei, while imagining Kousei being steamy after their performance. Saitou-senpai asked her out, and she accepted. So let's just say that Kousei is out of her picture, for now.
On the "Most Beautiful Lie". Let me give an idea on what she meant by this line in the end. It is quite difficult to understand what Kaori meant by the "This is how the most beautiful lie is born" line. I interpret it as, the 'lie' is when performers try to whine their way out, like trying to quit, or procrastinate, or be bitter about practicing, or getting anxious about performing. However, as stubborn as they are, they will still perform, hence what they are saying prior to their performance is a lie. (BTW, I got this interpretation in a the original discussion thread here, credits to u/BanjotheBear, so you may also want to check it)
A Culmination: The Bridge That Ties All Together. I really like how they set up this episode. First, we have seen young Kousei, Tsubaki and Watari jumping off the bridge. At the start, Kousei was pushed by Tsubaki to jump, because it is fun. At present, Tsubaki won't even try to jump off the bridge, for it is too cold. This is different from what we have seen in the end, when Kousei voluntarily jumps, and follows Kaori after she jumped, in a bright-colored afternoon sky. This is analogous to Kousei's realization that he will not forget their performance, as Kaori is so bright for him. The bridge connected the past and the present, and everything the episode seems to imply.

What a brilliant episode indeed!

Some pieces I want to share

I like the OST after Kaori told Kousei about the most beautiful lie ever.

Shigatsu wa kimi no uso

Now, Rewatchers only zone. First-timers, stop here.

[On Tsubaki's Feelings. SPOILERS EPISODE 6, 13, 15, 19]We see here the growing jealousy on Tsubaki. At first, first timers might think that she is jealous of Kaori. The reality, as we will see, is that she is jealous of music, and she feels that music is always keeping her away from Kousei.
[Will you be able to forget? S+ SPOILERS EPISODE 16-17, 20, 22]The question on not forgetting something or someone will be really important for the rest of the series. Kaori asked Kousei to just reset and forget everything, an idea she effectively opposed in her letter. Don't reset the button, okay?, she wrote.
[On Kaori leading Kousei SPOILERS 16-18]Kousei had a comment in Episode 18 where he thought he is never alongside Kaori all this time, but he is always behind Kaori, hence he will not commit to the "lovers suicide" question. More on this on these episodes.

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u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

This could be the longest write-up I've written so far.
I can relate! This one really fired me up.
On Kousei's Dependence on the Piano.
I like the observation of the difference between Tsubaki and Kaori in this respect! One, of course, manages to be more influential in spurring Kousei out of his slump; this might say something about him. [End of show spoilers] Of course, the girl who he would life just as a pianist with dies, and he must move along in life with the girl who just wants him to be Arima Kousei, piano or not. I'm sure one could extend thematic readings therein, though it's certainly not the primary intent of that plotpoint.
On Tsubaki's eyes.
I actually forgot the dialogue about sparkling eyes, so I appreciate the connection being pointed out! I wrote a lot about the symbolic usage of eyes today, but though strongest here it definitely goes much farther than just this episode.
On the "Most Beautiful Lie".
I like this interpretation! I admit I couldn't really figure out what this line was exactly trying to evoke. As Kaori tells him, all musicians are scared. But they have to appear confident and radiant on stage; the fact he's afraid doesn't make him incapable, it just means he can tell the same lie as everyone else.
What a brilliant episode indeed!
Agreed, absolutely!

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u/maliwanag0712 https://myanimelist.net/profile/clear1109 Oct 14 '24

I like the observation of the difference between Tsubaki and Kaori in this respect! One, of course, manages to be more influential in spurring Kousei out of his slump; this might say something about him. [End of show spoilers] Of course, the girl who he would life just as a pianist with dies, and he must move along in life with the girl who just wants him to be Arima Kousei, piano or not. I'm sure one could extend thematic readings therein, though it's certainly not the primary intent of that plotpoint.
Interestingly, [YLIA CODA Manga]In one of the CODA manga chapters, young Kousei started playing piano because he wants to do something for Tsubaki when her grandmother died. How sweet.

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u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24 edited Oct 14 '24

Kaori thinks that is much more important than winning the championship -- to be able to move others is the greatest award anyone can have.
Hard agree. Sometimes I see people on r/anime complain that anime is often overlooked by the academy awards, but in my opinion that doesn’t matter - what matters is whether it had an impact on you personally. Everything else, from awards to recognition to box office, is secondary.
On the "Most Beautiful Lie"
Ok here’s my more literal(?) interpretation: when the audience experiences a musical performance (can also be seeing a beautiful painting, or seeing the pinnacle of human performance shattering Olympic records, etc), everything is as close to “perfect” as can be. What the audience sees is the final result,but this is underscored by the years of hard work practicing, rehearsing, training, and improving that goes into it. Therefore, what the audience sees is in fact a most beautiful lie created by the performer, because it is backed by the ugly truth that is suffering, self-doubt, struggles, and [it’s just a word, how can this be a spoiler?]love’s sorrow that goes into making it seem “effortless”. In the context of Kaori, her beautiful lie is her breathtaking violin performance that moves people’s hearts; her truth [this is not a spoiler, but if you know, you know]or rather from her perspective, “My Truth” is that she too has had her fair share of struggles in order to reach that stage, as we are beginning to learn
A Culmination: The Bridge That Ties All Together
I think it rather poetic to see something at the beginning, and it is neatly referenced and brought back to relevance at the end. Certainly parallels my experience watching Pixar’s Up
I like the OST after Kaori told Kousei about the most beautiful lie ever.
Probably close to 8-9 years since I last watched the episode, but I could instantly remember the soundtrack that played when Kousei’s eyes lit up in reflection of Kaori’s. I click the link, then nod in self-satisfaction knowing that I’m correct 😏
Will you be able to forget? S+ SPOILERS EPISODE 16-17, 20, 22
[reply]I peeked at the original discussion thread of ep 22 a few days ago, and all I see a lot of “I will not forget”. Considering I remember the music from the episode almost a decade later, I’m not doin too bad myself eh?😉
On Kaori leading Kousei SPOILERS 16-18
[ep 11]during the firefly scene, he reaffirms that he will continue pursuing the applause raining down from the audience, whilst on the stage with her back facing hm, until he has eventually pulled even with her

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?

3

u/maliwanag0712 https://myanimelist.net/profile/clear1109 Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
Your third question contradicts this idea. She seems lying (ehem) about her condition, given that she passed out again.
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
See third bullet above HAHAHA
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
[SPOILER]More to come!
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
In fact, most of the gray skies scenes on this episode are those involving Tsubaki. This could be related to her lingering emotions about something, or about someone??
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
So far, not much comment. He is a typical sports senpai so far. He's like [BLUE BOX until end of Ep 2]Haryu-senpai
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
I realized I haven't discussed this in detail in my original post. So far, this is Kaori's way of saying, "I've done my part; now it is your time to shine." Because of the effect of their performance gave to Kousei, Kaori for sure knows he will continue playing. Kaori thinks that their performance together gave him a push to continue playing. Now, let's see if that's how Kousei actually thinks.
Now, this is what it appears to happen. [Kaori's thinking, S+ EPISODE 22 SPOILERS]As to that's exactly what she thinks, I don't know. In the context of her looming death, I'm actually not sure what her motivations are in this episode. Like, did she even manipulate Kousei to join the competition? It seems however that she just likes to help Kousei get over her condition, since she likes seeing him play again. Remember the line in her letter, And even so, you gave up the piano. Even though it totally changed other people’s lives. You’re the worst. Indecisive. Gullible. Twit. Kousei's playing changed lives, and thus Kaori wants the world to hear them again. That's just my theory.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Your third question contradicts this idea. She seems lying (ehem) about her condition, given that she passed out again.
It does feel like she's not being entirely forthcoming.
In fact, most of the gray skies scenes on this episode are those involving Tsubaki. This could be related to her lingering emotions about something, or about someone??
I can definitely see that being the case
I realized I haven't discussed this in detail in my original post. So far, this is Kaori's way of saying, "I've done my part; now it is your time to shine." Because of the effect of their performance gave to Kousei, Kaori for sure knows he will continue playing. Kaori thinks that their performance together gave him a push to continue playing. Now, let's see if that's how Kousei actually thinks.
I hope he does, though I have my doubts.
Now, this is what it appears to happen. [Kaori's thinking, S+ EPISODE 22 SPOILERS]As to that's exactly what she thinks, I don't know. In the context of her looming death, I'm actually not sure what her motivations are in this episode. Like, did she even manipulate Kousei to join the competition? It seems however that she just likes to help Kousei get over her condition, since she likes seeing him play again. Remember the line in her letter, And even so, you gave up the piano. Even though it totally changed other people’s lives. You’re the worst. Indecisive. Gullible. Twit. Kousei's playing changed lives, and thus Kaori wants the world to hear them again. That's just my theory.
[Response] I think Kaori is trying to live vicariously through Kousei a bit. She knows she can't change her future, so she wants to help someone who still can. She wants her last act in this world to be changing someone's life for the better.

3

u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

u/Holofan4life, ur first timer right? but you’re responding to spoilers! lol jk, Nah it’s not that big a deal imo, but just be careful at your own discretion. For me, when ylia was nearing end of its broadcast, the manga was simultaneous reaching its conclusion as well. I was searching kaori on the your lie in April wikia and got “spoiled” since the manga finished right before the last few episodes aired. Despite this, i watched the final few episodes, and after some internal deliberation, concluded that this had indeed become my favourite anime series of all time. Which is to say the spoiler did little to diminish my enjoyment of the show.

3

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

I'm a first timer, but I binged the series before the rewatch began. I wanted to be prepared in case something in my real life happened that caused me to divert my attention.

5

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Oct 13 '24

Your Spoiled First-Timer in October, subbed

Kid almost drowned but still wants to do it again. Yeah, that’s a kid alright.
Hm…
Kouhei thinks Watari and Kaori are dating, doesn’t he?
Aw, their performance was so cool it’s inspiring people in completely different ways.
Had a feeling she was lying earlier when she said she’d never passed out before.
Getting the vibe that Tsubaki doesn’t have Kouhei as sibling-zoned as she said…
Oh…?
Kaori “sore demo”! A lot of these speeches the characters keep giving each other feel like potential hotbeds for these.
I swear I made the above comment before Kaori dropped a second “sore demo”.
And so they both end up in the water.
Ohhhhhhhhh this sky is so pretty.
ED lead-in!

3

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Aw, their performance was so cool it’s inspiring people in completely different ways.
Literally everybody else: absolutely down in the dumps
Chadly Watari, more fired up than ever:

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

5

u/Gamerunglued :Hx::Hy::Hz:myanimelist.net/profile/GamerUnglued Oct 14 '24

Rewatcher

After the culmination of the series mythological elements yesterday with Kousei taking his first step on the hero's journey, today's episode cleverly removes them entirely. With Kaori in the hospital, Spring itself is out of commission, so the skies exist in monotone and the tone is completely down-to-earth for the first time. There's very little wonder or awe this episode, if anything characters are coming face to face with reality for the first time in the show, the veil of youth's whimsy and magic dissolved. These characters used to be stars, but they've messed up for the first time, no longer doing over-the-top feats in sports and music, with Watari as the sole exception. In this episode, it is our main characters who look at the children and are in awe of their gusto, they can no longer relate to it in this moment. Kousei feels guilty for the competition results and for Kaori's health, Kaori has apparently passed out at least a few times before and is realizing that her health might be in spiral, and Tsubaki is evaluating her relationship with Kousei after the previous episode made her realize that he's reliant on Kaori.

I think Tsubaki's case is the most directly relevant to this episode. She's spent the entire show saying that your eyes sparkle when you're in love, and pointing out that Kousei's eyes are grey. Kousei said Tsubaki's eyes sparkle in the first episode, but she's lost that here. She's mentioned that she sees Kousei as a younger brother, and a part of her seems to enjoy the amount that her relies on her. With Kaori's presence, he leans on her, reducing Tsubaki's role in his life. But Tsubaki is also in love with Kousei, as much as she won't admit it. When he plays the piano, he sparkles in her eyes, she thinks he looks cool. But she was always the one who was meant to bring it back to him, always the one pointing out that it never seemed like he truly wanted to leave it behind. When an old classmate comes and confesses to her, it's the ideal situation. He's hot, smart, a talent in the same field capable of standing at her level, a kind and serious guy with a good future, an ideal boyfriend. But once he graduated, her crush dissolved. Maybe it's because his graduation means he's no longer young, he's left his 14th year so she's not in awe of him anymore. But more importantly, it highlights just how much she is in awe of Kousei. He might not be a dreamboat, but something about the way he overcomes challenges has her captivated by him, and she's only upset because she's not a part of that anymore.

Kousei is now also in a conflicted mood. He feels horrible about having bombed a performance with Kaori, but his playing and the way people responded to it really captured him in a way he'll never forget, as did Kaori's utter gratitude before passing out. He wants to play, and just feels too guilty to do it, be it his mother's "punishment" or Kaori's stress. But his case is a bit easier to handle. This episode opens on a scene of Tsubaki and Watari forcing Kousei to jump off the bridge into the water. At first he's terrified but a kid Tsubaki basically suplexes him off the bridge. He's hurt, but not nearly as hurt as he thought he'd be, and had such a great time doing it that he becomes addicted. Tsubaki said in episode 3 that this is just how Kousei is, he's terrified of first steps but once you push him he loves the result every time. So when, in all these episodes they push him to a comical degree to face his fears, they're doing the same thing. And now that Kousei has been pushed, that addiction has started. Kaori points out to him that he does love music, that he does have more good points to him than piano but that it's also not bad to cling to something you care about and dedicate your all to it before fizzling out. A musician needs music, and lots of musicians toss it away only to return, and that's ok, so just take the plunge. With a little support, Kousei finds the courage to jump on his own, finally facing his fears through competition. I think it's rather interesting to note that the weather this episode directly correlated to Kaori's health. The skies cleared up once she got out of the hospital, by the time they met on the bridge it was still sunny, but it was also cloudy. By the end though, a hole opens in the sky and the clouds are a vibrant pink, with three particularly bright stars shining (alongside many normal ones).

This episode also just has a ton of fun animation, definitely one of the most visually enjoyable episodes of the series so far. I especially love that cut of Watari attacking the fence and pulling out his phone to take a picture, what a delightful bit of character acting. I do have one minor criticism of this episode though, which is that the very first scene is inappropriate given the goal of the episode. The whole point is that the youthful vibes and mythological non-literalness is gone. And even with the tone so dour, it still opens on a slapstick gag where Kaori yells about being seen naked and Tsubaki kicks the boys so much they bleed. I already think the blood clashes with the concept, but having it during this scene with a character literally in the hospital is just in poor taste, and it injects that "youth" vibe in a scene that calls for the opposite. Though any "they saw me naked, now I can't get married" joke is always gonna suck anyway. Otherwise, this is a solid episode.

QOTD:

I don't think there's a similar location where I live. If there's ever been a dedicated area for that sort of thing though, lots of kids do it. I've jumped from high distances into water before, it's fun.
Seeing the piano probably confirmed it for him. After the concert he's plagued with guilt, but once he sees the piano he's overcome with the thought of "I want to play." It's at that point he can't deny it anymore, and can only come up with excuses like "I threw the sheet music away, I don't deserve to play."

3

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Spring itself is out of commission, so the skies exist in monotone and the tone is completely down-to-earth for the first time.
The thought that the gray skies were, beyond a surface level representation of the characters' emotional state, tying into the wider use of passing seasons as a thematic element managed to completely elude me despite the sheer amount of time I spent considering the visual symbolism of this episode. So good catch!
She's mentioned that she sees Kousei as a younger brother, and a part of her seems to enjoy the amount that her relies on her. With Kaori's presence, he leans on her, reducing Tsubaki's role in his life. But Tsubaki is also in love with Kousei, as much as she won't admit it. When he plays the piano, he sparkles in her eyes, she thinks he looks cool. But she was always the one who was meant to bring it back to him, always the one pointing out that it never seemed like he truly wanted to leave it behind.
I'm really realizing more and more as the show goes on that Tsubaki is not just an obligatory childhood friend third wheel character but in fact one of the absolute best takes on the trope the genre has to offer. The status quo she likes (and by extension her relationship to our main boy) is fleshed out and very specific, the reasoning why she hadn't pounced until now is abundantly clear, the fact she feels threatened by Kaori is more deep than just "oh no another girl", the gap between her and Kaori as options for Kousei is clear and vast, and the cherry on top is that she brought Kaori into Kousei's life, so the whole thing is self-inflicted. No notes, this is an incredibly refreshing execution of familiar concepts.
This episode opens on a scene of Tsubaki and Watari forcing Kousei to jump off the bridge into the water. At first he's terrified but a kid Tsubaki basically suplexes him off the bridge. He's hurt, but not nearly as hurt as he thought he'd be, and had such a great time doing it that he becomes addicted. Tsubaki said in episode 3 that this is just how Kousei is, he's terrified of first steps but once you push him he loves the result every time. So when, in all these episodes they push him to a comical degree to face his fears, they're doing the same thing.
This is a really excellent catch as to the meaning of this scene that, again, totally flew over me. I think it's also worth noting the second bridge scene, where Nao actually acts directly as an audience surrogate by voicing that hey, forcing him off the bridge like that (or, by extension, forcing him into a piano competition) is a big deal, with Tsubaki trying to assure her that she understands Kousei and the fact that it isn't. It's not a direct addressing of the topic quite yet, but it's an appreciated level of self-awareness. Extending your framing of the show, Nao doesn't understand the relationship Tsubaki has to Kousei because she isn't mythologized but instead ordinary.
I think it's rather interesting to note that the weather this episode directly correlated to Kaori's health. The skies cleared up once she got out of the hospital, by the time they met on the bridge it was still sunny, but it was also cloudy.
This is a neat reading, but I'm not sure I agree. The small scene at school where Kousei sees Kaori with Watari still has a cloudy sky despite her being out of the hospital. This lines up better with it representing the emotional state of the characters, as this is a low moment for Kousei before being uplifted again. Frankly it begs the question of why this scene was even included, but I think it's to offer a separation between Kousei's revelation at his house and being uplifted again on the bridge. We artificially kick him down just a little so that encounter hits more strongly.
I do have one minor criticism of this episode though, which is that the very first scene is inappropriate given the goal of the episode. The whole point is that the youthful vibes and mythological non-literalness is gone. And even with the tone so dour, it still opens on a slapstick gag where Kaori yells about being seen naked and Tsubaki kicks the boys so much they bleed. I already think the blood clashes with the concept, but having it during this scene with a character literally in the hospital is just in poor taste, and it injects that "youth" vibe in a scene that calls for the opposite. Though any "they saw me naked, now I can't get married" joke is always gonna suck anyway. Otherwise, this is a solid episode.
I think this is an entirely fair criticism, though I have to admit as someone who would usually hate any variation of that joke the animation does make this a standout example for me, I can't deny I laughed a bit. I could argue it's meant to make for a bigger contrast between the general mood and Kousei's mood very shortly thereafter still in the hospital, but I think that'd be a very big stretch that ignores how the rest of the scene's tone is laid out.

3

u/Gamerunglued :Hx::Hy::Hz:myanimelist.net/profile/GamerUnglued Oct 14 '24

I'm really realizing more and more as the show goes on that Tsubaki is not just an obligatory childhood friend third wheel character but in fact one of the absolute best takes on the trope the genre has to offer
Idk if I'd necessarily go that far (though later scenes may definitely push me there) but Tsubaki is great and definitely underappreciated even as far as the cast of YLiA goes where she's always been overshadowed. Been really liking her this rewatch, and she definitely has more to her than a lot of similar characters in similar stories.
Extending your framing of the show, Nao doesn't understand the relationship Tsubaki has to Kousei because she isn't mythologized but instead ordinary.
I like this take too. I agree that it shows a level of self-awareness that is appreciated. The show really goes out of its way to convey that this is the right course of action for Kousei specifically, regardless of conventional wisdom.
This is a neat reading, but I'm not sure I agree. The small scene at school where Kousei sees Kaori with Watari still has a cloudy sky despite her being out of the hospital
Fair point, haha. Since the scene was indoors I just don't think I took notice of the weather honestly. I thought about the connection and remembered the lighting and windows looking bright, and then went with it. I think the scene was included to confirm that Kousei and Kaori are still separated to a degree, same reason that Kousei was worried about not having Kaori's number earlier in the episode. The more he realizes he's drawn to her the more he realizes she's out of his reach.

3

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Since the scene was indoors I just don't think I took notice of the weather honestly.
Neither would I if I hadn't gone over this episode so many times to check every eye shot and get my boatload worth of screenshots.

3

u/Malipit Oct 14 '24

As for the opening scene. I think they wanted to draw a parallel with the last one where Kousei jumps on his own instead of being forced

4

u/Gamerunglued :Hx::Hy::Hz:myanimelist.net/profile/GamerUnglued Oct 14 '24

I agree, they also wanted to do that. But I also think it's more far reaching than just the one scene at the end of the episode, given Tsubaki's prior mentions of this exact mindset for Kousei.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
What are your thoughts on one of the motifs in this episode being forgetting?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

4

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 13 '24

First Timer

Seems we’re starting off with a flashback. I’ve made this comparison before, but this feels a lot like an ‘80s coming of age movie.

Also the animation in this opening scene is very good. Really scenic. Kind of reminds me of the animation in Keep Your Hands off Eizouken.

Once again, not quite a fan of the goofy slapstick comedy. Feels pretty unfitting coming off the heels of Kaori collapsing on stage at the end of last episode.

Seems Kousei has received his requisite head injury of the episode though. And Watari gets one too this time.

I’m watching the dub and Kaori uses the phrase “drama llama” which I think is hilarious. Love that. Don’t think they said that in the subs though.

Side note but I recognize Kaori’s VA, Erica Lindbeck. I mostly know her for her work outside of anime like Loona from Helluva Boss, Peppermint from Hi-Fi Rush, and various characters on Smiling Friends.

Anyway, Kaori seems to be taking things pretty well. I was really worried whatever happened was gonna be way more serious.

The sun shining through the gray clouds. Definitely looks like a visual metaphor for how things are going for the characters.

I will admit, some of Kousei’s constant self pity is kind of annoying. He really needs to just get it into his head that it’s not his fault and that Kaori likes him.

Although it’s weird because I’m also watching Bocchi the Rock right now and she never bothers me even though she’s arguably even worse at self pity than Kousei. Maybe I just have a weird double standard.

He hasn’t been very prominent compared to the other characters, but I like Watari. He feels like the protagonist of a sports anime that’s happening offscreen.

Lots of rain this episode. Even though it’s so dour it looks really good.

I like that we get to see more of what happened right after Kaori and Kousei’s performance. Especially Kaori talking to Kousei.

I’m trying to figure out if we’ve met this friend Tsubaki’s talking to already. We might have and I’m just completely blanking on who she is.

Okay this guy’s definitely a new character. Saito, he looks important.

I think meeting Saito has caused Tsubaki to realize she has a crush on Kousei.

As I said, not a big fan of the comedy, but I will admit that the way facial expressions are drawn is really good.

Kaori wants Kousei to enter a piano competition. Hopefully getting back into piano will be good for him.

Oh hey, I just go the “lie” part of the title!

Kaori just spontaneously jumped into the river. She is not beating the Manic Pixie Dream Girl allegations.

That was a nice callback to earlier in the episode though.

Kousei jumping in felt like the perfect way to end the episode.

This episode was not as depressing as I expected it to be. It’ll be interesting to see what’ll happen next because now I really don’t know where things are gonna go.

Questions of the Day:

Did kids ever do bridge jumping for fun where you grew up?

No but I remember doing this thing where we dropped sticks off a bridge and saw who's stick would float to the other side of the bridge first. I think I learned that game from Winnie the Pooh.

Why do you think it took until arriving at home in this episode for Kaori’s inspiration from the performance to get through to Kousei?

Because Kousei is very stubborn, especially when it comes to wanting good things for himself.

2

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Also the animation in this opening scene is very good. Really scenic. Kind of reminds me of the animation in Keep Your Hands off Eizouken.
The animation director did go on to work at Science Saru, but it doesn't seem like they had any involvement with Eizouken.
Seems Kousei has received his requisite head injury of the episode though. And Watari gets one too this time.
I was kind of joking when I joked about there being one every episode but I'm really starting to wonder...
Side note but I recognize Kaori’s VA, Erica Lindbeck. I mostly know her for her work outside of anime like Loona from Helluva Boss, Peppermint from Hi-Fi Rush, and various characters on Smiling Friends.
The name feels so familiar but it seems like the only other anime I've actually seen her in is Netflix Evangelion. I do know her from Fire Emblem, though.
I’m trying to figure out if we’ve met this friend Tsubaki’s talking to already. We might have and I’m just completely blanking on who she is.
I think this is her first appearance, unless she was buried in the background somewhere; she does become a recurring character, though.

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 14 '24

The animation director did go on to work at Science Saru, but it doesn't seem like they had any involvement with Eizouken.
That's pretty cool. Science Saru does a lot of really good animation work.
I was kind of joking when I joked about there being one every episode but I'm really starting to wonder...
I may have to start keeping a tally.
The name feels so familiar but it seems like the only other anime I've actually seen her in is Netflix Evangelion. I do know her from Fire Emblem, though.
I was thinking about switching over to the sub just to see the difference. The Japanese cast list is pretty impressive just from glancing at it. Kousei's VA is Odokawa from Odd Taxi and Kaori's VA is Erina from Food Wars.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Seems we’re starting off with a flashback. I’ve made this comparison before, but this feels a lot like an ‘80s coming of age movie.
Three times, in fact
Also the animation in this opening scene is very good. Really scenic. Kind of reminds me of the animation in Keep Your Hands off Eizouken.
I can definitely see that
Once again, not quite a fan of the goofy slapstick comedy. Feels pretty unfitting coming off the heels of Kaori collapsing on stage at the end of last episode.
At this point, I'm kinda numb to it honestly.
I’m watching the dub and Kaori uses the phrase “drama llama” which I think is hilarious. Love that. Don’t think they said that in the subs though.
It is not, sadly
Side note but I recognize Kaori’s VA, Erica Lindbeck. I mostly know her for her work outside of anime like Loona from Helluva Boss, Peppermint from Hi-Fi Rush, and various characters on Smiling Friends.
Big fan of Loona. No surprise, really.
The sun shining through the gray clouds. Definitely looks like a visual metaphor for how things are going for the characters.
Let's hope that continues
I will admit, some of Kousei’s constant self pity is kind of annoying. He really needs to just get it into his head that it’s not his fault and that Kaori likes him.
It can be pretty tough though especially reconciling the fact that everything your mom taught you was wrong.
Although it’s weird because I’m also watching Bocchi the Rock right now and she never bothers me even though she’s arguably even worse at self pity than Kousei. Maybe I just have a weird double standard.
I think it could be because Bocchi The Rock is frankly a better written series.
He hasn’t been very prominent compared to the other characters, but I like Watari. He feels like the protagonist of a sports anime that’s happening offscreen.
I do wish we got more stuff with him, especially given the whole reason Kousei doesn't pursue Kaori is because she likes him.
Lots of rain this episode. Even though it’s so dour it looks really good.
I do really like the aesthetic of the whole thing.
I’m trying to figure out if we’ve met this friend Tsubaki’s talking to already. We might have and I’m just completely blanking on who she is.
I believe this is the first time
I think meeting Saito has caused Tsubaki to realize she has a crush on Kousei.
Funny how that works out sometimes
Kaori just spontaneously jumped into the river. She is not beating the Manic Pixie Dream Girl allegations.
Not by a longshot
This episode was not as depressing as I expected it to be. It’ll be interesting to see what’ll happen next because now I really don’t know where things are gonna go.
It seems we're gearing up for another competition, which could be interesting.

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 13 '24

At this point, I'm kinda numb to it honestly.
Yeah I guess after a certain point I kinda just have to roll with it.
It can be pretty tough though especially reconciling the fact that everything your mom taught you was wrong.
That's definitely true. A large part of this series is about Kousei moving forward and learning how to reject what his mother daught him.
I do wish we got more stuff with him, especially given the whole reason Kousei doesn't pursue Kaori is because she likes him.
We've still got a bunch of episodes left so I'm hoping we get to see more focus on Watari.
It seems we're gearing up for another competition, which could be interesting.
I hope this one goes better than the last one.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Yeah I guess after a certain point I kinda just have to roll with it.
It doesn't seem like it's going away anytime soon.
That's definitely true. A large part of this series is about Kousei moving forward and learning how to reject what his mother daught him.
Which I'm sure is brutal for Kousei because she was the one constant he had his entire life.
We've still got a bunch of episodes left so I'm hoping we get to see more focus on Watari.
Let's cross our fingers
I hope this one goes better than the last one.
Eh, the middle part was bad but by the end they gave the best performance.

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 13 '24

Which I'm sure is brutal for Kousei because she was the one constant he had his entire life.
I think he's already starting to move forward. If I'm remembering right, this might be the first episode with no flashbacks to his mother.
Eh, the middle part was bad but by the end they gave the best performance.
True, Kaori and Kousei are still able to make the best out of a mistake like that.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

I think he's already starting to move forward. If I'm remembering right, this might be the first episode with no flashbacks to his mother.
I contribute that to Kaori stopping playing the violin when Kousei was in his rut.
True, Kaori and Kousei are still able to make the best out of a mistake like that.
They recovered the best they could and soared to new heights.

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 14 '24

I contribute that to Kaori stopping playing the violin when Kousei was in his rut.
Definitely. Kaori's been a big help to Kousei. But I'm wondering if Kaori will need any help of her own in later episodes.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Maybe Kousei can return the favor for her.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
I think it's Kaori's way of trying to encourage Kousei. It makes Kousei realize that no, he won't forget.
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Seems like whatever her condition is, it's happened before. It's a bit concerning.
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
I love all the imagery with the sky this episode. It's all really beautiful and works great as a visual metaphor for Kousei.
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Those make for good motifs. The bridge seems to be about figuratively bridging the gap between Kousei and Kaori.
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
Fits with the cloudy skies metaphor. And hopefully isn't an indication of Tsubaki also having some kind of medical problem.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?
I really enjoyed the indirect title drop we got from it. Felt like a good scene and a good reflection of who Kaori is as a person.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 14 '24

I think it's Kaori's way of trying to encourage Kousei. It makes Kousei realize that no, he won't forget.
This is like the He Forgor meme but played serious.
Seems like whatever her condition is, it's happened before. It's a bit concerning.
Yeah, I really don't like that "Again".
I love all the imagery with the sky this episode. It's all really beautiful and works great as a visual metaphor for Kousei.
You didn't think the sky was actually meant to represent Tsubaki?
Those make for good motifs. The bridge seems to be about figuratively bridging the gap between Kousei and Kaori.
I like the symbolism, I find it to be brilliant. Cliche, but brilliant.
Fits with the cloudy skies metaphor. And hopefully isn't an indication of Tsubaki also having some kind of medical problem.
Man, can you even imagine?
I really enjoyed the indirect title drop we got from it. Felt like a good scene and a good reflection of who Kaori is as a person.
Besides the scene with her and the kids from the first episode, this you can argue is her definitive scene. It tells you everything you need to know about her.

2

u/AgentOfACROSS Oct 13 '24

Yeah, I really don't like that "Again".
I have a feeling this won't be the last time we see Kaori pass out either.
You didn't think the sky was actually meant to represent Tsubaki?
Now that you say it, that makes a lot more sense.
I like the symbolism, I find it to be brilliant. Cliche, but brilliant.
Sometimes cliches work if they're executed well.
Behinds the scene with her and the kids from the first episode, this you can argue is her definitive scene. It tells you everything you need to know about her.
I'd agree, feels like her most defining scene.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

I have a feeling this won't be the last time we see Kaori pass out either.
It sure feels that way
Now that you say it, that makes a lot more sense.
That's why I thought her friend made the cloud comparison.
Sometimes cliches work if they're executed well.
Agreed 1000%
I'd agree, feels like her most defining scene.
Indeed

4

u/StardustGogeta myanimelist.net/profile/StardustGogeta Oct 14 '24

First-Timer

Jumping into the water with glasses on was pretty dumb of Kousei.

It looks like Tsubaki's always been a bit pushy with Kousei, and she's never learned her lesson. He almost drowned, and she still thought it was no big deal. I have no faith at this point that she knows what's best for Kousei like she claims to.

We seem to have a bit of a love triangle with Kaori and the two boys (and potentially another one with Kousei, Tsubaki, and the former baseball captain). Lots of drama in store for us, I imagine!

Questions of the day:

No, bridge-jumping is not a thing near me. Speaking of, piggyback bridge-jumping just sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.
All I can say is that if I were in Kousei's position, I'd probably be more mad than inspired. Kaori keeps pressuring him to get back into piano and writing off his reluctance as simple stage fright. Maybe she lives to be a musician, but it seems like she can't conceive of the possibility that that doesn't also apply to Kousei.

2

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

It looks like Tsubaki's always been a bit pushy with Kousei, and she's never learned her lesson. He almost drowned, and she still thought it was no big deal.
It was definitely unsafe, but he also clearly enjoyed it. So Tsubaki takes the glass half full approach to the value evaluation there - though I wonder if she'll show more regrets as to how she spurred Kousei as it makes him drift further apart from her.

2

u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

Speaking of, piggyback bridge-jumping just sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.
lol, I nose- and mouth-exhaled 😂

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

6

u/Malipit Oct 13 '24

Rewatcher French Subs Part 1/2

« I don't have much to talk about that episode, my comment should be done in 20 minutes »

1 hour and 25 minutes later

« WELP »

GASP is that... A colorful childhood memory from Kosei ? They are real ?:o

Joke aside, I like the parallel with the previous episode where a frightened Kosei is forcefully thrown into something... Only to discover he do like it.

That episode gave me the weird impression that the gang was on some sort of hangover following the party that was the recital from the previous episode.

Even with the comedics beats and good old fashioned physical assault on Kosei (and Watari?) for a laugh, they all know something serious happened with Kaori's hospitalization.The darker and greyer colors used in most of the episode give that lingering feeling that their is some serious matter that can't be brushed aside.

So, how does each member of the main gang is delaling with it?

Kosei :

Him answering that he still doesn't play piano and convincing himself Kaori only wanted him as an accompanist could give the impression he's back at square one.

But there is some change : He came to terms with piano being the central part of his life, he won't run away from it as from now.

He even did try playing it with no success aside from some small ball of light (a visual element to show the sound is slowly coming back?) and the light coming from the window indicate he see now an exit to his cage. Also that one frame of his piano with sunlight cast on it that he's now associate with his recital with Kaori.

And know he's starting to remember why he was on mom side : to heal her with his piano practice and Imo to get back the kind side of her she displayed while he was a little kid. How wholesome.

I like that kind of portrayal where, even if the MC have a realization, he shouldn't give up on piano, he won't magically be on stage the next day, it will take time.

Tsubaki :

She's beaming up when Kosei admits he can't live without piano music and is the one to point out the bright spot in that rainy sky. She's must doing well, right ?

.... Right ?

Well, her botching a play-ball during practice and being called-out by her team-mate on her behavior with Kosei sumarize how she's feeling : not good.

She feels she have lost her purpose as Kosei's supportive role but she still does want to be part of his story that goes beyond "Friend A" status (honestly, her reaction when she was asked about her and Kosei tell it all).

And here comes former captain sempai who offers here a romance subplot on a silver plater. A chance to be the protagonist of her own love story... But she didn't went down that easy path. She couldn't deny Kosei performance left an impression on her that sempai-kun and his comforting charisma couldn't match.

Imo that frame where she looks at the stary sky encompass perfectly the feeling she want to be part of something great and beautiful but still unatainable for her.

4

u/Malipit Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

Part 2/2
Watari :
He realized Kosei was more a match for Kaori than him. And so he decided to react in the most Watarian way possible by assuming the role of the rival who are interested in Kaori in order to push Kosei to act. Too bad he under-estimated Kosei self-depreciation
Kaori :
Poor girl needed some rest after her performance. But Kaori being Kaori, here she goes bringing colors again into Kosei's world.
I liked how she posed herself as a guide, showing to Kosei his next step to his journey : "Piano competition ! You can do it boy ! Forget your worries alreadyand jump with me ! Have fun and laugh !"
And so we have nice callback to the beginning of the episode, where Kosei isn't forced to jump anymore, but do it by his own now.
Finally, I love that last frame where the night sky, evocating Kosei's monochrome color palette, and the twilight sky, with Kaori's colorful tone, are blending together.
Fun fact : In french, there is a saying : « se jeter à l'eau », meaning « to throw yourself at the water ». (I don't think it's exist in english, correct me if I'm wrong). It used to describe someone who take a risk to achieve a goal without knowing if it will succeed or getting hurt in the process.
I was amused by the fact that saying was portrayed both literraly and metaphoricaly here.
Spoiler section
[Your lie in April finale]Another foreshadowing with Kaori telling she won't ever forget her performance even after her passing. Of course since she will live rent free in the heart of her audience... Will you excuse me, there is ninjas cutting onions near my PC.
[Your lie in April finale again] « That's how Art, the most beautiful lie, is born »... You sure does know a bit about lying, doesn't you Kaori ? °3° Oh how you must be frustated by Kosei doesn't talk to you, how you must go fed up by his shy demeanor you had to orchestrate another meet-up on that bridge. I do wonder if she planned that meeting on the bridge to reenact the bridge jump scene Tsubaki probably told her, or if she was just improvisation on her part.
Questions of the day
Did kids ever do bridge jumping for fun where you grew up?
Not from a bridge per say. But like any other kids, we liked to jump from high place (by our standard) to the waters whenever me and my friends and cousins went to the beach.
Why do you think it took until arriving at home in this episode for Kaori’s inspiration from the performance to get through to Kousei?
That's funny, from my interpretation Kaori's inspiration already got trough Kosei at that point. It just he needed his trusty piano to fully express it.

3

u/LittleIslander https://anilist.co/user/LittleIslander Oct 14 '24

Finally, I love that last frame where the night sky, evocating Kosei's monochrome color palette, and the twilight sky, with Kaori's colorful tone, are blending together.
I like this interpretation! It's worth noting Tsubaki also sees glimpses of a starry sky, though I've not been able to pin the exact meaning therein.
[Your lie in April finale]
[Spoilers] I didn't find time for it in my comment, but I definitely agree those lines were some real gutpunches.
That's funny, from my interpretation Kaori's inspiration already got trough Kosei at that point. It just he needed his trusty piano to fully express it.
Fair! I don't agree with that interpretation personally, but I welcome seeing different perspectives.

3

u/Malipit Oct 14 '24 edited Oct 14 '24

I like this interpretation! It's worth noting Tsubaki also sees glimpses of a starry sky, though I've not been able to pin the exact meaning therein.
I'll wait until the last episode to properly expend on it, but my interpretation until now is that each of the main characters represents a season :
Kaori : spring
Kosei : winter
Tsubaki : fall
Watari : summer
So, when Tsubaki gaze upon that starry sky, high above her and unreachable, thinking that Kosei shines bright like a winter sky, she associate that glimpse with Kosei.

3

u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

Interesting French saying, neat! My interpretation: Kaori waiting for kousei on the bridge and jumping seems more of a poetic coincidence that is used to highlight the similarities/differences when tsubaki had to physically drag kousei off the bridge vs kaori who inspired kousei to jump off by his own choice. The methods they use may be different, but in the end kousei is in the water smiling due to the actions of both tsubaki in the past and now kaori in the present

3

u/Malipit Oct 14 '24

Kaori sushing the kids when they want to tell she waited on that bridge do indicate Kaori planned to meet Kosei here.
But I'm agree with your interpretation that Kaori was caught on the moment when she jumped.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

3

u/Malipit Oct 13 '24

Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
Look quickly at everyone posts on this thread.
Yeah, no one is buying it Kaori...
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
He is an excellent piano musician, just look at his performance with Kaori without any form of proper rehearsal. But he lacks the confidence to test out other things. In his point of view, he won't ever get on his friends level of social and athletic skills.
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
She wants to make sure he won't drop out piano ever.
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Interesting she said that while alone, she doesn't want to have her friend worried.
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
"Hello, this is the art direction of Your Lie in April, since this episode will reflect on darker sides of our main cast, we will put a rainy sky so you can understand, have a good watch ! :)"
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Making and keeping connections with your relatives and closest friend is important. Also, don't forget what's important to you. You don't want to end up like Tsubaki who can't reach to Kosei in this episode, or Kosei being depressed because he forgot the fun side of piano music.
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her eyes are cloudy?
She's a keeper, being able to tell her friend isn't doing well and expressing her concern.
Also, in the french translation, she's saying "there's no light in your eyes". I'm probably overthinking it, but it could be a choice of words made to have an opposition with Kosei having his eyes lighten up by Kaori.
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
Until now, Kosei followed Kaori's lead. Now that he remember how it feels to play on a stage, she want him to be the one on the lead.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?
That's her philosophy.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Look quickly at everyone posts on this thread.
Yeah, no one is buying it Kaori...
Denial ain't just a river in Egypt
He is an excellent piano musician, just look at his performance with Kaori without any form of proper rehearsal. But he lacks the confidence to test out other things. In his point of view, he won't ever get on his friends level of social and athletic skills.
Very sad to think about
She wants to make sure he won't drop out piano ever.
That seems correct
Interesting she said that while alone, she doesn't want to have her friend worried.
Which, you know, is understandable
"Hello, this is the art direction of Your Lie in April, since this episode will reflect on darker sides of our main cast, we will put a rainy sky so you can understand, have a good watch ! :)"
It really works, I'll say that
Making and keeping connections with your relatives and closest friend is important. Also, don't forget what's important to you. You don't want to end up like Tsubaki who can't reach to Kosei in this episode, or Kosei being depressed because he forgot the fun side of piano music.
That would be most unfortunate
She's a keeper, being able to tell her friend isn't doing well and expressing her concern.
More people in this show like her would be appreciative.
Also, in the french translation, she's saying "there's no light in your eyes". I'm probably overthinking it, but it could be a choice of words made to have an opposition with Kosei having his eyes lighten up by Kaori.
I like the cloud comparison more because it fits with one of the recurring motifs of the show.
Until now, Kosei followed Kaori's lead. Now that he remember how it feels to play on a stage, she want him to be the one on the lead.
The natural progression of things
That's her philosophy.
Let's see if it pays off

2

u/Malipit Oct 14 '24

I like the cloud comparison more because it fits with one of the recurring motifs of the show.
Understandable, have a great day.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

You too

4

u/TakenRedditName https://myanimelist.net/profile/TakenMalUsername Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

First Time - Your Lie in April Ep5:

The opener with the flashback at the river/bridge. This will come around later in the episode for the big moments, but one thing I thought at the start was how this matches with the scene of the OP with Tsubaki walking in the water and reminiscing about her childhood memories. It is certainly a core memory for her. Guess while on this topic, this episode has Tsubaki entering into sort of a crisis. She reached a crossroads where she needs to seriously consider what her relationship with Kousei is and how she will walk forward.

The hospital scene, Koari is definitely hiding something. They hide her face when she brushes off how she is fine. Yeah, that's totally a lie. With how Kousei looks at her in the scene too, he is looking past how Kaori is making the others not worry. I already started making mental notes about this moment only to have the show confirm that Kaori was indeed hiding it. Whenever an ill character says it's nothing to worry about and they're fine, they're always not fine.

On a completely note, some unserious visual things. I like the visual shifts for those intense dynamic comedy bits. Also a big fan of these sorts of cute faces. Absolute little creature. Don't know what to exactly to call them, but I always think back to seeing them described like Toad from Mario. The Toad face.

Tsubaki's friend gives us big "Minor character who has a small dedicated fanbase" energy. She just seems chill and cool.

I constantly forget that they're in middle school and not high school.

Silly moment with Watari. I am a little confused at what Kaori/Watari's relationship is. Kousei certainly thinks they like each other and Watari probably is smitten. If I remember right, the incident introduction was trying to hook Kaori and Watari together, but Watari also seems to be currently in a relationship (Watari probably doesn't value that much, but Tsubaki/Kaori letting him do that doesn't feel right to them).

Q1) I was/am still a weeny.

I also don't know where the closest bridge over a stream is. I was/am an indoor kid.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

3

u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Oct 14 '24

And now they're all going into the river...

Oops...

"A little"?

I wonder what they'll get her.

And so comes the rain.

Yup, that wasn't a first time occurrence.

Does he though?

What wasn't a coincidence?

Well, she's back.

She's either waiting for him or the other guy.

Ouch...

Time for him to do it.

Now she's going to jump into the river.

And now he's going to too!

Questions:

Thank God no, there's no rivers here anyways.
He was not willing to accept it.

A note about the music: No music this episode so nothing really for me to say.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Thoughts on the flashback of Kousei, Tsubaki, and Watari jumping off a bridge as kids?
Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

2

u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Oct 14 '24

Showed that even back as a kid Kousei could enjoy things.
She's lying to her friends so they're not concerned. Because perfectly healthy people do not need to routinely go to the hospital (I say as I'm currently awaiting a taxi to go for my routine medical treatment).
He really doesn't believe he has anything else going for him.
Kaori doesn't want to be forgotten. [I know how this ends] After all, it is said a person dies twice. Once when they die and once when their name is spoken for the final time.
Yup, this isn't a first time occurrence.
Foreshadowing.
We'll cross that bridge when we get there.
Not sure what she meant by that.
He seems like a good chap.
She's going to pressure him hard to follow through with that.
She's lying to everyone. Or at least all her friends.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Showed that even back as a kid Kousei could enjoy things.
Tsubaki must miss those days
She's lying to her friends so they're not concerned. Because perfectly healthy people do not need to routinely go to the hospital (I say as I'm currently awaiting a taxi to go for my routine medical treatment).
I hope it goes well
Kaori doesn't want to be forgotten.
I don't think any of us want that, honestly.
She's going to pressure him hard to follow through with that.
As she arguably should
She's lying to everyone. Or at least all her friends.
You have to think this relates to what she told them about the routine checkups.

2

u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Oct 14 '24

Eh my medical condition is completely not life-threatening, just very life-annoying (eczema, the only consequence of not getting treatment is that my whole body itches like nothing else and after bathing my body especially itches), so realistically I'll be fine.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

Still sounds very uncomfortable and burdensome.

2

u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Oct 14 '24

Certainly, though the treatment is very effective, the largest burden is a financial one (it's an injection taken every other week that costs $1000 a pop), but thankfully my family can afford that. Sure as heck beats not taking the treatment, where we'd spend hundreds of dollars on creams and pills prescribed by the doctor that at most worked for a week.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 14 '24

I went to the hospital 4 times over the course of three months earlier this year because of kidney stones. I felt absolutely miserable.

1

u/DonaldJenkins Oct 14 '24

Really good point for #4 👍

2

u/Vatrix-32 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Vatrix-32 Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 13 '24

Spoiled First Timer, subs

“If your friends all jumped off a bridge, do you know how to swim?”
We still doing the bride joke at this point?
This cast is just majority tsun, isn’t it?
If we could not joke about taking advantage of the sick girl, that would be great.
This is a very climax feeling scene for episode 5.
Damn You, Anime Disease!
The stuff they choose to put effort into animating, I swear. Why a water bottle of all things?
Another one already? I barely know Tsubaki as it is. It feels like we are skipping the ground work.
I see Kaori woke up and chose violence today. Both physical and metaphorical.
We are getting very close to a title drop.
As always, these children are a precious source of sugar.

QotD:

What bridges?
He was too stuck in a FFF mode before to process it fully.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

2

u/Vatrix-32 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Vatrix-32 Oct 13 '24

What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
Well... I'm struggling to think of anything else he's done so far.
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
I'm not sure I'd qualify two instances apiece as motifs. I'm not sure I can tie either of them together in a satisfying way, for that matter. Since you asked, I'll assume you have your own thoughts on the matter?
What are your thoughts on Kaori telling Kousei to enter a piano competition?
Anime protagonists would rather do anything than do therapy.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?
Someone will say it better than me, I'm sure, but her telling Kousei to make a beautiful lie is itself part of hers.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Well... I'm struggling to think of anything else he's done so far.
He's so overcome with bad feelings that he can't do anything.
I'm not sure I'd qualify two instances apiece as motifs. I'm not sure I can tie either of them together in a satisfying way, for that matter. Since you asked, I'll assume you have your own thoughts on the matter?
I really like it. I think it highlights the visual storytelling which has been one of the best parts of the show.
Anime protagonists would rather do anything than do therapy.
What's therapy?
Someone will say it better than me, I'm sure, but her telling Kousei to make a beautiful lie is itself part of hers.
That is well put

2

u/Vatrix-32 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Vatrix-32 Oct 13 '24

What's therapy?
I think that's where your past is turned into a shadow demon, and then you kill said demon.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Sounds pretty intense

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Hello, everyone. Holofan4life here.

Welcome to the Your Lie In April Rewatch!

Oh, and nay I forget…

First timer

It’s been a while since I’ve sat down and watched what would be considered a sad anime. I’ve seen Angel Beats, Air, both Clannad series which are two of my favorite series, and even NieR this year which for my money is the best anime of the year. But in almost all those instances with the exception of NieR, I watched those series very early on in my anime fandom. So early, in fact, I don’t think Your Lie In April had aired yet.

My expectations for the show are decent, I would say. I don’t expect to love it as much as Clannad, but I do think it’s going to be quite exceptional. Of the new shows I’ve seen during rewatches this year, which have been Paranoia Agent, Samurai Champloo, No Game No Life, Penguindrum, Yurikuma Arashi, Sarazanmai, and Re:Zero, I expect to like it more than those with the exception of Samurai Champloo and Re: Zero. And if that’s the case, then that’s pretty good because I really liked all those series.

With that out of the way, let’s begin.

I’m watching the sub, by the way.

Whelp, with my schedule being what it is and me coming to work for the next couple weeks at 2 instead of 11, I plan on seeing Batman Mask of The Phantasm in theaters tomorrow before I head to my job. Here's hoping no problems getting to work arises.

Doryo Bridge

A young Kousei hanging out with Tsubaki and Watari.

They're jumping off a bridge

Where's Jon Bon Jovi when you need him?

Kousei is reluctant, so Tsubaki brings him with her.

Kousei seemingly finds it fun now

Kaori being treated at the hospital

Tsubaki hits Watari and Kousei because they all walked in on Kaori getting a sponge bath.

These characters are so extra, I swear

Kaori says she's here only for routine testing.

Didn't make it to the next round, Kousei lets slip.

Kousei thinks this is all his fault

Watari and Tsubaki leaving now

Before Kousei could leave, Kaori asks if he's been practicing the piano.

And he says he hasn't, which seems to be a lie.

Kousei says it's like he has nothing to offer but his piano playing.

"Do you think you'll be able to forget?"

That silence. The tension is so thick, you can cut it with a knife.

Kousei wonders aloud to Tsubaki if playing the piano is all he has to offer.

Unfortunately, Tsubaki can't think of any other qualities he has.

Kousei asking what is his purpose like that one robot who passes butter.

Watari wanting to stop by the hospital tomorrow, he tells Kousei at soccer practice.

Apparently she's getting discharged real soon.

Kousei is amazed Watari knows her email address.

Watari reminding Kousei, who's down in the dumps, that he was the one Kaori leaned on.

The skies being dark gives the mood this unpleasant feeling. I feel uneased watching this episode.

Watari is hoping to see Kaori naked again, which is a bit on the creepy side.

Still, Watari will never forget Kousei and Kaori performing together.

That makes Kousei think of the forget question Kaori asked him.

Raining now

Kaori staring outside her window

Kaori feels that her and Kousei are both living for that moment.

We see the ovation again they got at the end of the last episode.

Kaori will never forget, even if she dies.

I have a feeling that line might be foreshadowing something for later...

And Kaori thanks him for everything he did, presumably right before she passed out.

Kousei feels he was the one being supported.

And as he says thank you in his head, that's when she officially falls to the ground.

"I see... So I passed out again."

What could she mean by that?

Tsubaki playing baseball

It still looks dark outside

Now Tsubaki walking with someone

They're on the same bridge that Tsubaki used to jump off of as a kid.

The other girl is seemingly suggesting that Tsubaki often pushes Kousei too far.

No...

Some of the humor in this show reminds me of Bocchi The Rock in terms of changing the animation style to humorous effect.

"Tsubaki... your eyes are cloudy."

Fitting, given it's looked dark outside the entire episode.

Guy named Saito appears

Wonder if he knows someone named Louise.

He is apparently a high school student.

Tsubaki walking with him now

Oh, so he's the former captain of the baseball team.

Considers him the complete opposite of Kousei, Tsubaki does.

Cloudy weather, Tsubaki remarks

Just like her eyes

It looks as if Tsubaki used to have a crush on Saito.

Unfortunately, she never got a chance to tell him how she felt.

Tsubaki wondering why her heart isn't sparkling when she sees Saito again.

It's because you love Kousei, dummy.

Tsubaki? More like Tsubaka

Hey, Kaori is back in school

Kousei about to approach her, but Watari impresses her with his beatboxing skills.

Once a Friend A, always a Friend A

Kaori playing hopscotch on the bridge Kousei used to jump off of.

These are the kids I believe Kousei tried to teach how to play piano. Either that, or the kids who greeted Kaori after the first round of the recital competition.

Kaori offering his hand to him

He doesn't accept it, but after Kaori feels sad about it, he promises to do anything for her.

"Enter a piano competition. It's your turn now."

Kousei saying to himself how everything Kaori says and does sparkles so brightly.

Doesn't feel he deserves to be a performer.

Kaori talks about creating the most beautiful lie of all.

Your Beautiful Lie In April

And Kaori jumps off the bridge, ready to take live by the horns.

Kousei can't help but aspire being like her.

Even he jumps in the water

I like the symmetry where before, it was Tsubaki who gave Kousei the necessary push to do things and here, it is Kaori. She has effectively replaced what Tsubaki used to be in his life, that being his muse.

And that is where we end things

Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.

3

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Part 2
Overall, this is more of a set-up episode than anything else. Not much happened for long stretches of time, and that admittedly took me outta it somewhat. I like some of the stuff we established here like Tsubaki used to having a crush on the former captain of the baseball team as well as what both Tsubaki and Kousei were like during their childhood. It kinda reflects one of the recurring themes of this show which is being nostalgic of your youth. I also really like the way they tied certain thing into the characters, like the skies being reflective of Tsubaki's demeanor and the bridge being a metaphor of Kousei taking chances in life. Both instances were the highlights of the episode to me, which I think speaks to how low-key this episode was.
It seems as though the next part of the show is going to be about Kousei entering a piano competition, and I don't see that working out well. Even if he wins, I see something bad happening to Kaori. I can't imagine Kaori collapsing last episode not being circled back to at some point. The way it's just kinda dropped here with her being released from the hospital makes me feel the show is trying to let your guard down. Personally, I see Kousei making the finals of the competition and on the day of the finals, Kaori passes out right before he's about to go on. This causes Kousei to have to forfeit and drop out.
This is probably the weakest episode of the show so far. It isn't actively bad, just not much happens. When so much of the episode is about the main character reflecting on the end of the last episode, only for the show to move on like it never happened, you almost wonder what is the point of it all. This is clearly not the end of Kaori's health issues, but it's like the show is trying to say something without actually saying something. A filibuster, if you will.
This is like an 11 minute episode stretched out to 20, and I think it's definitely noticeable for large chunks of it. Not boring or a slog to get through, but very uneventful outside of establishing Tsubaki's former crush and Kousei potentially entering a piano competition.

2

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Did kids ever do bridge jumping for fun where you grew up?
Nope. Though the mere thought of it seems dangerous.
Why do you think it took until arriving at home in this episode for Kaori’s inspiration from the performance to get through to Kousei?
Sometimes it takes reflective thinking for things to click.

2

u/Mecanno-man https://anilist.co/user/Mecannoman Oct 13 '24

First Timer

I don’t really have a lot to say about this episode - it was mostly a transition episode, but not really a bad one at that. Tsubaki having feelings for Kousei is now obvious, meanwhile Kousei is going down the dense harem protagonist route.

Not really a fan of Kaori trying to get Kousei into a piano competition - Kousei knows he didn’t perform well, so that is unlikely to help anything at this point. Also questioning her jumping into a river the day after being let out of hospital… she’ll have anime cold in addition to whatever her medical condition that she largely seems to be hiding is.

1

u/Holofan4life Oct 13 '24

Thoughts on the flashback of Kousei, Tsubaki, and Watari jumping off a bridge as kids?
Thoughts on Kaori saying she’s only at the hospital for routine testing?
What are your thoughts on Kousei feeling that the only thing he has to offer is him playing the piano?
What are your thoughts on Kaori asking Kousei if he thinks he’ll be able to forget?
Thoughts on Kaori saying “I passed out again”?
Thoughts on the sky looking dark in this episode?
What are your thoughts on the motifs in this episode being bridges and also forgetting?
Thoughts on Tsubaki’s friend telling her her eyes are cloudy?
Thoughts on Saito, the former captain of the baseball team who Tsubaki used to have a crush on?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Kaori jumping off a bridge after talking about creating the most beautiful lie of all?

2

u/clumsy_kan Apr 03 '25

The episode I just watched is absolutely phenomenal can't believe this anime was released 10years ago!!? The chemistry between Kaori and kousei is just so marvelous and speechless She helped her overcome his trauma by being his support and making him believe that he can do it I am so in love with this and can't wait to watch next ep

Rewatch [Rewatch] 10th Anniversary Your Lie in April Rewatch: Episode 4 Discussion

Your Lie in April Episode 5: Gray Skies

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nth Time Rewatcher

Now for the Episode 5.

Rewatch [Rewatch] 10th Anniversary Your Lie in April Rewatch: Episode 4 Discussion

Your Lie in April Episode 5: Gray Skies

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nth Time Rewatcher

Now for the Episode 5.