LOVE and LIES

Born from a dystopian future, LOVE and LIES is a 2017 anime series that wrestles with the dynamics of affections and emotions set against a bureaucratic backdrop that governs love and relationships. It dwells in a future where the freedom of falling in love has been replaced by a regulated system, creating a compelling narrative that is both a heart-warming romance and keen social commentary. Created by Liden Films and produced by Frontier Works, LOVE and LIES is a conceptual powerhouse that is as much a drama-filled love story as it is an exploration of societal control and interpersonal freedom, presented through the lens of exquisite anime aesthetics.

The story revolves around Yukari Nejima, a somewhat ordinary 15-year-old, who exists in a society where the government controls who you can fall in love with. Upon turning sixteen, citizens are assigned a marriage partner by the government based on compatibility. Supposedly, this system maximizes birth rate, ensures strong genetics, and facilitates an utopian world devoid of heartache and relationship issues. However, it also dictates one crucial aspect of humanistic freedom— the liberty to choose a life partner.

In the face of this oppressive system, Yukari finds himself in a predicament where he falls in love with Misaki Takasaki, his long-time crush. However, upon his 16th birthday, he is assigned another girl, Ririna Sanada, as his future wife. In a society where defiance and disobedience can result in severe consequences, Yukari, Misaki, and Ririna find themselves entangled in a complex web of emotions and authoritative regulations, resulting in a youthful rebellion for true love and autonomy.

LOVE and LIES is innovatively written, exploring multiple facets of human emotions in a world where natural feelings conflict with government regulations. Each character is intricately designed, embodying layered personalities and displaying differing perspectives towards the marriage system. The series emphasises the struggle between Yukari, Misaki, and Ririna, each dealing with their individual complexities and group dynamics. The anime successfully blends romance, drama, and the dystopian world, creating a captivating narrative that leaves viewers deeply engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' futures.

Visually, LOVE and LIES flaunts a vibrant palette that paints an exciting dystopian world, with vivid character designs and detailed environment. The animation quality is consistent and aesthetically pleasing, complimenting the intense emotional drama unfolding within the story. Moreover, the series plays with symbolism throughout its narrative, allowing the players of the love triangle to be represented in varying perspectives. It employs clever narrative techniques to allow viewers to explore the emotional landscapes of Yukari, Misaki, and Ririna, increasing the depth and emotional impact of the plot.

The soundtrack for LOVE and LIES is carefully curated, often setting the mood of various scenes perfectly. The innovative use of music and sound creates an atmosphere that deepens the audience's immersion into this world. Notable is the opening theme "Kanashii Ureshii" by Frederic, which serves as a fitting introduction to each episode, capturing the angst, joy, and sadness that pervades the series.

Overall, LOVE and LIES is a complex and poignant exploration of societal control, personal freedom, and the sometimes unpredictable nature of human affections. It challenges the convention of ordinary high-school romance anime with a politically charged narrative that grasps viewers from the very start. Its beautiful animation, stirring soundtrack, and multi-dimensional characters craft an unforgettable anime experience. It's a show that asks tough questions about love, choice, and destiny, providing a substantial food for thought. Whether the viewer is an ardent fan of anime romance or a casual spectator looking for a unique premise, LOVE and LIES is sure to tug at your heartstrings while making you reflect on the notion of 'love' in a world with distinct rules and boundaries.