LOVE and LIES

Set in a near-future Japan, LOVE and LIES, also known as Koi to Uso, delves into a society where the government has intervened in personal relationships through the 'Yukari Law'. This system, designed to combat declining birth rates and ensure genetically optimal offspring, dictates marriage partners based on compatibility rather than individual choice. The narrative centers on Yukari Nejima, a 15-year-old high school student who finds himself in an intricate romantic predicament. He harbors deep feelings for his childhood friend, Misaki Takasaki, a love he has secretly cherished for years. However, the Yukari Law assigns him to Lilina Sanada, an intelligent and attractive girl he barely knows. The series masterfully explores the emotional and ethical complexities arising from this government mandate. Lilina, unexpectedly, becomes a pivotal figure by encouraging Yukari to pursue his genuine feelings for Misaki, creating a unique and turbulent love triangle. This setup allows the anime to examine profound themes of love, individual freedom versus societal obligation, and the psychological impact of arranged relationships. Supporting characters, such as Yukari's loyal best friend Yuusuke Nisaka, further enrich the narrative by adding layers of friendship, jealousy, and self-discovery within this challenging social framework. Produced by LIDENFILMS, the 12-episode series, which premiered in July 2017, offers a compelling blend of drama and romance, inviting viewers to ponder the true essence of love in a world where it is legislated.

LOVE and LIES introduces a highly compelling premise: a futuristic Japan where the government dictates marriages based on genetic compatibility. This concept promises a fresh, thought-provoking exploration of love and societal control within the romance genre. While the anime successfully establishes this intriguing backdrop, its execution, particularly in character development and narrative pacing, often adheres to conventional love triangle dynamics. Yukari Nejima, the protagonist, frequently exhibits an indecisiveness that, while relatable, can lead to prolonged emotional stagnation and predictable romantic entanglements with both Misaki Takasaki and Lilina Sanada. The series' portrayal of the 'Yukari Law' and the implied societal pressures is compelling, yet the narrative often shies away from depicting severe consequences for defying the system, which can diminish the dramatic tension and the stakes for the characters. From an animation standpoint, LIDENFILMS delivers a competent visual experience. Character designs are clear and expressive, and the art direction employs a generally subdued color palette that effectively complements the series' more melancholic and reflective tones. The voice acting is generally solid, with key performances conveying the characters' emotional turmoil effectively. The accompanying soundtrack subtly enhances the mood without becoming intrusive. In summary, LOVE and LIES is a respectable romantic drama that prompts valuable discussions about autonomy and affection. However, its narrative could have benefited from a more courageous departure from established genre tropes to fully capitalize on its innovative dystopian foundation, ultimately offering a good, though not exceptional, viewing experience for fans of romantic dilemmas.