This is probably one of the most earnest tales about bullying. It was very relatable and welcome. I guess a lot of people who haven't experienced something similar wouldn't be able to understand or want to. I'm also guessing the animation budget not being big deterred a lot of people. But that really isn't fair. The background art is pretty darn good, the music really suits the film. As for the story, it really doesn't hold back much while avoiding being graphic. There's some pretty grim stuff the seven are going through.

The scenes of teachers blaming the bullying target with their inadequate actions and virtually siding with the bully is so damn accurate. I experienced this and can vouch for such a scenario being genuine. Along with the fear of being next in line to be bullied, or a similar dynamic emerging even within a small group of those bullied. I felt the personal journey of Kokoro was believable, as well as the others. I felt all of the seven mattered. Now, the criticism some film critics loved to level at this - several of the major plot twists were too easy to see. Perhaps - but if it is well executed and the resulting effect really hits home, is that a problem? There is a valid explanation for everything that happens, there is a lot at stake, the finale for the seven is apt and hopeful. It's also heartening to see the character that made a difference in the real world and why - because their backstory was freaking chilling.