1 Litre of Tears has built a real following among viewers who do not usually seek out animation. A single, tightly-focused season means there is plenty to get through without ever feeling padded. 162 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Erika Sawajiri brings more to the role than the format usually demands. Available now — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, 1 Litre of Tears earns its spot. Visually distinctive and narratively ambitious, 1 Litre of Tears operates well above the genre average. 1 Rittoru no Namida is a Japanese television drama for Fuji Television about a girl who was diagnosed with an incurable degenerative disease at 15, but was able to continue her life until her death at the age of 25. The voice work from Erika Sawajiri and Hiroko Yakushimaru adds real texture, not just recognisable names. It first aired in 2005. The animation style is distinctive enough to be immediately recognisable, but it is the writing underneath that keeps viewers coming back for more. The consistency throughout is what elevates it — not every moment is the best, but none of them are a reason to stop watching.

If you have been sleeping on 1 Litre of Tears because of the format, the format is not the issue here. The tonal similarities to Sky of Love: Someone I love is there are real, though 1 Litre of Tears carves out its own identity quickly. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch if your schedule allows. The writing operates at a level the format's reputation does not fully prepare you for. Adult animation that actually works for adults.

1 Litre of Tears wrapped up in 2005, created by Takao Kinoshita and Shosuke Murakami — and 1 season is available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro's free voice app makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just say the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.