True Tears (stylized as true tears) is a Japanese anime television series produced by P.A. Works and directed by Junji Nishimura. It aired in Japan on tvk between January 6, 2008, and March 30, 2008, containing thirteen episodes. The series shares almost nothing in common with the visual novel of the same name that preceded it, using an entirely different story with different characters, and a different art style. An Internet radio show hosted by three voice actresses from the series was also produced to promote it. A Blu-ray box set released in Japan contained an extra three-minute epilogue. Bandai Entertainment initially released the series in North America, but the license was later transferred to Discotek Media.
Plot
True Tears revolves around a high school student named Shin'ichirō Nakagami with a high artistic ability. He lives with his mother, father, and fellow high school student Hiromi Yuasa who moved into his house after her father died. Her father had been a close friend of the family, so it was natural for Hiromi to come stay with the Nakagami family; one year has passed since she came to live in their home.
Shin'ichirō has known Hiromi for years, but before he had always treasured her smile, though now she acts coldly when at home and he cannot bring up the nerve to talk with her either. When she is at school, Hiromi is popular, always smiles, and is talented in sports, but Shin'ichirō knows she must be hiding things inside her. At school, he meets a strange girl named Noe Isurugi who wishes him misfortune after Shin'ichirō teases her.