>>195234
The plot's conclusion is not terribly satisfying, but it is at least thematically/philosophically coherent. Watching it, my impression is that the protagonists are meant to be empty husks of human beings and that their society is held in low regard by the author. In other words, I agree with OP about the critique element. However, this makes the story a little dull. It compensates this with atmospheric worldbuilding. The author is obviously inspired by typical dystopian literature like 1984, Fahrenheit, and Brave New World - to which it partially owes its name, along with the Dvorak symphony. I would say it's worth watching, if only because I don't think there's another anime quite like it.
>>195234
It's basically hand holding and head pats on both counts. There might be a kiss, but I honestly can't remember.