Common Sense Media Review
Torture, threats in religion versus science anime.
Parents Need to Know
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Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ORB: ON THE MOVEMENTS OF THE EARTH is set in 15th century Europe during a time where Catholicism was mainstream, and anyone who went against the church risked being severely punished. During this period, a young boy named Rafal (voiced by Maaya Sakamoto), a 12-year-old orphan and prodigy, graduates school early and goes straight to college. He learns that if you say the things people want to hear, you can be very successful in life. Because of this, he decides to major in theology, despite his intense love for astronomy, which he'll now have to give up. He then meets Hubert, (voiced by Show Hayami) an old man recently released from prison for heresy. Hubert blackmails Rafal into working for him, and the story follows the two of them as well as others who work to discover scientific truths.
Is It Any Good?
This unique anime has a decent pace and storyline, exploring a time period and world that's changed in some ways but not in others. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is a traditional take on the medieval mindset, showing how Catholicism was a huge part of everyday life in the 15th century. It showed the unfortunate discrimination people faced if they were different, whether it was one's beliefs or one's gender. Viewing the story from the side of the "heretics" makes the anticipation build, and heightens the sympathy for characters who strive to tell the truth.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Rafal's experience working for Hubert. How do you think he felt about being blackmailed into the situation?
Families can talk about Jolenta's feelings when being discriminated against in her college. What obstacles did she face being the only female student in an all-male, 15th century college?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 5, 2024
- Cast : Maaya Sakamoto , Yuuichi Nakamura , Miyuri Shimabukuro
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Anime
- Topics : History , STEM
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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