Review On the Movements of the Earth 🌎 The Fight for the Knowledge You Believe In

Welcome to another art post here in the community.

You know when you're browsing anime streaming platforms with no expectations and suddenly come across a hidden gem? Well, that's exactly what happened to me when I stumbled upon this.

On the Movements of the Earth.

Recently released by the renowned Madhouse, yes, the same studio that brought us Frieren: Beyond Journey's End.

"Orb" is an adaptation of Uoto's manga. The story takes us to 15th-century Poland, where we follow Rafal, a young prodigy fascinated by the idea of heliocentrism.

Heliocentrism: An astronomical theory that states the Sun is the center of the universe and that the planets revolve around it.

That's right, the same theory that placed the Sun at the center of the universe, challenging the beliefs of the time and, of course, attracting the not-so-friendly attention of the Inquisition.

A side note, could this disprove the idea that the Earth is flat?
Let's not lose focus here, shall we?

Too many astrological ideas?

The anime does a masterful job of intertwining the contributions of various characters in the evolution of this theory, showing how the pursuit of knowledge persists even in the face of oppression.

The philosophical discussions are deep, the animation is detailed, and the celestial representations are breathtaking. If you enjoyed Vinland Saga or appreciate the impactful works of Mike Flanagan, "Orb" is a must-watch.

15th-Century Europe

The church controls everything, and questioning its doctrines could cost your life. The young Rafal, a genius in astronomy, is raised by Potocki, who wants him to study theology. But everything changes when he meets Hubert, a heretical scholar who involves him in a secret study about the movement of the Earth. At first, Rafal is skeptical, but he eventually proves the heliocentric model on his own. When the Inquisition discovers his notes, Hubert sacrifices himself to save Rafal, who continues his research in hiding.

However, Potocki, fearing the danger, hands him over to the Church.

At his trial, Rafal refuses to deny his discovery, and before his execution, he chooses his own fate by ingesting poison.

Years later, the fight for knowledge continues with Oczy and Gras, two duelists tasked with escorting a heretical prisoner. During their journey, they discover a box containing astronomical research. Gras dies, and Oczy carries on with the mission, delivering the studies to Badeni, a disgraced priest.

With the help of new allies, they advance the heliocentric theory, but the Inquisition gives them no respite.

Badeni and Oczy are executed, but Jolenta, an assistant to a scholar, manages to survive and keep the legacy alive.

This anime delivers an intense and layered experience.

The story isn’t just about science versus religion but about the struggle of knowledge against censorship, resistance against oppression, and how an idea can transcend generations even in the face of immense adversity. If you enjoy stories that mix historical drama with philosophical dilemmas and tragic sacrifices, this anime seems to deliver exactly that.

Perhaps the only downside is that, in some episodes, there’s just too much talking.

It’s like watching a boring documentary about wildlife. You might find yourself dozing off from all the philosophical dialogue.

Official Trailer