In a new release by Netflix, the sci-fi anime “Moonrise” emerges as a collaboration involving notable creators, appealing to both seasoned and newer fans of anime. Despite Netflix’s limited promotion ahead of its debut, the production combines the talents of director Masashi Koizuka, known for his work with Wit Studio on “Attack on Titan,” character designs by Hiromu Arakawa of “Fullmetal Alchemist” fame, and a script by Tow Ubukata, recognized for “Fafner in the Azure.” Promising a space opera reminiscent of “Star Wars” and “Space Battleship Yamato,” the series gained attention even before its premiere. However, despite its strong sci-fi action sequences and refined animation, the narrative struggles to deliver a harmonious experience under Netflix’s binge-watch model.
The storyline of “Moonrise” is set in a near future where humanity thrives in a utopian environment, devoid of discrimination, war, pollution, and prejudice, due to an AI network called Sapientia managing global affairs. This technology-driven society uses a lunar development project to address Earthly issues, shifting criminals and pollutants to the moon. This situation sparks a civil conflict involving three factions: a rebel lunar army, lunar “Sapientian” loyalists, and Earth’s military forces. Central to the conflict is Jack Shadow, who, motivated by the loss of his family during a terrorist incident, becomes part of a covert group assigned to neutralize Bob Skylum, a rebel leader. His mission is complicated upon discovering his childhood friend has taken a stand on the opposite side.
“Moonrise” successfully emulates the grandeur of a high-budget Hollywood space opera through its visual elements, bringing together impressive CGI space freighters and fast-paced, gravity-defying fight choreography. The series incorporates pressing political themes of 2025, reflecting on societal privileges, while introducing “engrave,” a form of space magic enabling characters to create energy-based weapons from special materials.
Character designs by Hiromu Arakawa add to the appeal, bringing diversity in body types and ethnicities to the cast, creating a more relatable space-faring narrative. Despite these strong elements, the anime struggles narratively, as its compelling plot begins to dissipate mid-series, affected by erratic time handling and unfocused storytelling. “Moonrise” leaves viewers without clarity as character motivations and alliances become obscured throughout its 18-episode run.
The anime attempts to weave complex components into its extended runtime; however, it loses coherence, resembling a rushed finale. The narrative sacrifices depth, with its supporting characters remaining underdeveloped, failing to go beyond archetypal roles. Meanwhile, its ending theme briefly offers a glimpse into the personalities and dynamics that the show itself underexplores.
Ultimately, “Moonrise” concludes without effectively integrating its plot threads into a satisfying ending, neglecting the political intricacies laid down earlier. This leaves a feeling of missed potential for a classic sci-fi narrative. All episodes of “Moonrise” are currently available for streaming on Netflix.
