Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Netflix’s ‘Moonrise’ Dazzles Visually but Falls Short Narratively

The long-awaited anime from WIT Studio showcases stunning visuals and ambitious themes but struggles with uneven storytelling and character development.

  • Moonrise, a six-year production from WIT Studio, debuted on Netflix with all 18 episodes now available for streaming.
  • The anime, directed by Masashi Koizuka and featuring character designs by Hiromu Arakawa, combines space opera elements with socio-political commentary.
  • Set in a near-future conflict between Earth and the Moon, the story follows protagonist Jacob Shadow, whose personal loss drives him into a military struggle against lunar rebels.
  • Critics have praised the series for its breathtaking animation, epic space battles, and cinematic world-building.
  • However, reviewers have highlighted issues with the narrative's pacing, underdeveloped character arcs, and a lack of emotional depth, which detract from its overall impact.
Hero image