Watch Planetarian

Planetarian is a beautifully crafted anime series that delivers a poignant story of hope in the face of despair. With its stunning animation, evocative sound design, and powerful performances, the show offers a captivating exploration of what it means to be human, even in the darkest of times.

At the center of the story is Yumemi, a cheerful and lovable robot who works as a "planetarium hostess" at a long-abandoned observatory in a post-apocalyptic world. When a scavenger named Kuzuya stumbles upon the observatory in search of supplies, he encounters Yumemi and is drawn into her world of stargazing and wonder. As the two unlikely companions spend time together, Yumemi's childlike innocence and unwavering optimism begin to chip away at Kuzuya's hardened exterior, leading him to confront his own past and rediscover his humanity.

Throughout the series, Planetarian deftly weaves together a variety of themes and motifs, from the nature of memory and nostalgia to the power of storytelling and the role of science in shaping our understanding of the universe. It is a show that asks big questions about what it means to exist and what makes life worth living, but it does so with a lightness of touch and a sense of wonder that make it deeply engaging and enjoyable to watch.

One of the most striking aspects of Planetarian is its visual style. The show's backgrounds are breathtakingly detailed and realistic, with a level of texture and nuance that makes the ruined world feel all the more immersive. The characters themselves are rendered in a more stylized, almost chibi-like manner, which can be a bit jarring at first but ultimately adds to the show's whimsical charm. Even the robot designs are imbued with a sense of personality and emotion, particularly in Yumemi's case, where her bright red eyes and quirky mannerisms give her a sense of childlike wonder and curiosity.

But perhaps the most impressive element of the show is its sound design. From the creaking of the observatory's rusted metal doors to the delicate chime of Yumemi's music box, every sound in the series feels carefully crafted and deliberately chosen. The score, composed by visual novel veteran Shinji Orito, is particularly noteworthy, with its haunting piano melodies and soaring, orchestral themes perfectly capturing the show's emotional resonance.

At its core, Planetarian is a story about connection and hope. Through their interactions, Yumemi and Kuzuya come to understand each other in ways that neither of them initially thought possible, and the bond that forms between them is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The show doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of its world - the desolation, the environmental decay, the sense of loss and despair that permeates everything - but it also offers a glimmer of light in the form of Yumemi's unflagging optimism.

Overall, Planetarian is a must-watch for anyone looking for a thoughtful and emotionally resonant anime series. With its vivid characters, stunning visuals, and unforgettable story, it is a show that will stay with you long after the final credits have rolled. Whether you're a die-hard anime fan or just looking for something to fill an evening, Planetarian delivers a rich and rewarding viewing experience that is not to be missed.

Planetarian is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between July 8, 2016 and on