The anime adaptation of Uoto’s historical manga, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, has released a second promotional video, revealing additional cast members and a new ending theme song. The series, which premiered in October 2024, is currently airing its second cour, with the 16th episode set to air this weekend.
New Cast Members for Chapter 3
The second trailer introduces Miyuri Shimabukuro as Draka and Satoshi Hino as Schmidt, who will be joining the cast for the anime’s third part. These new characters are pivotal as the story progresses, and their addition promises to bring more depth to the narrative.
The existing main cast members, who have been with the anime since its debut, include:
- Maaya Sakamoto as Rafal
- Kenjiro Tsuda as Novak
- Sho Hayami as Hubert
- Katsuyuki Konishi as Oczy
- Yuichi Nakamura as Badeni
- Saya Hitomi as Jolenta
Their continued involvement ensures a smooth transition into the next chapter of the story.
Production Team Remains Consistent
The core production team remains unchanged for the second cour, maintaining consistency in the anime’s visual and narrative style. The key members of the team include:
- Director: Kenichi Shimizu
- Series Composition: Shingo Irie
- Character Designer: Masanori Shino
- Music: Kensuke Ushio
- Sound Director: Kisuke Koizumi
- Animation Studio: MADHOUSE
With their experience and dedication, viewers can expect the same high-quality animation and storytelling.
Yorushika Returns with New Ending Theme “Hebi”
The second trailer also unveiled the new ending theme song, titled “Hebi” (Snake), performed by the Japanese rock duo Yorushika. This marks the second contribution of Yorushika to the anime, as they previously performed the first ending theme song, “Aporia.”
The shift in the ending theme aligns with the narrative progression of the anime, which is currently airing its second cour. The opening theme song, “Kaiju” by Sakanaction, will remain consistent.
Yorushika’s “Aporia”
Yorushika’s first ending theme, “Aporia,” was released as a digital single on October 7, 2024, and is featured in the earlier episodes of the anime. The music video for “Aporia” was released on Yorushika’s official YouTube channel.
Thematic Significance of “Hebi”
The title “Hebi” (Snake) for the new ending theme could have thematic significance related to the story’s development. Snakes often symbolize transformation, hidden knowledge, and temptation.
Anime’s Plot and Setting
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is set in 15th-century Europe, where the prevailing belief was that the Earth was the center of the universe. The story centers on Rafal, a brilliant young man who discovers that the Earth actually revolves around the Sun, a heretical concept at the time. Rafal’s journey is fraught with danger as his beliefs put him in opposition to the powerful Inquisition.
Manga Background
The manga, written and illustrated by Uoto, was serialized in Shogakukan’s Weekly Big Comic Spirits magazine from September 2020 to April 2022, with its chapters compiled into eight tankōbon volumes. The series has received high acclaim, winning the first prize at the 26th Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize in 2022.
Story Synopsis
The story follows Rafal’s quest for knowledge and the impact his findings have on others. Years after Rafal’s persecution, members of the Watch Guild discover his hidden texts detailing the secrets of the universe. The narrative explores themes of intellectual freedom, the pursuit of truth, and the conflict between science and dogma.
Official English Release
Seven Seas Entertainment has licensed the manga in English, making it accessible to a wider audience. The official synopsis describes the plot:
“In fifteenth-century Europe, heretics are being burned at the stake. Rafal, a brilliant young man, is expected to enter university at an early age and study the era’s most important field, theology. But Rafal values Reason above all else, which leads him both to the shocking conclusion that the Earth orbits the Sun, and into the hands of the Inquisition! A decade later, two members of the Watch Guild, the dour young Oczy and the cynical Gras, find a hidden stone chest that details the secrets of the universe Rafal left behind. Dare they try to change their own stars by selling the heretical texts, or would that only lead to the stake and the fire?”
Anime Broadcast and Streaming
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth premiered on October 5, 2024, in Japan, and the anime is set to have 25 episodes, airing for a continuous half-year. The series is currently broadcasting its second cour.
Where to Watch
Netflix is streaming the anime worldwide, allowing international audiences to experience this historical drama series. This wide accessibility has contributed significantly to the anime’s popularity.
Special Exhibition
Adding to its media presence, the anime also has a special exhibition in March, further solidifying its status as a noteworthy project.
Thematic Depth and Historical Context
The anime delves into a pivotal period in history, exploring the challenges faced by those who dared to question established beliefs. The clash between scientific inquiry and religious dogma is a central theme, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge. The anime’s intricate plot, coupled with its historical setting, provides a rich viewing experience.
Conclusion
With the introduction of new cast members and a new ending theme song, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and historical context. The anime’s success can be attributed to its well-developed characters, the high quality of its production, and its thought-provoking exploration of intellectual freedom. As the second cour unfolds, viewers can expect further development of the plot and characters, solidifying the anime’s place as a must-watch series.
