For Some Reason, Everyone Is Sleeping on Netflix’s Best Anime of 2025

Netflix has been home to some of the most enjoyable anime releases in recent years, yet somehow, one of its greatest offerings in 2025, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is flying completely under the radar. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is an ambitious and emotionally charged series that has a powerful blend of historical intrigue, philosophical debate, and deeply personal storytelling. While anime fans have flocked to high-profile series like Dandadan and Kaiju No. 8, Orb quietly cements itself as a true masterpiece and one that deserves far more recognition than it is getting.

For those who have yet to dive into Orb, the series explores the historical and scientific evolution of heliocentrism, weaving together multiple protagonists who shape, challenge, and refine the understanding of planetary motion. But its greatness is not only the educational and intellectual information it gives; Orb thrives on the rich interplay of characters, each bringing unique perspectives, struggles, and ideologies to the narrative. With its breathtaking animation, meticulous storytelling, and thematic complexity, this is the kind of show that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.

A Masterclass in Character-Driven Storytelling

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth Has Some of Anime’s Best Characters

What sets Orb apart from many anime series is its intricate character writing. Instead of following a single protagonist, the series has a dynamic cast of thinkers, scholars, and visionaries, each with their own motivations and worldviews. Every new character feels distinct, not just in personality, but in their historical and ideological context.

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One of the show’s strongest aspects is how it introduces and develops these characters. Episode 3, in particular, stands out as a masterclass in character building. It does not just build tension through plot twists; it constructs an emotional and interesting journey through dialogue and interactions that shape each character’s evolving belief system. The anime does not rush to make its points but allows organic conversations to drive the philosophical core of the narrative.

This results in some of the most deeply engaging character arcs seen in anime this year. Whether it is a scientist struggling against the constraints of dogma or a scholar battling personal doubts, each character’s journey adds a compelling layer to the overarching theme of knowledge and discovery. Orb understands that grand ideas are most impactful when rooted in human experiences, and it executes this beautifully.

A Unique Blend of Mystery, Politics, and Philosophy

Orb’s Plot Has Something For Every Kind of Anime Fan to Enjoy

Fans of series like Attack on Titan and Vinland Saga will find a lot to love in Orb’s intricate world-building and political intrigue. While its premise revolves around astronomy and scientific discovery, the show is equally invested in exploring the political and social structures that shape intellectual progress, or suppress it.

The anime is not just a dry historical account of scientific breakthroughs. Instead, it injects a thrilling sense of urgency into its story, much like The Da Vinci Code does with historical mysteries. The struggle for knowledge is not just academic; it is a fight for survival, freedom, and truth against oppressive systems. The show frequently has moral dilemmas where characters must choose between personal safety and intellectual integrity, leading to moments of incredible emotional weight.

This balance of history, philosophy, and drama creates a viewing experience that is both intellectually stimulating and completely gripping. Viewers are left questioning their own perceptions of truth, authority, and the nature of progress, making Orb a deeply thought-provoking series beyond its entertainment value.

A Visually and Emotionally Stunning Watch

Orb Has Both Amazing Animation and Intense Emotional Moments That Will Hook Anyone

Beyond the amazing parts of its story, Orb is also an audiovisual masterpiece. The animation, while not anything new, is beautifully detailed, with an emphasis on expressive character designs and historically accurate settings. Every frame feels meticulously drawn to immerse viewers in the time periods depicted, reinforcing the sense of authenticity that grounds the series.

The emotional highs and lows of Orb are made more clear by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that perfectly complements the show’s reflective and intense moments. Whether it is a quiet moment of contemplation under the stars or a dramatic confrontation about the nature of existence, the music takes the scene’s impact to the next level without overpowering it.

What makes Orb so emotionally powerful is its ability to make viewers feel the weight of its characters’ struggles. The show is unafraid to break hearts, delivering gut-punching moments that resonate long after the episode ends. With themes of sacrifice, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of truth, Orb captures the essence of what makes great storytelling timeless.

Why Orb: On the Movements of the Earth Deserves More Attention

Orb Was One of the Best, Yet Most Criminally Underrated Series of 2025 on Netflix

Despite how amazing it is, Orb has remained somewhat of an underdog in the anime landscape of 2025. It does not have the flashy action sequences of a shōnen blockbuster like Dandadan and Re:Zero or the immediate hype of a long-running franchise, but what it does have is an exceptional level of storytelling depth and emotional resonance.​​​​​​​

Another reason Orb deserves more recognition is its ability to spark meaningful discussions about the nature of progress and human resilience. The show does not just show the struggles of historical thinkers, it invites viewers to reflect on modern parallels, where scientific truths and ideological conflicts still shape the real world. By grounding its story in real intellectual and philosophical challenges, Orb becomes more than just an anime; it is a conversation starter about the power of knowledge and the courage it takes to question the status quo. This level of depth is rare, making Orb an essential watch for thoughtful anime fans.

Many anime fans who have given Orb a chance have come away raving about its impact, but its lack of mainstream recognition is very frustrating. Perhaps it is due to its historical and philosophical themes being thought of as niche, or maybe it simply lacks the marketing push that other big-name releases receive. Whatever the reason, Orb is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by more viewers.

Anime fans who crave a series that challenges the mind while tugging at the heartstrings need to give Orb: On the Movements of the Earth the attention it deserves. With its intelligent writing, shocking and deep character arcs, and thought-provoking themes, it stands as one of Netflix’s best anime releases in years. If anime fans have not watched it yet, now is the time, before it becomes one of those masterpieces people regret overlooking.