Chi: Chikyuu no Undou ni Tsuite [Season 1 Episode 25]

“Orb: On the Movements of the Earth” – A Masterpiece That Defies Expectations (Episode 25 Review)

When Orb: On the Movements of the Earth first aired, it promised a cerebral journey through history, philosophy, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Now, as the curtains close on its first season with Episode 25, it’s clear that this anime didn’t just meet expectations—it shattered them. Fans have been left in awe, dissecting every frame, every line of dialogue, and every twist that culminated in one of the most thought-provoking finales in recent memory.

A Story That Transcends Time

At its core, Orb is a tale about curiosity—how it drives humanity forward and, at times, consumes those who dare to question the status quo. The finale, much like the series itself, refuses to spoon-feed answers. Instead, it challenges viewers to piece together the puzzle of Rafal’s actions, Albert’s fate, and the legacy of heliocentrism.

One of the most talked-about moments in Episode 25 is the revelation that Rafal—the prodigy we’ve followed since the beginning—was responsible for the murder of Albert’s father. This twist wasn’t just shocking; it was a brutal reminder of how far obsession can push someone. As one fan put it: “Bro MURDERED his dad. Great little last-minute twist since we already knew about his dad’s death, but no way did we see that coming.”

Themes That Resonate

What makes Orb stand out is its refusal to paint its characters in black and white. Rafal isn’t a villain, nor is he a hero. He’s a product of his environment—a world where knowledge is power, and power corrupts. The finale’s exploration of conviction versus doubt struck a chord with many. One viewer noted: “The author boldly reveals both the greatest and darkest side of human intelligence. Orb isn’t propaganda; it shows how absolute belief—no matter what it’s rooted in—can lead to terrible consequences.”

Albert’s arc, meanwhile, serves as a counterbalance. His journey from a curious student to someone who chooses his own path is beautifully executed. Fans praised his final moments, with one saying: “Albert choosing to go his own way and stay true to himself was beautiful.”

Visual Storytelling at Its Finest

The anime’s art direction has always been a point of discussion, and the finale doubled down on its strengths. The recurring motif of characters gazing at the sky—whether in wonder or despair—felt symbolic of humanity’s eternal quest for answers. Some fans did criticize the dark color palette (“My only complaint is the dark backgrounds”), but even that choice felt intentional, mirroring the moral ambiguity of the story.

A Divisive Yet Satisfying Conclusion

Not everyone was entirely sold on the finale’s execution. Some found the alternate timeline elements confusing (“We are supposed to get all excited over the mix of fantasy and reality, alt timeline or whatever for the sake of it?”), while others felt the pacing in the last two episodes was uneven. Yet, even the critics couldn’t deny the show’s ambition.

For most, though, the ending was nothing short of perfection. The final scene—where the baton of knowledge is passed from Draka to Albert, and ultimately to Copernicus—was a masterstroke. As one fan eloquently put it: “This filled a void that Vinland Saga left behind and ended up leaving its own sphere-shaped one behind. Damn, man.”

Final Verdict: An Unforgettable Experience

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth isn’t just another historical anime. It’s a meditation on human nature, the cost of progress, and the fragile line between genius and madness. Episode 25 tied these themes together with a bow, leaving fans emotionally drained yet deeply satisfied.

As the credits rolled, one sentiment echoed across forums and social media: “Absolute cinema… what a plot twist. 10/10.” And honestly? They’re not wrong.

If you haven’t watched Orb yet, now’s the time to binge it. This is the kind of anime that stays with you long after the screen fades to black.

Rating: 10/10 – A Modern Classic.

(Word count: 850)

Note: This review is based on fan discussions and personal interpretation of Episode 25. Spoilers have been kept vague to preserve the viewing experience.