Orb: On the Movements of the Earth – Episode 2 Review

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Orb: On the Movements of the Earth continues to shine in Episode 2, solidifying its position as one of the most captivating anime of the season. Madhouse, renowned for its high-quality animation, brings an intense historical drama to life with beautiful visuals and a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This episode explores the tragic yet inspiring arc of Hubert, a scholar committed to the heliocentric model, and the deepening moral conflict of Rafal, our young protagonist.

Let’s break down the major highlights of Episode 2, from Hubert’s ultimate sacrifice to the ever-looming threat of the Inquisition.

Hubert’s Final Act: A Beacon of Rebellion

Hubert’s character arc culminates in this episode with a heart-wrenching and unforgettable moment. Known for his quiet confidence and intellectual passion, Hubert embodies the archetype of the rebellious scholar, willing to die for the pursuit of truth. His belief in the heliocentric model—a revolutionary idea at the time—challenges both the scientific norms and the religious authority of the era.

When Hubert makes the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to burn his research and himself rather than let the Church control or destroy his work, it’s a powerful moment that resonates throughout the rest of the episode. As Rafal watches, the torch—literally and metaphorically—passes to him. Hubert’s final moments, though tragic, ignite a fire in Rafal to continue his mentor’s work, setting the stage for the next phase of the series. As one fan commented, "Man passed the torch to his successor by turning himself into a literal human torch. May he RIP."

This scene firmly establishes Hubert as one of the most inspiring and badass characters this season has seen. His actions not only show the lengths he’s willing to go to protect his ideas but also serve as a harsh reminder of the dangers scholars faced during this period.

Rafal’s Internal Struggle: The Weight of Knowledge

With Hubert gone, Rafal must now grapple with his own internal conflict. The weight of continuing Hubert's work—now considered heretical by the Church—puts Rafal in a difficult position. Torn between his desire to honor his mentor’s legacy and the fear of facing the same fate, Rafal’s character development takes a significant leap forward in this episode. His growing determination to pursue heliocentrism, even at great personal risk, transforms him from a reluctant participant to a protagonist ready to fight for the truth.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Rafal’s journey is his subtle rebellion. He starts lying to protect his research, a clear sign that he’s fully committed to continuing what Hubert started. As another fan insightfully put it, "I love Rafal slowly beginning to commit more and more sins as he delves deeper into astronomy, becoming a liar to keep his studies growing and hidden." This slow descent into moral ambiguity adds layers to Rafal’s character, making him one to watch as the series progresses.

The Inquisition and the Threat of Nowak

If Hubert is the intellectual heart of Orb, Nowak is its menacing force. Voiced masterfully by Kenjiro Tsuda, Nowak represents the ruthless arm of the Church, tasked with rooting out heresy and punishing those who defy the established order. His calm, calculating demeanor makes him all the more terrifying, especially in the scene where a young boy stumbles upon him torturing the child’s father. It’s a disturbing moment that adds to the growing sense of danger surrounding Rafal and anyone connected to Hubert’s research.

One fan cleverly compared Nowak to Christoph Waltz's character in Inglourious Basterds, noting the "charismatic yet sinister energy" that both characters exude. Nowak’s presence casts a long shadow over the episode, reminding the audience that the consequences of Rafal’s actions could be deadly.

The Stellar Animation: A Visual and Emotional Feast

Once again, Madhouse’s animation team knocks it out of the park. The starry skies, which play a crucial symbolic role in the series, are beautifully rendered, adding a sense of wonder to Rafal’s studies. The dark, oppressive atmosphere is contrasted with the serene beauty of the night sky, which serves as a symbol of the knowledge that Hubert and Rafal so desperately seek.

The transition to the opening theme, where Rafal looks down at his table before locking eyes with the audience, was particularly well-executed. This seamless blend of story and music elevates the emotional impact of the episode, reinforcing the themes of discovery and defiance.

The OP, which was directed by Tooru Iwazawa, has also been highly praised for its stunning visuals and composition. It starts slow but quickly builds momentum, mirroring the tension and excitement of the show itself. As one fan put it, "For a few seconds, I was like 'meh', but then it really starts with the 'dan dan dan.'" The OP’s artistry helps set the tone for the series, building anticipation for what’s to come.

Rafal’s Next Steps: A Scholar's Journey

With Hubert gone, Rafal now faces the immense pressure of carrying on the research alone. He’s already begun to hide his true intentions from those around him, and the stakes are only getting higher. Will he be able to protect his research while avoiding the ever-watchful eye of Nowak and the Church?

As the episode closes, it’s clear that Rafal’s journey is far from over. The show’s ability to mix historical drama with intense character moments makes it one of the most compelling offerings of the season. It’s not just a story about science or religion—it’s a story about the human condition, the desire for knowledge, and the lengths one will go to protect it.

Final Thoughts: A Powerful Second Episode

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth has already made a lasting impression with its first two episodes. Episode 2 cements Hubert as one of the most memorable characters in the series, and Rafal’s growing resolve promises plenty of emotional depth in future episodes.

With its stunning visuals, well-developed characters, and intense narrative, Orb is quickly becoming a must-watch for anime fans looking for something deeper and more thought-provoking. If the series continues at this pace, it’s sure to be one of the standout anime of the year.

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