Celestial Method

Celestial Method is a fascinating Japanese anime series that first premiered in 2014 and was broadcasted by Anime Network. The series takes place in the quintessentially beautiful town of Lake Kiriya City, which serves as a tranquil backdrop for the unfolding drama, surprises and emotional moments that characterize the series. The narrative introduces us to the fascinating world of five childhood friends, who are all connected deeply by a promise that they made five years before the show begins.

The protagonist of the series is a junior high school girl named Nonoka Komiya who, with her father, decides to move back to Lake Kiriya City after being away for several years. Upon her return, she begins to notice several mysteries that pique her interest. Notably, a massive blue saucer hovers in the sky above the city, an ominous structure that adds a sci-fi twist to the otherwise mundane town. It appears that this celestial object has been present for five years, ever since Nonoka and her friends made their promise.

As Nonoka tries to settle into her new life back in Lake Kiriya City, she is confronted by surreal experiences and meets a strange girl named Noel. The blue-eyed Noel possesses otherworldly features and a charm that's infectious, but she also carries a certain mystery about her, something that Nonoka becomes determined to unravel. Nonoka's interactions with Noel open up a series of complex emotions, as she remembers scenes from her past related to her childhood friends and the big blue saucer.

Commencing on a journey full of emotional twists and turns, the relationship between Nonoka, Noel and their friends bring forth the primary themes of Celestial Method. Themes of friendship, love, guilt, reconciliation, and the power of promises form the core of this anime. Each episode unfolds situations where the characters struggle with their personal feelings and how they impact their growing relationships.

As the storyline progresses, each of the five friends begins to react differently to the presence of Nonoka and the long-forgotten promise. Among these friends are Yuzuki, Shione, and Koharu, each with distinct personalities and intricate backgrounds that add layers to the story. These reactions provide an interesting mix of emotional drama, occasional hints of lightheartedness, and intrigue that keep viewers engaged.

The series mixes the aesthetics of science fiction with the simplicity of everyday life, creating a unique blend that serves as a refreshing escape from stereotypical anime genres. It perfectly balances the dramatic and emotional weight with visually stunning animation and a calming colour palette. The uniqueness of the blue saucer, the charm of the city’s landscape, and the character designs give the show a unique visual language, making the viewing experience captivating.

Moreover, the soundtrack and background scores of Celestial Method perfectly encapsulate the emotive and evocative nature of the series. The blend of acoustic and orchestral compositions complement the distinct narrative and thematic elements. The opening theme, Stargazers, performed by Larval Stage Planning, and the ending theme, Hoshikuzu no Interlude, performed by fhána, add extra layers of sentiment to the narrative.

In summary, Celestial Method is a beautifully crafted anime series that transcends the typical tropes of the genre to explore deep, emotionally-charged themes set against the enchanting backdrop of Lake Kiriya City and the mystery of the enigmatic blue saucer. As viewers, we are led on a charming journey filled with nostalgia, friendship, self-discovery, and redemption. Along the way, the characters, with their personalized narratives, contribute to understanding the complexities of feelings and human relationships.

For all fans of melancholic, life-driven narratives interspersed with science fiction elements, Celestial Method from Anime Network offers a poignant portrayal of relatable characters, fantastical elements, and an emotional journey. Enjoy the thought-provoking blend of reality and fantasy, and immerse yourself in the celestial mystery that describes so much more than just a cute anime series. This gloriously animated series might leave you with a sweet ache of nostalgia, a warm smile, or a curious thought - it surely is worth the watch.