What Planetes did was focus on a possible culture that could arise from humanities expansion into space, and there were several points that were made throughout the show that weren't necessarily part of the main storyline. It's definitely a weird way to approach a show, but it worked. To top it off, you can't have a show based on humanity without exploring what exactly it means to be human (you know, that stuff). It sounds corny, but it was actually a very nice change of pace. There's also a little romance which is definitely a part of the show, but like anything else in Planetes, it was done a bit differently.
So for all that happens in Planetes, the best I can respond with is "A group of people cleaning space trash" (again, this is considering the fact that there are bigger events that I can't go into without spoiling it). Everything else that happens is best experienced rather than explained, not that I could begin to know where to start. It's not that it's complex, but it was so shockingly normal. Again, I don't say that implying it was a bad thing, I actually really enjoyed it.
This is absolutely a show that lives for its characters. Their stories and how they interact with each other and any given situation is the backbone of Planetes, and it was done very well. In the beginning, I can't say I was fond of any of them. I found them slightly annoying and wish they'd just shut up and get back to cleaning garbage, and I was slightly disappointed with how it was going. After a while, the chemistry starts to stabilize, and I started liking them one after another, even the most insufferable ones started showing their good sides. By the end I can't say I disliked any of them honestly. The story unfolds in a way that makes you see everyone's side, which was a really great experience. The character development in this show gets a solid 10 from me.
Otherwise, I don't feel comfortable rating anything else, the other aspects of this show were strong, but nothing I can mention with any level of substance behind it. If Planetes is on your mind as the next show to watch, absolutely go for it. I'm glad I own it, and I look forward to re-watching it someday.
