In a world where gravity has changed, the lives of a young girl named Patema and a young boy called Age (Eiji) are explored - whatever falls in Patema's world goes up in Age's and of course whatever falls in Age's world goes up in Patema's. Together they have to traverse a multitude of obstacles as they discover hidden secrets and avoid near-death moments.
While the setting is very refreshing, the same cannot be entirely said for the plot. In its rawest form, the film tackles a lot of the same thematic problems in society that have been portrayed in many other films - differences in religion, racism and beliefs. On top of that the use of 'forbidden love' isn't something we haven't seen before either. However, using the writers own unique world of physics, one cannot argue that this is still an effective way to show the ideas without having the same settings shoved down our throats.
The best parts of the film was definitely the beginning to the middle portion, 'setting up' the unique world. With a simple 'flip' of the camera, a new perspective of the story takes place and your attention will be constantly glued to the screen when this happens. But, as it reached towards the end - it felt rushed and clichés started to become more obvious. What you get is a plot that tries to flow consistently with missing parts in between - something along the lines of: episode 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 15, 20, 26 etc. Not saying you'll lose your interest, just that it becomes... somewhat... incomplete. This is probably due to the short run time - maybe an extra 30 minutes would've supplemented the gaps - it isn't a huge problem, but some of the missing parts may come down to self interpretation in order for you to accept the events that unfold.
However, that's about the biggest gripe I had with the film. Perhaps the deeper themes and plots may not be the strongest points, but what makes the film great is 'how' it explores these two vastly different worlds and I can assure you that it doesn't disappoint.
We start off by following the simple lives of these two youngsters and what they feel upon discovering each others inverted world. There's a real down to earth sense and it's portrayed very naturally. There's chemistry between Patema and Age, their relationship goes through a believable development and their motivations and reasons for doing things feel realistic and instinctive - it's where this anime has substance. Granted they won't necessarily be characters you'll love but you'll enjoy the actions and interactions they have to go through.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the supporting casts - relying more on stereotypes in which we've seen countless times. The word clichéd sums it up nicely. The bad guys are bad and the good guys are good, you never truly come to terms as to what their motivations are or why they're doing it. They aren't the main focus of this premise so don't think too much, the film will be more enjoyable if you just focus your attention solely on Patema and Age.
Now we reach the presentation part, the character designs don't stand out too much. Sticking more to the 'down to earth' and simplistic drawings but it works and probably succeeds a lot better had it been completely detailed instead. However, does Sakasama no Patema do a good job in painting this fictional world? Hell yes!
The budget was obviously not really an issue since the detail in a lot of the places definitely shine - I'm talking about the scenery. The film separates the two worlds of Patema and Age very well - one being a worn-down, dark, isolated underground and the other being a bright, vivid and fresh outer world. The colour palette used to differentiate these two worlds help focus on the exploration aspect. Also, I think this contrast plays a pivotal role within the film - while one world may seem cramped and tight spaced; this world is the one with more freedom amongst the people while the supposed independent society of the people on the surface are suppressed. The animation has definitely complimented the overall atmosphere and mood of these opposite worlds and without the quality of the animation it just wouldn't feel... right.
I have to make one quick mention about the detail of the sky as well - the feeling of fear definitely shows on each and individual characters. Never has the idea of falling into the sky been so terrifying - the psychological implications can be quite daunting if you're scared of heights. The combination of 'flipping' the camera and drawings of the sky harmonise well together to create this feeling. I don't believe there's any other anime which make use of it so well so treasure these moments well.
Subtle, is how I would describe the overall music. Unless you really pay attention, the music doesn't stand out too much, kinda like listening to the pouring rain outside of your window. However it's suitable within the context of the film, not really too much to complain. The voice actors/actresses have nicely brought the characters to life; especially the two main casts. They genuinely sound like their age and how they would react to this unexplored setting.
I feel like I've said the film is about exploration too many times. But seriously, the film is most definitely worth watching for only that purpose and if my interpretation in this review hasn't shown that then I don't know what will :P
It's a really good story, it doesn't waste its potential which I'm glad. Granted it could've been better had it received a longer run-time. I'm not gonna say "if you like shows such as this or this you'll like Sakasama no Patema". I'm gonna just tell you to go watch it. While it isn't perfect, it's one of the rare shows that you could show to any audience (even your parents who don't watch anime) and they'll still find something to like about it. It's comparable to 'Inception', 'The Matrix', or 'A Clockwork Orange' - the initial concept is simply too interesting to pass up, it'll be a shame if you skip on it without stepping into the world of 'Sakasama no Patema'.
ABRIDGED RATING:
Story 8 - Great concept, doesn't waste its potential but could explore the deeper themes if the film was given more time.
Characters 7 - The main characters Age and Patema are nicely introduced and developed, supporting cast are clichéd
Animation 8 - Excellent work with the camera angles. Character designs are down to earth and simple. Different environments portrayed nicely - especially the sky
Sound 6 - Music is suitable in the context of this film. Doesn't particularly stand out unless you pay attention. Subtle is the best word to describe it. Voice actors/actresses portray realistic characters.
Enjoyment 8 - Pleasantly surprised at the original concept, main characters are likable. I can feel the chemistry between them.
Overall 7.4 - Good film, definitely worth checking out.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi)
The Cat Returns (Neko no Ongaeshi)
