Patema Inverted (2013) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Patema Inverted,” released in 2013, is a Japanese animated film directed by Yasuhiro Yoshiura. This sci-fi fantasy movie offers a unique and visually stunning exploration of gravity, perspective, and human connection. Set in a world where two societies exist with opposite gravitational pulls, the film tells a story of love, bravery, and the quest for understanding in a divided world.
Plot Overview
The story follows Patema, a young girl from an underground society where gravity is inverted compared to the surface world. This underground society lives in constant fear of falling into the “sky” above them, which for them is an endless void. Despite the warnings, Patema is an adventurous and curious girl who loves exploring forbidden areas. During one of her explorations, she accidentally falls into a massive pit, only to find herself in the surface world, where gravity is the opposite of what she’s known all her life.
In the surface world, she meets Eiji, a boy who lives under the oppressive rule of a totalitarian government that enforces strict control over its citizens. In this world, people are taught to fear those who fall from the sky, known as “Inverts.” Eiji, however, is different; he’s fascinated by the idea of the Inverts and dreams of flying.
As Patema and Eiji navigate their inverted realities, they uncover the dark secrets of their worlds and must work together to overcome the prejudices and dangers that threaten to keep them apart. Their friendship challenges the status quo and ultimately leads to a better understanding of their worlds and themselves.
Visual Style and Animation
“Patema Inverted” is visually captivating, with a unique art style that effectively conveys the disorienting nature of the film’s dual-gravity world. The animation creatively plays with perspectives, making the viewer experience the same sense of vertigo and wonder that the characters feel. The contrast between the underground society’s dark, confined spaces and the vast, open skies of the surface world is striking and enhances the film’s themes of fear and freedom.
The film’s use of gravity as both a literal and metaphorical element is brilliantly executed. Scenes where Patema and Eiji interact, each with their own gravity, are particularly impressive, showcasing the film’s innovative approach to animation and storytelling.
Themes and Character Development
“Patema Inverted” explores themes of fear, prejudice, and the search for identity in a divided world. The film’s central metaphor of inverted gravity serves as a powerful symbol of how different perspectives can lead to misunderstandings and conflict, but also to growth and connection.
Patema is a strong and determined protagonist, whose curiosity and bravery drive the narrative forward. Her journey from the underground world to the surface parallels her personal growth as she learns to confront her fears and embrace the unknown. Eiji, on the other hand, represents the hope and idealism of youth, challenging the oppressive norms of his society. Together, their relationship symbolizes the possibility of reconciliation and unity between opposing forces.
The film also touches on themes of authoritarianism and control, as seen in the surface world’s rigid society. The government’s propaganda and fear-mongering about the Inverts reflect real-world issues of xenophobia and the dangers of an unchallenged status quo.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting
The soundtrack of “Patema Inverted,” composed by Michiru Oshima, complements the film’s emotional and visual tone. The music enhances the sense of wonder and tension throughout the film, with a mix of orchestral pieces and atmospheric sounds that underscore the story’s dramatic moments.
The voice acting is well-done, with Yukiyo Fujii voicing Patema and Nobuhiko Okamoto as Eiji. Their performances capture the innocence and determination of their characters, making the audience root for their success. The English dub is also solid, though some may prefer the original Japanese audio with subtitles for a more authentic experience.
Where to Watch “Patema Inverted” Online
For those interested in watching Patema Inverted, several streaming options are available in the United States. The film can be accessed through various platforms, both for streaming and for digital purchase or rental.
- Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. The film can also be purchased or rented through Amazon if you prefer to own a digital copy.
- Tubi: Offers “Patema Inverted” for free with ads, making it accessible to viewers who don’t mind commercial interruptions.
- Crunchyroll: Anime enthusiasts can stream the film as part of Crunchyroll’s extensive catalog. This is a great option for those who already have a subscription to the service.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Apple iTunes: The movie is available for purchase or rental in HD on iTunes, providing a high-quality viewing experience on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Similar to iTunes, Google Play offers the film for purchase or rental, allowing for viewing on a variety of devices.
- Vudu: Another platform where the film is available for digital rental or purchase, ensuring a clear and crisp viewing experience.
Conclusion
“Patema Inverted” is a beautifully crafted film that offers a fresh and imaginative take on the science fiction genre. Its compelling story, innovative animation, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-watch for fans of anime and those who enjoy films that challenge the boundaries of reality.
With its focus on the power of perspective and the importance of understanding and connection, Patema Inverted resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, this film offers a unique cinematic experience that is both entertaining and deeply meaningful. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to dive into the inverted world of Patema from the comfort of your own home.
