Secrets Revealed: The Creative Forces That Shaped 'Celestial Method'

Prepare to rediscover Celestial Method (Sora no Method), the original anime that enchanted audiences upon its October 2014 debut, now revealed through a lens of fascinating behind-the-scenes insights. Celebrated for its ethereal visuals and deeply moving narrative, this series masterfully intertwines themes of memory, unwavering friendship, and the poignant weight of promises both made and forgotten. Beyond its charming character designs and the iconic giant saucer hovering over Lake Kiriya, Celestial Method boasts a rich creative lineage that solidifies its status as a unique gem in the anime landscape.

The story centers on Nonoka Komiya, who returns to her childhood home by Lake Kiriya after seven years, only to find a colossal, mysterious saucer permanently suspended in the sky above the town. She soon encounters Noel, an enigmatic, childlike girl claiming to be the saucer itself, who reveals she has been waiting for Nonoka. This reunion triggers a cascade of forgotten memories and rekindles fractured friendships, compelling Nonoka and her estranged childhood companions to confront their past and the pivotal promise made to Noel years ago. The anime skillfully navigates the delicate balance between youthful innocence and the complexities of growing up, all set against a breathtaking blend of supernatural wonder and everyday life.

The Creative Minds Behind the Magic

A significant highlight is the involvement of Naoki Hisaya, the original concept creator renowned for his work on Key's iconic visual novels like Kanon, Air, and Clannad. Celestial Method marked Hisaya's pioneering venture into original anime not based on an existing Key property, allowing him to infuse the series with his signature emotional depth and intricate storytelling.

Furthermore, this anime holds historical significance as the very first full-length television series produced by Studio 3Hz. Their successful execution of such an emotionally nuanced and visually distinctive debut immediately established Studio 3Hz as a formidable new player, paving the way for their subsequent acclaimed works. The distinctive and expressive character designs by the celebrated artist duo QP:flapper (Tometa Ohara and Koharu Saruta) further enhanced the series, perfectly complementing its gentle, hopeful, and subtly melancholic tone.

Symbolism and Setting

Thematic depth abounds, with the omnipresent saucer serving as a powerful symbol of forgotten promises, childhood dreams, and the enduring impact of past events. Set against the serene, picturesque backdrop of Lake Kiriya, inspired by Hokkaido, the realistic environment beautifully contrasts with the fantastical elements, grounding the magical realism in a relatable human context.

Celestial Method stands as a testament to thoughtful storytelling and artistic dedication, offering a compelling, unforgettable journey through human emotion and connection that continues to resonate with its audience, inviting reflection on the magic of promises and the enduring power of friendship.