Everything We Know About the Upcoming Sci-Fi Anime Moonrise

Mar 27

Netflix has just dropped an electrifying new trailer for its upcoming anime series, Moonrise, and it’s already teasing an epic sci-fi adventure.

Set in a future where Earth and the moon are locked in a bitter conflict, this sci-fi story promises to deliver a thrilling story of war, revenge, and unexpected alliances. With a powerhouse team behind it—including the director of Attack on Titan and the character designer of Full Metal Alchemist—Moonrise is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime releases of 2025.

A Futuristic War Between Earth and the Moon

Moonrise takes place in the year TS 2XXX AD, in a world governed by an international AI network called Sapientia. This AI ensures a “relaxed world government” on Earth, maintaining peace and stability. However, its “moon reclamation project” sends pollutants and criminals to the moon, transforming it into an oppressed colony. The resulting tension ignites a War of Independence, with the moon’s rebels fighting against Earth’s controlling regime.

The story centers on Jacob “Jack” Shadow, a young man from Earth who joins the army seeking revenge after his friend is killed in a terrorist attack by the moon’s rebels. Assigned as a scout on the moon, Jack’s mission becomes personal when he learns that the rebel leader is his former best friend, Phil Ashe. This betrayal fuels a narrative that aims to blend large-scale conflict with emotional stakes, exploring themes of loyalty, justice, and vengeance.

A Dream Team of Anime Creators

The creative talent behind Moonrise is another major draw. The series is directed by Masashi Koizuka, known for helming Attack on Titan seasons 2 and 3. Koizuka has called Moonrise WIT Studio’s first space opera and their first original collaboration with Netflix, noting the “excitement and madness” that went into its creation. The character designs are by Hiromu Arakawa, the iconic creator of Full Metal Alchemist, who also makes her mark by bringing her distinctive style to the series visuals.

Animation is handled by WIT Studio, a powerhouse known for Attack on Titan, Vinland Saga, and Spy x Family. The script is penned by Tow Ubukata, based on his original novel. While Ubukata’s past work (Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Psycho-Pass) has a mixed reputation, the strength of the team around him suggests Moonrise could be another standout project.

The Trailer: A Glimpse of Epic Battles and Emotional Stakes

Released in March 2025, the latest Moonrise trailer offers a stunning preview of the series. It showcases WIT Studio’s signature high-quality animation, with fluid, dynamic camerawork highlighting intense space battles and hand-to-hand combat.

Visually, Moonrise blends sci-fi with hints of magic, featuring futuristic tech alongside fistfights and shootouts. Sign us up!