Patema Inverted

Patema Inverted was released in 2013 as a feature-length science fiction anime directed by Yasuhiro Yoshiura. The film originated from Yoshiura's interest in the physics of perspective and the concept of a world where gravity is relative, a theme he previously explored in his shorter works. Produced by the studio Asmik Ace, the project sought to challenge traditional animation staging by forcing the audience to mentally reorient the horizon line throughout the narrative.

The film's visual design is characterized by a stark contrast between the industrial, subterranean tunnels of Aiga and the open, inverted sky of Patema's world. Yoshiura worked closely with character designer Ryusuke Chamiya to ensure that the gravity-defying movements remained coherent even as the frame rotated. Upon its release, the film was praised for its technical ambition and heartfelt storytelling, eventually earning a nomination for the grand prize at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival.