Before watching this anime, I'd already read 8 volumes of the manga so I knew what I'd be getting myself into. Actually, I was reluctant to even watch the anime because I thought I'd clearly remember what would happen so there wouldn't be a point. However, after watching the first episode I immediately knew that wouldn't be the case and that it is definitely worth watching.

I think having read the manga, drawing parallels is inevitable and I would certainly say that I prefer the anime. The impact of voice acting, movement and colours cannot be overlooked and for a show of this nature, I feel that it makes a huge difference. The show creates this almost sombre or sentimental ambience at times which I think mostly comes from the dark blue and grey colours of the sky throughout the anime. Also, the subject matter of stargazing late at night and trying to fall asleep as well as experimenting with lo-fi soundtracks (which is, from my experience, really uncommon in anime) creates this really relaxing tone and since I watched most of these episodes whilst eating eggs after waking up in the morning it's a really peaceful experience. Overall, I think the atmosphere it creates is one if not its greatest strengths and makes it stand out from other anime.

The romantic dynamic is really mature and down-to-earth, in my opinion, by showing a realistic and slow-paced development of connection. The main two characters at first have mutual insomnia, which brings them together often and then progresses to them forming the astronomy club, which makes them share a hobby and before you know it they're hanging out with each other all the time. Unlike other cliche romances in anime, there is no dramatic plot twist or eccentric premise, instead, they slowly grow comfortable with each other and enjoy each other's company. They also talk to each other about their worries and are simply there for support in their times of need. From my understanding, this is how love between two people normally forms between people and makes this anime a breath of fresh air among all the flashy and bizarre romances within the medium. Truthfully, this is one of the best romances I've seen in a while because there is no need for drama or romantic rivals to "spice things up". After all, the romance is so genuine and heartwarming by itself.

The show also shines when creating what I like to call a "moment". When the music and visuals mix and the story reaches an important climax and in that moment you're left in awe and completely absorbed in the experience. The anime uses its dreamy and cosmic imagery, relaxing and immersive score and it's engaging whilst realistic romance to pull you in for satisfying moments that make you wide-eyed if only for a few seconds. I felt these "moments" when they were on the beach during the school trip and falling asleep, when they were talking in the rain under the bus stop and in the final episode at the Mawaki site where he told her he loves her under the moving stars, to give a few examples.

The reasons why I have not rated it higher are that I felt that there were times when the art & animation stood out as jarringly low quality if only for a few seconds, the side characters could have been touched upon a little more and because it's not a complete experience since the story has not finished, so there is no ultimate climax, catharsis and conclusion at the moment.

Overall, however, I think the anime provides a very unique experience with a standout atmosphere and realistic romance although I can see how it wouldn't be for everyone. It's one of the anime that surprised me this season and should a second season be released, I will most certainly be watching it.