Land of the Lustrous

In a distant future, a fractured world scarred by meteors is patrolled by crystalline beings called Gems. The Lunarians, a predatory species, strike to shatter their bodies and fashion themselves from Gems remains. Phosphophyllite, or Phos, is one of the youngest and most fragile Gems, eager to play a real part in the war. Yet Phos is assigned a quiet, unusual task to collect an encyclopedia that records their world, a duty far from heroic. When Phos meets Cinnabar, a highly intelligent Gem whose body poisons whatever touches it, a new spark ignites. Seeing how lonely Cinnabar is, Phos wonders if a mundane assignment can become a meaningful path for both.

Produced as a 2017 TV anime by Studio Orange, Land of the Lustrous stems from Haruko Ichikawa and Toshiya Ohno and adapts the Houseki no Kuni manga. The production emphasizes tactile lighting and a clean CGI look that suits the gem world.

Box office data is not applicable to a TV series. Viewership and streaming reception are the usual measures of its reach.

Its luminous CGI creates a jewel like world that invites close study rather than pure spectacle. The gemstone designs mirror personality and fate, inviting viewers to read symbolism into every scene. The look sparked wider conversations about the use of CG in anime, pushing studios to explore more expressive movements and lighting. It also helped broaden the audience for fantasy stories told through crystalline aesthetics and unique character dynamics.

Critics praised the atmosphere and character development while highlighting themes of identity and purpose amid conflict. Phos and their companions wrestle with growth, responsibility and the costs of fighting. The blend of mystery, action and introspection gives Land of the Lustrous a contemplative tone that lingers after each episode, earning it a devoted fan base and occasional festival showings. Some reviews noted the series' courage to evolve its cast as the story unfolds.