Stars Align

Watch Stars Align

  • TV-PG
  • 2019
  • 1 Season
  • 7.3  (648)

Stars Align is a sports anime series that centers around the middle school boys' soft tennis club of Kanagawa Junior High School. The show follows the story of Maki Katsuragi, a talented but troubled boy who is reluctantly recruited into the team by the club captain, Toma Shinjo. Maki has a difficult family background, and he struggles with his emotions as a result. However, his natural talent for the sport could take the team to the top, and that's something that Toma recognizes.

The show is a coming-of-age story that explores the themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery. The characters are well-crafted, and they each have their unique personalities and struggles. Toma, the captain of the soft tennis club, is an optimistic and determined boy who believes in the potential of his team. He is always looking for ways to improve himself and his team, even if it means challenging their competitors to a match. Maki, on the other hand, is a reserved and introverted boy who keeps to himself. He struggles with his relationship with his mother and his father, who is absent most of the time. The two boys are likable but different, and their personalities clash at times.

The show also introduces other characters that are part of the soft tennis club, including Rintaro Futsu, a charismatic boy who excels at the sport but lacks communication skills, and Yuta Asuka, a shy and hardworking boy who is always eager to help his teammates. The team dynamics are well-conceived, and they offer a satisfying and realistic portrayal of middle school boys.

Stars Align is not just another sports anime; it covers some heavy and thought-provoking topics such as domestic violence, child abuse, and gender identity. The show portrays the struggles of Maki's mother, who is a victim of domestic violence, and how it affects Maki's self-image and mental health. It also depicts the life of Toma's younger sister, who is exploring her gender identity, and how it affects her relationship with her family and friends. The show is a poignant and sensitive depiction of these challenging issues, and it doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life.

The animation quality of Stars Align is impressive, with minute details of the characters' expressions and movements meticulously crafted. The art and character design are well-done, and the use of bright colors creates a lively and engaging atmosphere that immerses the viewer in the show. The sound design is also excellent, with the opening and ending themes exceptionally catchy and fitting for the show's tone.

Overall, Stars Align is a must-watch for fans of sports anime, or anyone who enjoys a coming-of-age story that deals with serious themes. The characters are likable, and the plot is engaging, making it an enjoyable and rewarding viewing experience. The show will tug at your heartstrings, and leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled.

Stars Align is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between October 10, 2019 and on TBS

Stars Align
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Seasons
Episode 12
12. Episode 12
December 26, 2019
Win or lose, Toma and Maki are having a blast playing the national champs. The underdogs get support from the crowd as everyone cheers them on.
Episode 11
11. Episode 11
December 19, 2019
With under three months of play under his belt, Maki faces a crowd-favorite opponent with his doubles partner Toma in the club's one last chance to stay alive.
Episode 10
10. Episode 10
December 12, 2019
The day of the tournament has come at last and it's time to find out if everyone's hard work can win them a single match to save the club from getting disbanded.
Episode 9
9. Episode 9
December 5, 2019
On the day Shingo's little sister comes to watch him play at the school, not only does soft tennis get put on hold, but dreams are crushed as well.
Episode 8
8. Episode 8
November 28, 2019
Once the club finds out their first opponent in the tournament bracket, they're forced to use unconventional tactics to scout out an elite player they'll be facing.
Episode 7
7. Episode 7
November 21, 2019
Maki and Toma face off in an intense match against Misaki's ace pair. The club is later surprised by their advisor who suggests they skip practice and take a little break.
Episode 6
6. Episode 6
November 14, 2019
The soft tennis club takes on Misaki Academy in a series of practice matches, but they'll have to change things up if they want to stand a chance.
Episode 5
5. Episode 5
November 7, 2019
When pressed for the truth, Maki confides in Toma and they take a stand against Kenji. Later, Rintaro admits that he's been a burden in more ways than one.
Episode 4
4. Episode 4
October 31, 2019
The new pairs see how they fare in a series of practice matches against Toma and Maki. Meanwhile, their advisor reveals a plan in store to help out.
Episode 3
3. Episode 3
October 24, 2019
Toma's frustration with the team boils over after pairing up with Maki for a few practice games. Maki later learns about Itsuki's family situation after he lashes out at a bully.
Episode 2
2. Episode 2
October 17, 2019
Maki's first day of practice is not only brutal, but eye-opening for the entire team. Tensions rise when he calls out the others for their lack of effort.
Episode 1
1. Episode 1
October 10, 2019
When an old friend moves into town, team captain Toma has a plan to save the boys' soft tennis club that's in danger of being disbanded for how awful it is.
Description
Where to Watch Stars Align
Stars Align is available for streaming on the TBS website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Stars Align on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hulu, Google Play and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    October 10, 2019
  • IMDB Rating
    7.3  (648)