"Patema Inverted" is a science fiction anime that explores themes of gravity, perspective, and societal division through its unique premise. The story is set in a world where gravity operates differently for two distinct groups of people. One group, known as the Aiga, lives on the surface of the Earth, adhering to the conventional laws of gravity. The other group, the underground-dwelling Inverts, experience gravity in reverse, causing them to fall upward if they venture into the Aiga's world.

The narrative centers on Patema, a young girl from the underground society who accidentally falls into the Aiga's world. There, she encounters Eiji, a surface-dwelling boy who is disillusioned with the rigid and oppressive society he lives in. The Aiga are governed by strict rules and a deep-seated fear of the Inverts, whom they believe are cursed and dangerous. Eiji, however, is curious and open-minded, and he helps Patema navigate the unfamiliar and perilous surface world.

As Patema and Eiji form a bond, they uncover the truth about their societies' histories. The Aiga's fear of the Inverts stems from a catastrophic event in the past that caused the inversion of gravity for some people. This event led to the segregation of the two groups and the establishment of the Aiga's authoritarian regime, which enforces conformity and suppresses dissent. The leaders of the Aiga, particularly a figure named Izamura, perpetuate the fear of the Inverts to maintain control over their population.

Patema and Eiji's journey reveals that the inversion of gravity is not a curse but a result of scientific experimentation gone awry. They learn that cooperation between the Aiga and the Inverts is possible and necessary for the survival of both groups. The story builds toward a climactic confrontation with the Aiga's leaders, who seek to eliminate the Inverts entirely. Through their courage and determination, Patema and Eiji challenge the status quo and work to bridge the divide between their worlds.

The anime delves into the dynamics of power, fear, and prejudice, using the inversion of gravity as a metaphor for differing perspectives and the importance of understanding others. The relationship between Patema and Eiji serves as the emotional core of the story, highlighting themes of trust, empathy, and the willingness to see the world from another's point of view. The narrative concludes with a hopeful resolution, suggesting the possibility of reconciliation and coexistence between the Aiga and the Inverts.