Just finished Madoka, so here’s my Letterboxd review (plus some additional thoughts)
Once again, no theories. Raw, general thoughts. The only new thing I’ll say is I’m going to see if I can get the 4K set of the movies (Recaps + Rebellion) and just watch Rebellion with it. Thoughts I didn’t apply to my original Letterboxed review will look like this.
There are slight spoilers in the review, so be cautious.
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That was one HELL of a joyride.
From beginning to end, this little anime that could dared to be what many didn’t do very much around that time. Take risks. A dark, deceitful, albeit beautifully told tale of the deconstruction of “Magical Girls” and how we perceive it as a whole. There’s a sort of elegance that gives it that much level of “oomph”. It allows us to think and analyze its meaning in such a way that it could make EVANGELION look like its older sister. The story itself is pretty simple on the outside, >!but gets quickly complex by the second half alongside the intensity of the content itself.!<* *While I didn’t end up crying at the end, there was a good amount of emotion, and it does test you in a few scenes. Hell, if you pay attention to the sound design and the editing, you’ll begin to notice how things play out.
Characters are complex, yet at the same time, so simple. You understand their motive and goals, even if they seem far-fetched and foolish in the long run. We, with the benefit of hindsight know that. To the characters though, >!it’s a dream to have a wish come true!<*. On top of that, they’re kids.* Their personalities are diverse and recognizable as well. A hard thing to do when you only have 12 episodes and the length of your typical mini-series. Madoka is the kind-hearted, optimistic one. While someone like Homura is stern, but not to the point of her being cold. She’s still likable on the level of the former. Keybey is… something else entirely. I won’t spoil it, but do pay attention to how he’s framed in a few instances. You’ll know right away.
The animation is the star of the show however. Especially during the “Labyrinth” sequences. How different art styles are used, from outline-less to Terry Gilliam styled cut-out animation. It allows the anime to feel distinct from the others outside of its twisted nature. Outside of that, while most of it is standard TV animation, there are moments where it truly shines, like the fight scenes for example. Dare I say, it’s pretty cool in of itself to try out something that can just “wow” you, and Shaft certainly were onto something with it.
As if you couldn’t tell, I had a great time with this. Such an interesting show that really got me hooked. I understand why it’s considered one of the anime greats of the 21st century. Can’t wait to watch Rebellion.
Best episodes go to 3, 9, 10 and 11.
Giving this a 9/10 mostly because the first two episodes are a bit cookie-cutter in nature, but they’re not bad. They introduce the story and characters pretty well. >!Plus, both of them gives us some EXTREMELY subtle insight on what’s going to happen in the other episodes without being upfront.!< I just don’t think it stands amongst the rest of the series, and that’s a compliment. Just a nitpick though.
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With that outta the way, what are your thoughts? I’d like to hear them.
Edit: Removed the comment on the fan-service. Just thought that was unnecessary.