Believing in yourself is everybody's magic." Despite a few indiscriminate missteps in the final third of Season 2, Little Witch Academia ends on a more than satisfactory note. Above all else, it succeeds in bringing all of its characters together for the final extravaganza in which the Triskelion is finally discovered and the true enemy is revealed and, rapidly, destroyed. Thankfully, in light of my criticism for some of the character development, Akko gets a well-deserved transformation in the final episodes as she finally understands the true meaning of her destiny. Corny as it is, kids will certainly enjoy the empowerment of the protagonists.
The final chapters are set up well as Chariot, in the guise of Professor Ursula, rediscovers her past with Croix and reveals all her secrets to her favourite student, Akko. In an emotional revelation, we are given, with exquisite surprise, the context of why Chariot decided to hide her identity. It seems that Chariot's performances to the masses caused the onlookers to lose their magical powers, and sadly this is why Akko struggles to uncover her talent. The cliffhanger is an emotional climax, as not only does Akko feel like her heroine and entire life potential has been decimated, but Croix takes the upper hand with her new technology to use Human beings as the vessel for unlocking the Triskelion. The following episode is a great build-up for the finale as Akko's friends and colleagues try to locate her after the terrible truth was introduced. Yesterday is a great way to quickly and successively reassert our knowledge of how each character reacts to Akko and her gradual development into the magical world. I particularly admire Diana's development as she now sees Akko's kindness towards her during her harrowing time at her family's home as the beginning of their thriving friendship. It's also helpful to get a full, chronological depiction of Chariot and Croix's relationship during their early years at Luna Nova. The Road to Arcturus sets up an epic conclusion, certainly, but perhaps it is overwhelmed by the revelations that have come shortly before it. Seeing a number of characters in one place and returning to the Forbidden Forest from the first episode is exciting, but the resolution of Croix's quest for the Triskelion loses its way in the grandure of that moment. However, it seems the technology that Croix devised in finding that Rod becomes independent and starts to use the negativity of the local population as fuel to create a makeshift weapon for mass destruction. As crazy as it sounds, this was the cliffhanger we were given for the penultimate episode. Indeed, this is where I divulge my disappointment as Little Witch Academia turns to a completely different show in order to incorporate a conclusion for Andrew who has seemingly spent the last four episode trying to return Akko's hat. Whilst a love story doesn't come into fruition, Andrew's political connection is used as the motif for the incoming disaster. On a positive note, I liked the fact that references from previous episodes make an appearance including the Shooting Star, which helped Akko, Diana and all their friends remove the danger. The final moment of the finale are also very heartfelt as Croix promises to help Ursula following her encounter with the Wagandea curse, and, more importantly, Akko succeeds in flying her broom for the first time. If this is to be the end of this quaint little anime series, then it would be a shame. The potential is astounding with the premise and the setup provided throughout, but the finale of season two lacks the general charm and wit that was present in many other episodes. Whilst most of the support plots were given answers, there's a lot more to elaborate on and perhaps more histories to uncover for Akko and her friends to investigate. Apart from Diana Cavendish, the supporting characters have had barely any background extrapolation and so there's definitely more room for improvement. Otherwise, there's a lot to enjoy on the uneven two seasons so far. Chapter 22: Things We Said Today - 8.5/10 Chapter 23: Yesterday - 8/10 Chapter 24: A Road to Arcturus - 8/10 Chapter 25: Changing at the Edge of the World - 7.5/10
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Akko is your last chance for your dream." This show is finally succeeding in incorporating the emotional resonance that is so needs to emulate its messages. As Akko appears to be quickly ploughing through her discoveries for the seven words, she joins fellow characters on heartfelt adventures into rediscovery that help to redefine her character as someone who is determined, caring and ultimately resilient. Her patience and caution may still need a bit of work, but by the twenty-first episode of the show, she has finally learnt that hardest lessons of her life about gaining experience before action.
The first episode of this part seeks to cover the character of Constanze. Whilst she has a certain lovable quality, her true appreciation comes for her talent in construction. The episode successfully establishes the newly-founded relationship between Akko and Constanze, one where they understand each other to the hilt, but its story falters in some areas. The Wild Hunt is not very well fleshed out, meaning that it's difficult to understand how it works and what aim there is in dealing with ghosts. The fact that Akko and Constanze fight and clear up ghosts from a flying ship makes it all seem a bit ridiculous. Whilst Croix's machinations appear to be reaching new heights of malevolence, her interference at this point, doesn't have much impact. The true masterstroke of this part is Diana Cavendish's involvement, easily my favourite character. Her double-episode at the Cavendish mansion makes for a brilliant overarching story in which we not only get a chance to understand Diana's past a little bit better, but Akko and Andrew get a chance to work together, setting up what appears to be a perfectly understandable romantic relationship. Diana's past, as it would be expected, is actually quite sad. She has lost both her parents, and has effectively been the patriarch of the family since then, balancing her education with her position as head of the family and consistently dealing with her problematic aunt and cousins. The premise and reasons for Diana's return to home may be far-fetched, but the story that unfurls is one with great ambition. Plus, we get to see Diana's weakness, in that she is not completely infallible. It takes the joint efforts of Akko and Diana to thwart the meddlesome aunt. The fact that Diana decides to return to Luna Nova after establishing herself as the definite leader of the family makes Akko's resolve seem more meaningful, and that's important for the integrity of this show. The final episode of this part goes further into the lore of the show. Now with only two words left to unlock the Grand Triskelion, Akko appears to be on the verge of reaching her aim. The episode does well to further explain the relationship between Chariot and Croix, one in which we come to understand that Croix's resentment is founded in her jealousy for not acquiring the Shiny Rod. Deftly, this episode succeeds in gaining emotional resonance in that Professor Ursula (aka Shiny Chariot) attempts to protect Akko, her resolve based on the compliments that Akko has stated for her idol - Chariot herself. The moment they share at the end is incredibly poignant and one that could finally compel Ursula to reveal her true identity to the young student. Whatever Croix is planning, it appears to be taking shape. The opening involving Andrew and his friend certainly points to troubling times ahead. Indeed the show has managed to balance character development while also pulling in the final strings for the incoming ending. Hopefully we'll get more exposition concerning Chariot and Croix's earlier lives and what finally drove them from being friends to the current enemies that they are. I also notice that Akko appears to be spending less and less time with her closest friends, Lotte and Sucy, which could be catastrophic as she will need her friends to inject some caution into her life. Stanship Take Off! - 7.5/10 Cavendish - 8/10 Intellect and Sensibility - 8/10 Discipline - 8.5/10 Things are never boring with you around." As we're introduced to a new main character, things already feel different in this show. The eminent witch, Croix, brings about a new age at Luna Nova where the students don't need to rely on the Sorcerer's Stone any longer, but have an endless supply of magic through Croix's new inventions. Naturally, this seems like an invasive and unconventional way to start your teaching career in the Academy, and a number of fellow teachers seem just a little bit perturbed by the changes - Professor Ursula more than most. Indeed, this episode sets up a new rivalry - one in which Akko could finally be told the truth about Chariot. Croix herself is a fascinating character, and one so caught up in her own mystery, can easily be seen as the villain of the show - someone who is manipulating magic in order to gain allies. Her manipulation of Akko in Chariot of Fire was particularly malevolent as she finds out all about Chariot's so-called Shiny Rod.
Whilst Akko may finally be finding a way into the good books of the Academy, her temperament has not improved. In fact, it's detrimental to the progression of the story. As she continues to find the 'seven words' that unlock the Shiny Rod, she never ceases to amaze me how impatient, self-centered and unappreciative she is of the world around her. Her close friends Suzy and Lotte often joke about her character flaws, but when it's this obvious, it's not that funny. Her complete lack of perception even puts her in danger as she willingly allows Professor Croix to analyse the Shiny Rod - although in this respect she could be perhaps forgiven. Regardless of Akko, Chariot of Fire is definitive for one reason - it introduces the true Shiny Chariot, as she attempts to save the one student who has taken a liking in her, and the one who has the greatest potential to wield the Shiny Rod in the future. Her great powers are demonstrated as she faces off against Croix's menacing stone legions that attempt to repel her from the top of the tower, where Akko is being kept for analysis. The enmity between the two characters is clear, but what yet isn't clear is their history and how it came about they went in practically opposing directions. The interesting part of their early lives is that whilst Croix was the child prodigy in the past, Chariot was the one who forever stood side by side with natural magic. Pohjola's Ordeal is a throwaway episode, in its truest sense. Whilst it does set up the fourth word to be spoken to unlock the Rod, it does nothing else either to develop its characters or entertain its audience. I struggle to understand Akko's luck in being able to concoct a cure for the ailment that befell Suzy, Lotte and her family. Her capabilities as a cock seem to vastly outweigh her capabilities as a witch, and yet that doesn't seem like a very meaningful trait for her character. Despite everything that she does in saving her friends, she still comes out the other end as someone without the consideration for patience or seriousness. Indeed, despite being a slight back story to Lotte's life, the story is a wild gamble that goes horribly incoherent by the middle section, to the point where I question whether it is the same show. Perhaps one to avoid, especially considering it has no standing within the overarching plot. The fourth episode of the season, however, has more significance. Akko and Amanda seem to be brewing a friendship for the ages, as they head out in search of the Holy Grail, something that Akko believes to have some hidden connection to the Shiny Rod. The episode is clever in that it balances a number of stories all at once; introducing us to Louis, an up jumped son of a rich politician who learns the meaning of justice, reintroducing Andrew, the handsome boy who has grown affection for Akko in their previous adventures, and gives Amanda a chance to understand why leaving Luna Nova would be such a wasted opportunity in her life. The episode is jam-packed full of action, and even gives us a glimpse inside the prestigious all-boys school as we learn about its traditions and history. However, I must point out the choice of costumes during the supposed witch trial, as it does hold racial connotations as parodies of the KKK. Needless to say, the episode ends on a positive note, and a newly-formed friendship. A disjointed opening to Season 2, but not without immense potential. As we move away from the classroom more and more, we start to understand and appreciate the larger world at hand, one which is filled with more looming adventures for Akko and her friends. I would like to see more content for Diana Cavendish, however, as we see how she adapts to the form of magical power that Croix has introduced. Her family's mention in the fourth episode perhaps indicated trouble ahead, but I anxiously await its arrival shortly. 1. New Age Magic - 7.5/10 2. Chariot of Fire - 8/10 3. Pohjola's Ordeal - 5.5/10 4. Amanda O'Neill and the Holy Grail - 8/10 Now, she has spoken the second word as well. Remember, together the seven words of Arcturus - those remaining must be spoken. Chariot...you must guide her." In the last episodes in the first half of the series, Little Witch Academia decides to finally up the explanation and emotions, but it still hasn't reached its pinnacle yet. There are some lovely moments, and highlights of revelation, but we are still ultimately as blind as Akko as to her destiny and her overall skill in magic. She may have wowed the judges and her fellow Luna Nova classmates at the Samhain Magic Festival, but her capabilities are still very much in question as we wait for the second half.
Diana Cavendish is still my favourite character, and this is reassured in the final two episodes as we learn a little more about her personal life and the truth behind her untold wisdom. She is the most capable witch in the academy, but she is also modest, kind and calculatingly clever in everything she does. Akko may be the protagonist in this overall story, but Cavendish demonstrates a character on the sidelines who perhaps has more reason to be the lead. Here is someone born into her unimaginable skills and respects it with dignity. She may annoy some people for outsmarting Akko most of the time, but as is evidential in the final moments of episode thirteen, there is more to her character than just perfection. Whilst Undead Travelogue and Bee Affection are more standalone episodes that rely on character development rather than story progression, they are still fun romps, if a short on complexity. Undead Travelogue gives us a brief glimpse into the past of the headmaster of Luna Nova and Bee Affection hints at Akko's growing relationship with Andrew who still has a problem with magic. Nevertheless, they clearly understand each other's trials and tribulations during a heartfelt scene at his mansion. Professor Ursula is revealed as Chariot - I can honestly say that I guessed that revelation, but it's nice to get confirmation. Blue Moon gave us a deeper perspective in the ancient lore of magic and how Shiny Chariot gained such amazing powers. This was the best episode yet, as it mixed a darker storyline with some important character development for both Akko and Cavendish, who discovers an ancient book discussing an ancient power. The denouement leads Professor Ursula to the realisation that she must support Akko wholly in every situation and becomes the devoted suitor. I must particularly praise the animation in episode eleven for its visual horror. The final two episodes are good, but they perhaps don't live up to the buildup for the mid series finale. We do get a lot of character development, and some much-needed conclusive evidence that Akko can properly use magic, but it leaves much to be desired for the story itself. There were some funny moments, especially when Akko gave Cavendish's cronies a piece of their own medicine, and a few moments of emotion as the friendship between Akko, Lotte and Sucy intensifies in their sacrificial show to conclude the Samhain. Concisely, there's a lot of heart, but not a lot of impact in its execution. As we're now at a point where we understand most of the goings on in Luna Nova, it's time to dig deeper and find the minute elements that define the personalities of its residents. There's a lot of loose ends that need to be revisited and tied up - particularly related to the magical spells themselves. There's no coherent explanation for the source of spells and their respective categories - we've simply had a collection of them pronounced every now and then. Hopefully Netflix can bring out the second half of the series before the end of 2017 so that we may get some serious answers. Until then, there's a lot to enjoy for younger viewers, somewhat less for adults, but it's still a decent little show with heartfelt messages of love, friendship and inspiration. Episode 9: Undead Travelogue - 7/10 Episode 10: Bee Affection - 6.5/10 Episode 11: Blue Moon - 8/10 Episode 12: What You Will - 7.5/10 Episode 13: Samhain Magic Festival - 8/10 Season Overall - 7.5/10 That was all a dream, wasn't it?" As we head deeper into the lore behind Little Witch Academia, and discover more hidden treasures and locations, the show starts to branch out both interactively and emotionally. The eighth episode especially shows the writers finding success in the pseudo area of storytelling in which they can parody other fiction. I especially enjoyed the Star Wars reference. But, at the same time, Akko as a character is stuck in a repetitive wheel of trying her best to succeed, but failing anyway. There seems to be a lot of hope, but not a lot of completion.
The episode are certainly mixing things up, with episode five and six really expanding on the background stories behind the school and giving us the chance to meet some new and exciting faces. In Pact of the Dragon, whilst the general premise and breadth of the story relies on a cliched storyline, there's a twist involving the mysterious dragon underground that gives it an original edge. The storylines may be kid-friendly, but there's enough internal references for the adults. Diana Cavendish continues to demonstrate her full capabilities as a more-than-competent witch as she seems to solve all the problems for the professors of Luna Nova. The Fountain is the best episode of the season yet as it gives Akko someone to really contemplate her feelings with. Whilst there's an obvious love interest in the air involving Andrew Hanbridge, he's not your typical one-dimensional character. The fact that he thinks magic is long overdue for extinction hints at an interesting conflict between him and the witches at the academy, despite his good looks. Nevertheless, in the space of twenty or so minutes, the writers succeed in allowing him to question his feelings towards magic and give Akko the chance to change his mind ever so slightly. I'm still suspicious of Professor Ursula - I believe she's more than just Akko's tutor, but someone with a hidden secret. Her devotion to this unskilled girl makes me question her intentions. In Orange Submariner we find that despite Akko's clear struggles in doing anything remotely related to magic, she's finally managed to secure herself a sturdy place in its halls after saving one of its professors. There's enough morality amongst each of the characters to make them believable, and that seems to be this show's strength so far - it has convinced that these characters have substance, and not just a simple personality. There's still a lot to improve and a story to progress, but so far enough has been introduced to create this rather charming world. Undoubtedly there are flaws in the writing when it comes to fleshing out the overarching story, but the production itself is impressive. The animation never fails to amaze me and some significant moments such as the short film shown in Sucy's mind about her first encounter with Akko, suggests that this show has a lot of heart. Hopefully the last part of this Netflix season can contribute more of the same or even better. Episode 5: Pact of the Dragon - 7.5/10 Episode 6: The Fountain - 8/10 Episode 7: Orange Submariner - 7/10 Episode 8: Akko's Adventure in Sucyworld - 7.5/10 Remember, a believing heart is your magic." Netflix's new acquisition from anime is the delightful Little Witch Academia, which is guaranteed to be an instant hit for kids. The story has just the right amount of fluffy exposition and equally the amount of magical adventure even for adults to enjoy and appreciate. Major influences from Harry Potter aside, this beautifully drawn animation tells the story of an inspired young woman who enthusiastically joins the Luna Nova Academy of witches to follow in the footsteps of her great idol, Shiny Chariot.
In truth, the story is burdened with overwhelming themes and messages about destiny and the importance of love, friendship and the will to succeed. But, also, the show has an endearing side that concentrates on the personalities of its characters and transforms them into relatable people. Akko Kagari is a passionate, energetic and all-round goofy girl who seeks self-definition in the academy, where she's discovered that magic is much harder to acquire than she first expected. She is a fascinating character, and credit to the writers and voice actress for creating such a complex person for the kids to look up to. Her two closest friends, Lotte and Sucy are also brilliantly portrayed, but only four episodes into the story, Sucy's character still needs a bit of life instilled. The most interesting character yet though, despite only appearing in episode two and three is Diana Cavendish, a fully-capable witch attending the academy who has so far had a love-hate relationship with Akko. At times she appears humble, but being surrounded by friends who glorify her as the greatest witch of her age, you find it difficult to easily praise her skill and prowess. There's also a whole host of other characters who have reached made a small mark so far in the story, but will probably appear more frequently later on. Professor Ursula especially seems to be a mysterious identity in the midst of many others. Each individual story is rather self-contained, but I like how the episode are all simultaneously connected as we see the characters develop. Even though a lot of the concepts are borrowed from other works of fiction, there are a few imaginative ideas present - especially the idea of using a crystal ball as a means of the witch's equivalent of Twitter. Also, the individual stories, whilst not ground-breaking, are clever in their own right. Night Fall, specifically, had a cool twist in the middle as it was revealed that the author Annabel was actually twelve individual authors over a period of a hundred and twenty years, and a fountain pen was the emblem of the author's power. Indeed, most of the series is childish and aimed directly at kids, but there's still some enjoyment to be had from adults - especially those who loved watching anime and fiction like Harry Potter when they were younger. It is more of a nostalgia trip rather than a new venture into entertainment, but it's a successful one with vivid characters. There's clearly an overarching story brewing in the background that hasn't quite reached fruition yet, but it will no doubt be plain and clear soon. Episode 1: Starting Over - 7/10 Episode 2: Papillodea - 7/10 Episode 3: Don't Stop Me Now - 7.5/10 Episode 4: Night Fall - 7/10 |
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October 2017
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