Rated: on Feb, 5th, 2012 by fresh_c
This show is not for everyone. It's especially not for children.

If you come into this show expecting a typical magical girl anime, you will most likely be shocked and horrified. I would say more, but I don't want to give anything away.

Just know that this is a show that will constantly betray your expectations. Just when you think you have a full picture of what's going on, another twist to the plot is introduced. Yet these constant twists never seem contrived. They always flow perfectly in a way that shows the writers planned it all along. You will feel for the characters as they fight through the tragedies around them and struggle with the difficult decisions (or indecision) that they have to make.

The art style can only be described as "studio shaft". The blending of what looks like paper cut outs and other such graphics with cutesy "moe" animation that you would expect from a magical girl show. This artistic dissonance makes the monster of the weeks called "Witches" quite horrific to look at. This is the only anime I've ever seen that's legitimately freaked me out with it's visuals.

Studio Shaft did a great job of setting the mood and telling a truly unique story with far reaching implications. As long as you recognize that this IS NOT a typical magical girl show and you're willing to frequently alternate between being depressed and disturbed, you will enjoy your time with this anime. I know I did.