Burn the Witch is an anime and manga series from Tite Kubo. The one-shot was so popular that Shueisha’s wanted to create a movie from it. The Burn the Witch film is based on the limited four-chapter series. In other regions the film was broken up into three episodes. If you read the manga, then the content isn’t new. The episode retells the four chapters released last month. We’re introduced to the main characters, Noel and Ninny. Ninny is an idol that sings in the band called Cecile Die Twice. She’s often chased by the media and fans, she flees to Reverse London.
Meanwhile, Noel hunts for the Bud Buck. She attempts to capture it but is interrupted by a Dragon. Ninny arrives and captures the Buck with Magic #44: Flash Bumper. Noel and Ninny’s dynamic is typical. Their personalities both clash and compliment each other. We are introduced to Balgo Parks, a “dragonclad,” a human that was bitten by a dragon and is consider to be one. He’s a pervert constantly harassing Noel and asking to “see her panties.” Both Noel and Ninny seem to hate him or at least find the thought of taken care of him to be annoying.
Excited new world with little depth
The leaders of the Wing Bind society are the “Top Horns,” Director of the Inks, Bruno Bangnyfe, Director of the Anthems, Roy B. Dipper, Director of the Sacred, Cquntnire Milieve, Director of the Pipers, Tronbone Takkinen, and Director of the Sabres, Sullivan Squire, the rest aren’t present. Due to the fact that Burn the Witch is a limited series we don’t get much depth. The worldbuilding is interesting but feels rushed in some areas. I would imagine if Tite Kubo had more time he would reveal the Top Horns at a slow pace. However, I love the diverse design of all the characters.
Fans already have taken to the anime, many fell in love with Noel Niihashi. The stoic member of the Wing Bind agency, Noel seems to have become an instant fav of fans. The art style and creativity of Tite Kubo have fans excited as well. Ninny and Noel are the perfect pair who’s personalities balance each other. The only downside to this series is Balgo. He a typical perve, constantly harassing Noel. I find him dumb, annoying, and distracting. If the series were longer he might grow on me, but I think the series is better without him.
However, seeing a manga series animated is often more enjoyable. The anime is visually stunning, breathing life into Reverse London. You get a great sense of danger when you can see the civilians run and hear them scream. In Burn the Witch, the dragons benefit from being animated the most. Elly is an odd birdlike, skeleton looking dragon. Her movements are almost demonic. Only anime could breathe life into Elly. With the addition of music, sound effects, and explosions, Burn the Witch is a different experience when animated.
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