The Ancient Magus’ Bride Midseason(?) Review

It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these but this series has my undivided attention. It doesn’t really need me to write about it but I feel like if you aren’t watching this series you are missing out. BIG TIME. The anime I’m talking about is Wit Studios’ The Ancient Magus’ Bride(Mahoutsukai no Yome). I wanted to wait to talk about this when episode 12 was released BUT I’m impatient, so let’s jump right in!

The Ancient Magus’ Bride revolves around Hatori Chise, a 16-year-old girl with no family who was bought for money. She was not bought by another person but a non-human magus(mage) by the name of Elias. Instead of purchasing her to be a slave as most would think, Elias takes her as his next apprentice. Oh wait, not only as his apprentice… But his bride. I know, it’s kind of weird but just roll with it.

Funny enough, I had no real desire to watch this anime. I felt that it was overhyped and not worth my attention. I started watching it mainly to stay current… with the other 15+ anime I watched this season. I was proven wrong around episode 4(I think). The ominous tone that it gives when they are talking about the darker side of this world can really give you chills. Yet, they also know how to make a grown black man cry. Not talking about myself or anything. They find great ways to bring in a more comical side too with this chibi style of animating certain scenes.

Magus’ Bride is overall aesthetically pleasing. This should come as no surprise with Studio Wit animating it but not at all what I expect. Just imagine you went from watching High School of the Dead, Attack on Titan or Kabaneri and THEN watching this show. Completely left field from what I’m used to. But I’ll be damned, this show is gorgeous. Everything completes each other from the OST to the color palate.

I personally think The Ancient Magus Bride is going to be a great gateway anime. Especially if you have some friends that are really into Harry Potter, I feel this will meet their needs. As much as we’re not even halfway through this series, I know it will ultimately gain an 8 or higher from me on MyAnimeList.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my midseason review. I really hope that you will give The Ancient Magus’ Bride a shot if you haven’t. If you have, I’d love to hear what you think of the show!