UlasanAnime.com – This review delves into the film “Madoka: Rebellion,” offering candid impressions and highlighting key moments, with a clear spoiler warning for those who haven’t seen it.
A friend’s observation that the characters in the film are “selfish” resonates, yet the reviewer posits this very trait is central to the narrative’s exploration of nuanced motivations, suggesting that such a broad label overlooks deeper complexities.
The film’s primary drawback, according to the review, is its strong sense of being a setup for a future installment, leaving numerous significant questions unanswered. While Madoka’s actions at the end of the TV series directly addressed the core issues, Homura’s new role in the altered world feels more implied than explicitly demonstrated. The reviewer questions whether Homura’s ultimate choice truly resolves the central conflict or if it’s merely a different approach to the same problem, excluding the Incubators but not necessarily offering a definitive solution.
Visually, “Madoka: Rebellion” is described as Shaft’s most elaborate film to date. The intricate details are expected to be a feast for dedicated fans upon its home video release, allowing for close examination of frames, hidden messages, and character interactions. The film is also characterized as potentially the most “pothead-friendly” Shaft anime, due to its challenging narrative and reliance on imaginative visuals, particularly as much of the story unfolds within a witch’s labyrinth.
A recurring motif throughout the movie is dancing. This is evident in the opening sequence’s disco-like choreography, the magical girl transformations, and even in specific scenes involving floating heads and musical elements, suggesting a deliberate thematic choice.
The fusion of “magical girls + Gun-kata” is highlighted as a particularly impactful element, implying a definitive and satisfying conclusion to a particular aspect of the narrative.
The review strongly suggests the need for a follow-up film, as “Rebellion” apparently lacks the characteristic satisfying closure often associated with writer Gen Urobuchi’s work, missing a “key ingredient.”
The screening experience is described as typical of an anime club event, with a diverse audience including costumed individuals and enthusiastic fans. Despite the lively atmosphere before and after the film, the audience largely remained quiet during the viewing itself, with only occasional yelps or applause. The reviewer, seated at the front, could not ascertain if anyone left before the end, as the film continues after the credits.
Aniplex’s decision to distribute shikishi at the American screenings is seen as a positive gesture, a step up from previous offerings, though the reviewer expresses a desire for more merchandise, similar to what’s available at special screenings in other locations.
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In a concise summary, the reviewer’s overall sentiment is one of qualified approval, stating “I guess so” regarding enjoyment, and a tentative “Maybe once more” for a rewatch, purely to catch any missed details.
