Daniel Mercer
In the realm of video game preview events, there’s a term known as a “vertical slice.” This concept allows potential players to experience self-contained segments of a game, showcasing its core systems and mechanics. The fifth episode of Witch Hat Atelier offers a similar experience, solidifying its position as a leading contender for anime of the year and prompting viewers to reflect: if you’re not currently engaged with this remarkable anime, what could possibly be holding your attention?
At this juncture, we have passionately discussed how the animation studio Bug Films has successfully adapted Kamome Shirahama’s manga. After an initially concerning delay, the studio has risen to the occasion, delivering a magical premiere that captivates fantasy enthusiasts. This series poignantly highlights the perils associated with cutting corners in animation (ahem, AI), while also providing a much-needed alternative to the HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series.
Despite the strong foundation laid by its premiere, which introduced a unique magic system where spells are drawn rather than cast, and set the stage for a narrative brimming with empathy, the excitement of acquiring new skills, and impending threats, the series had not yet delivered an episode that encapsulated all these captivating elements simultaneously.
While the series passed the much-revered anime “three-episode test” with exceptional results, it was the fifth episode—coincidentally, the highest-rated episode on IMDb—that served as the ultimate vertical slice. This episode elevates the source material while previewing the suspense, action, and intrigue that have made manga readers ardent supporters of the series, all encapsulated in one magnificent installment. Allow us to explore the various ways it shines.
True to its title, the fifth episode of Witch Hat Atelier, “The Dragon’s Labyrinth,” immerses viewers in a scenario where Coco and her fellow witch apprentices find themselves trapped in a maze reminiscent of M.C. Escher’s artwork, with an imposing Welsh dragon threatening their safety. Their mission: to navigate their way out of the magical portal they unwittingly entered while pursuing a mysterious brimmed-hat witch, a move that reflects their adventurous—and perhaps reckless—spirit. Regrettably, the atmosphere is tense, with spirits low among the quartet of adopted daughters.
To start, Agott is furious with Coco for accidentally bumping into her while she was drawing a spell, which is a significant violation of their magical etiquette. To exacerbate matters, Agott chastises Coco, blaming her for her mother’s petrification due to a forbidden spell. The usually cheerful and agreeable Tetia is also visibly shaken by their precarious situation, casting a glance at Coco that clearly conveys her frustration and blame for their current predicament. Richeh, on the other hand, is simply exhausted. As far as initial challenges go, Witch Hat Atelier has certainly placed the girls in a tough bind.
However, following a heartfelt exchange between Coco and Tetia, the girls begin to collaborate, using their combined intellect to devise a strategy to confront their dragon dilemma and lift the spell that ensnared them in the labyrinth. With spectacular displays of the drawing process—such as tracing over paper before finalizing a perfect circle, discarding rough drafts, and meticulously adjusting spells until they are precisely right—the girls formulate their plan of action.
Instead of engaging in a traditional explosive battle reminiscent of Dragon Ball Z, they opt for Coco’s unconventional idea: creating a giant bed for the dragon using Tetia’s incomplete cloud spell. After all, the essence of magic is to bring joy. Ultimately, the girls achieve a stunning triumph, luring the dragon towards a massive bed of clouds to allow him to rest his weary head, especially after he had previously threatened them. This episode manages to make the act of drawing feel exhilarating.
Of course, challenges persist for this small group of girls. As they lift the spell, the labyrinth begins to collapse, inciting the dragon’s wrath once again. Fortunately, their mentor Qifrey—who, despite sharing a striking resemblance to Jujutsu Kaisen’s Satoru Gojo, is indeed a distinct character—steps in to demonstrate the impressive capabilities of a witch of his caliber. Words cannot adequately express how visually stunning Qifrey and, by extension, Witch Hat Atelier, appears in this moment; you’ll have to see it for yourself.
Just as the episode appears to be reaching its conclusion, the plot thickens further. The brimmed-hat witch’s ominous monologue alludes to a grand plan aimed at corrupting Coco, leading to a heartfelt breakdown as Coco grapples with the fear of losing her friends. Qifrey offers her quiet praise, recognizing her remarkable efforts, as the cheerful, tropical ending theme begins to play, accompanied by credits rolling over the scene. Suddenly, the music halts abruptly. Qifrey casts a menacing glare at a shopkeeper, demanding that the origin of the ink used to enchant the girls remain a closely guarded secret. This moment hints at deeper complexities within Qifrey’s character, suggesting that there is much more to unravel in the anime, promising an exciting journey ahead.
Experience the magic for yourself by tuning into Witch Hat Atelier every Monday on Crunchyroll.
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Ethan Carter
