Unleashing the Power: The Most Intense Magical Girl Show Yet

Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight may seem like a typical high school drama with a magical twist, but it offers much more than that. The anime, directed by Tomohiro Furukawa and animated at Kinema Citrus, centers around nine girls who attend Seisho Music Academy and learn various performance skills, including acting, singing, dancing, and stagecraft. However, the story takes a unique turn as the girls engage in musical battles called "auditions" to determine who will be crowned the coveted "Top Star."

"Let's Go Together. To That Stage."

Karen Aijou's childhood dream of acting on stage was fueled by a promise she made to her friend, Hikari Kagura. However, when Hikari transfers to her school, Karen finds herself kept at a distance. One fateful night, Karen discovers an otherworldly theatre hidden beneath their school and witnesses a fierce duel between Hikari and one of their classmates, Juuna. A talking giraffe informs Karen that she was not chosen for the auditions, but Karen's loyalty to her friend drives her to break the rules and become the ninth competitor, much to Hikari's dismay. The competition is intense, especially since there can only be one "Top Star."

Revue immerses its audience in a theatrical ambiance where the terms "lead" and "star" are used to symbolize the struggles performers face in pursuit of their aspirations. However, the enigmatic aspect of the play lies in the absence of a clear explanation for the supernatural battle that unfolds on stage, leaving some viewers intrigued but others overwhelmed.

What Does It All Mean?

Participating in these auditions may seem like a magical path to fulfilling one's dreams, similar to the series Fate/Stay Night. However, the truth is not so straightforward and explicitly stated. The happiness these girls aspire to gain from these auditions is not much different from what they hope to achieve in their regular studies. The underlying implication is that by competing in these battles, they can secure their position as a lead as though it is a divine decree. The giraffe's explanation of what it means to be a Top Star is essentially to be the lead in one's own life. This metaphor represents the pursuit of dreams and self-discovery, with the theatre serving as the perfect backdrop for such themes.

Revue Starlight effectively captures the competitive nature of theater that many stories have attempted to portray. However, this anime adds a mystical abstraction to the mix that makes it stand out. By turning duels into performances, each of the main girls gets to showcase their unique signature weapons while also singing. It's a perfect blend of theater and action that is both captivating and entertaining.

Making of a Revue

They are perched on intricate stages, basked in the glow of bright lights and complemented by magnificent special effects. The camera steadfastly captures every detail, including the spotlights, smoke machines, and ropes backstage. In fact, the show pays particular attention to these elements. It is an undoubtedly enchanting scene, crafted from realistic components, which only serves to emphasize the exhilaration that theatre brings.

Karen's transformation is a testament to the show's dedication to portraying the construction of theater in an exhilarating manner for the audience and the young performers alike. Instead of a simple wardrobe change, Karen undergoes a complete metamorphosis, highlighted by a bold sign proclaiming "I Am Reborn" in the background.

The factory line tirelessly forges her sword while the sowing machines diligently craft her clothes, their gentle purring reminiscent of the engines powering the bright spotlights. This transformation is unlike any other, and in the sequel film, it is taken to even greater heights, symbolizing the complete destruction of Karen's former self and her subsequent rise to become who she was truly meant to be. Few shows can match the sheer intensity and power of Revue's visual metaphors.

The TV Anime

In all 12 episodes, the Top Stars' motivations are thoroughly explored, with a particular focus on Karen and Hikari's relationship. The show's queer themes are not merely subtext, but rather boldly present throughout. The romantic imagery is so unmistakably sapphic that it could make even Utena blush.

However, it's unfortunate that the unique quirks that make this show intriguing may also be a hindrance for some viewers. The initial episodes may not provide enough emphasis on the battles or the necessary stakes, causing a lack of investment. Nonetheless, as the plot progresses in Episode 6, it delves into fascinating character developments and raises the stakes. Revue's television adaptation explores various motivations for people seeking success, without harsh judgment, allowing them to grow. This narrative challenges the notion that achieving success requires abandoning those who hold significance in one's life and also addresses the pain of losing to someone else in the race to the top.

Baroque on the Big Screen

The show deftly tackles relatable and realistic conflicts without resorting to cheap tricks or getting sidetracked by the supernatural elements. In fact, these elements only add to the overall message of the story as the fourth wall is gradually dismantled, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the experience with the characters. It's a reminder that theatre is truly at its best when the audience is fully engaged.

Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight: The Movie takes this story to the next level with its masterful execution of abstract drama on the big screen. The stunning visuals, made possible by a theatrical budget, strike a balance between the French New Wave style of the Kizumonogatari trilogy and the emotional depth seen in the Evangelion films. It's a must-watch for fans of the series and anyone who appreciates the artistry of anime.

The soundtrack by Yoshiaki Fujisawa and Tatsuya Kato is simply breathtaking and elevates the film to a new level, surpassing even the series as a whole. While the movie may not have been necessary, it certainly adds to the overall work and beautifully ties up the characters' stories. This series speaks passionately to the significance of art and those with whom we share it, and the performances are truly dazzling, with the goal of evoking emotion above all else. For those willing to immerse themselves in it, Revue Starlight is a series that is definitely worth the obsession.