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Witches have for a long time been a source of inspiration for the creative musings of artists around the world, spanning multiple eras, cultures and religions, and as such being portrayed in uncountable ways. They are sometimes seen as deities, while in others as devils, but always possessing unfathomable powers beyond comprehension. Defiant of death and masters of nature, it comes as no surprise why witches have intrigued human imagination to such a deep extent.

It is from this vast pool of inspiration that Ojamajo Doremi draws from, yet also diverges from to form its own distinct identity. Unlike most similarly themed stories, the ... show opts for a more humanized portrayal of witches, who have their own world and live peaceful, carefree lives. Some of them live among humans, but due to an ancient curse they will instantly turn into frogs if someone finds out their identity. Ojamajo Doremi's special touch is that it also adds Mahou Shoujo elements to its witch lore, ranging from magical tools to transformations. None of these are used for fighting, however, and become part of everyday life instead. It is a different approach from the average Mahou Shoujo action anime, which alongside the humor gives the show its own laidback charm, although this doesn't mean it isn't rooted in the conventions of its genre. While the story's world is continually moving forward, most of the episodes are structured to have standalone plotlines, which usually involve helping secondary characters with the assistance of magic. This is a typical setup in Mahou Shoujo, but Ojamajo Doremi executes it with flying colors. Magic, as much as it is a helpful tool in the show, doesn't solve everyone's personal issues with the snap of a finger. It is but a shortcut, either giving tips on how to help someone or leading to places where the spell users can investigate a problem. Although the story is ingrained in fantasy it elegantly avoids copout resolutions, since it is first and foremost concerned about the emotional depth of its characters.

Accordingly, the main characters of this story undergo extensive exposition over the course of the anime as they try to become witches. There is Doremi, an airhead at heart; Hazuki, a gentle and booklover girl; Aiko, who is energetic and honest about everything she does; and finally Onpu, who is an extrovert and loved by almost everyone. They all start out as archetypes, but it doesn't take long until their individual, hidden traits come to light as their own stories unfold. A large portion of this is developed through the characters' families, which are wonderful lens into how their personas came to be, unveiling the influence of the parents over their children.

Aiko is a great example of this, as she spent most of her life as a member of a divorced family. Having lived with her father during this period, she inherited many of his idiosyncrasies and learned to take care of herself as her mother was no longer around. Her rapport with her father is unique due to their very open relationship, while Aiko never hides how she dreams of having her mother back among them. It goes to show that the story isn't afraid delving into delicate subjects like divorce, doing so with a subtlety uncommon in the medium. This also leads to a crucial plot point in the series, given that Aiko deeply seeks to bring her parents back together and becomes a witch apprentice with this purpose in mind. There is plenty of room for character building and introspection in cases like this, and the narrative makes wonderful use of these opportunities. Likewise, the other protagonists also receive the spotlight, although their stories don't carry the same sort of emotional weight as Aiko's. Thankfully, since the show keeps the characterization grounded in reality, it puts strong focus in fleshing out both the flaws and qualities of its cast. What sets Ojamajo Doremi apart in this instance is how attentive it is to its portrayal of children, in a way that carefully brings out their multifaceted and unpredictable nature.

All of this paves the road for one of the Ojamajo Doremi's strongest qualities: its delightful character dynamics. With a multilayered and well-realized cast at its disposal, the show manages to keep fresh and charming thanks to its ever-evolving web of relationships. The interactions between the protagonists often carry implications which aren't simply forgotten in the next episodes. Such is the case with Onpu, who avoids forming bonds in the beginning but gradually opens up to other people after a series of important events. Instances like this unfold naturally and give a much welcome dynamism to the characters, which nicely complements the little mannerisms they have towards each other. In the center of everything is Doremi, being essentially the glue that keeps the cast together. Despite being careless and clumsy to the point of messing up the simplest things, this aspect of her character is balanced by her sincerity and willingness to help others, which draws people to her. Naturally, this doesn't happen simply because of Doremi's personality, but mainly due to the extent she goes to understand other people's situations, never abandoning anyone. Her dedication is especially strong when caring for her close friends and her family, often not measuring her actions.

Benefitting greatly from the character dynamics is the humor, a big selling point of the series. The situations never come out as awkward thanks to the strong sense of intimacy the show establishes between the characters. It often makes use of their eccentricities to set up the comedy, such as Doremi's clumsiness, which is mocked by other characters and leads to genuinely amusing reactions. This is greatly enhanced by the incredibly dynamic character designs, as they allow a multitude of humorous facial expressions without sacrificing realism in other situations, sometimes even blurring the line between the two. The humor is an interesting contrast to Ojamajo Doremi's very down-to-earth storytelling, showcasing that the authors know how and when to do comedy. It is common for situations to quickly go through a change of tone, but the transitions occur so naturally and seamlessly that they are barely perceptible, thanks to the unobtrusive integration of humor with the rest of the show.

With so many strong points in regard to narrative tone and characterization, it is only natural that the background cast also stands out. Several episodes are dedicated to exploring the protagonists' class and shining light onto the different personalities that make part of it. What is most notable about this is how many of these secondary characters remain relevant throughout the season. They will often be seen playing and talking to others, while occasionally assuming more prominent roles in the story. This way no one is wasted and everyone feels part of something bigger, which builds a terrific sense of community and demonstrates how much the story really cares about its cast.

However, despite its qualities, Ojamajo Doremi also has its fair share of problems. For one, it is somewhat inconsistent as a whole. While there are no below-par episodes, some of them can be more easily forgotten than others when considered in the grand of scheme of things. This is often the case for the apprentice exam episodes taking place in the witch world, as they feel out of place given that they neither explore the lore nor add much in terms of characterization. It isn't to say these aren't enjoyable, but they still fall short of the better episodes. Related to this is how the show lacks a clear focus and theme, which while not a flaw in itself, leads the story to feel a bit too disjointed. The underwhelming conclusion can be seen as a result of that, given that it lacks a smooth progression and is triggered by a huge plot convenience. Specifically, the narrative fumbles its suspension of disbelief in order to set up the last episode, somewhat diluting its emotional impact. But fortunately, all of this doesn't keep Ojamajo Doremi from being a great anime.

In terms of production, this is where Ojamajo Doremi most struggles. Floating character models can often be seen roaming around the screen, while the clunky animation gets in the way of more subtle body language. Given that this is a low budget anime these sorts of issues are to be expected, but it doesn't make things any less awkward for the viewer. At the very least, the art direction has excellent execution and displays a great array of beautiful watercolor backgrounds, especially when portraying scenery of the witch world. The show's usage of visual cues to mirror the characters' emotions is pretty effective as well, and especially charming when conveying happiness and excitement.

All things considered, it can be seen that Ojamajo Doremi's true strength lies in its superb cast and its blending of humor and realism. Behind its simple premise hides a story that deftly interweaves magic and reality. But magic, even if central to the show, isn't portrayed as the solution to everything. And so, achieving a depth uncommon to Mahou Shoujo anime, Ojamajo Doremi is not only a rare gem within its genre, but anime as a whole.

The year is 1876 and the Second Industrial Revolution is at its dawn. The world was only a few years away from witnessing the wonders of electricity. Countless technological innovations in the industry, in an ever-growing scheme, are slowly shaping a whole new spectrum of efficient and flexible methods of production. In order to satiate a ravenous hunger for power and resources, Europe's Imperialistic giants once again turn their eyes towards the vast lands of Africa and Asia.

Meanwhile, in Prince Edward Island, Canada; life follows its course as if unaware of the changes around the globe. Rural lifestyles without much commotion characterize the ... people of Avonlea, a fictional town that the characters of this story call home. Somewhere in town, Matthew Cuthbert is heading out in his carriage for a rare appearance outdoors. It turns out a male orphan was adopted, and the grizzled man was on his way to pick up the boy at the train station. In the days of old, the idea of raising an unknown child was frowned upon by many on account of the risks that came along with it. But Matthew's younger sister, Marilla Cuthbert, understands that change is necessary. As years went by, the ceaseless march of time began to slowly take its toll on the elder's body, which is with each passing day having more and more difficulties in dealing with the heavy workload of the farm. But now, with an easier lifestyle guaranteed, the closing stages of Matthew's journey seem certain to follow a calm final course. However, as he approaches the station, some sort of grave mistake seems to have occurred. Why, for what sort of reason is there a red-haired girl instead of a boy waiting for his arrival…?

And thus begins the coming of age story of Anne Shirley of Green Gables. An orphan since her infancy, Anne wandered from place to place for most of her life without the care of a true family. Due to this precarious lifestyle, an intense longing for a place to call home grew with the passing of time. With almost no one to rely on or receive a proper upbringing from, she would often find solace in the world of books and her imagination as means to keep herself in high spirits. As a form of escapism, Anne's love for literature and the imaginary would slowly begin to mold her dynamic and radiant persona.

The child who arrived at Green Gables, though only eleven years old, was more mature than her age would suggest. Anne's early childhood, while truly difficult, contributed to developing a certain degree of self-dependence. Often under emotional pressure and dealing with heavy workloads, she was forced to adapt to the conditions imposed by the unfavorable environment. But beyond that, they also created a deep sense of humility and inner strength within her—rather than becoming downhearted, Anne learned to find happiness amidst pain. As someone able to enjoy the littlest things in life, even an ordinary day feels splendid to her. Despite showing slight signs of vanity, this immense gratitude towards the world is what keeps Anne from being a spoilt and selfish child. In face of this, Marilla, even if entirely against the idea of adoption at first, slowly develops a profound appreciation for the girl's sincerity and gumption.

Anne's subsequent endeavors, through honest mistakes and awkward scrapes, are both genuine and amusing, playing an essential role in her growth as a person. Intertwined with her coming of age, various branches explore the cracks and corners of childhood. Be it with the little girl who longs for life-long friendships, or the diligent student who strives for excellence in every undertaken task, or the matured teenager who is conflicted due to the bigger responsibilities that come with age; there's always aspects one can easily relate to. With each passing episode, the viewer gradually gets to know more about the apprehensions, aspirations and fancies that inhabit the young protagonist's mind. And in similar pace, the audience witnesses the flow of time that so pervades human life.

Time: an ever-changing and constant stream of events that shapes and changes everything around civilization, from the world's landscapes and oceans to a person's personality and appearance. In the same manner that it brings good things, it also takes away. In Akage no Anne, this concept is conveyed through Anne's growth and the changes within the environment after her arrival. Conceptually, the very premise of the story is rooted deep in the notion that life is subject to time and chance. Matthew, who's in his sixties, is with each passing day showing more symptoms of age, and he is no longer is able to keep up with the tiring farm work as he once did. Marilla, although still not short of vigor, is already past the midpoint of her life's journey, and her eyes no longer work as well as in the past. Ever since the siblings' parents died, only the two of them have been living in the house, and as they grew older and older, the place took on a silent and solemn atmosphere. The orphan's arrival at their abode, however, marks the beginning of a new era. Anne's grateful and vivacious nature brings a vitality and color long lost in the house, acting as a catalyst for mutual growth between the residents that gradually starts resembling that of a unified family.

However, witnessing the heartfelt relationship between Anne, Matthew and Marilla as they grow together as a family and deal with the tribulations of life is only part of the journey. Beyond the basic premise, Akage no Anne is a subtle yet insightful look into the etiquettes, norms and principles that form the foundation for the identity of the inhabitants of Avonlea. Similarly to the home environment, institutions like school play a critical role in shaping the mindsets of people. Understated in nature, this theme is explored simply through the daily doings and interactions of the cast—something easily discerned by an attentive viewing.

Under Marilla's supervision, Anne is taught important societal norms and values. Being a woman whose entire life was built around a set of principles, her main objective is to thoroughly instill these values into Anne. The child's constant lack of concentration and understanding of social norms is seen by Marilla as a big problem that needs fixing. However, contrary to her stern image, the 52-year-old doesn't adopt a needlessly stringent method of teaching, instead allowing Anne to experience a joyful childhood free of unnecessary restrictions.

Considering the importance of education in the story's context, school is seen as an integral part of the community's culture and one's development. Fairly unfamiliar to Anne prior to coming to Green Gables, school becomes a pivotal environment in her growth as a young girl. A nurturing place of learning, it is in there where Anne's mind flourishes intellectually. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Anne's teacher, Mrs. Stacy, was a godsend to her. Being one of the very few adults to ever encourage the girl's creative mind and intense use of imagination, she becomes an invaluable role model for the impressionable Anne. Of immense importance over time, school opens a multitude of doors for the diligent student. But among everything, the greatest thing it awarded was an important goal in life: the possibility of attending college and graduating.

Anne's process of maturation—subtly perceptible in its early stage, and immense in the long run—is slow and nuanced. As life unfolds, Anne gains size, becomes more self-dependent and responsible, prioritizes more 'grown-up' activities, and develops more lady-like manners. She starts becoming more of a socially respectable person, blossoming into a teenager with a number of aspirations...

And so the little Anne grows up. The talkative redhead who used to constantly indulge in her flights of fancy and get into the most unusual situations, experiences a new stage in life where ambitions and life goals reside. However, her worldview, albeit more seasoned, remains fundamentally the same. Anne's gratitude for the smallest of things in life and her explosive imagination are inherent qualities, and will remain ingrained in her psyche for as long as she lives. As the protagonist herself says later in the story, even if grown up physically and mentally, the vivid and imaginative little Anne will always be there. And this, indeed, is what makes Anne Shirley such an extraordinary personality.

Subtle too, is the way how Marilla, through the daily contact with Anne, begins to cultivate a maternal sense dormant within her dutiful shell. The rigid and stern house-owner gradually gives way to a more lenient and mellow person. However, Anne has also changed. When the once hard-hearted woman is confronted with the matured teenager, reality hits like a rock. The overemotional and talkative Anne she once learned to love vanishes, and gives place to a self-composed youngster. Despite still loving the girl as much as when she was just a little child, Marilla finds herself unable to shrug off this queer, sorrowful sense of loss. Life never stops moving forward, and sooner or later, everyone stands at the crossroads of life, and what is loved won't be around anymore. Seemingly simple at first glance, it is quotidian situations like this in Akage no Anne that most richly convey the nuances of human life. The more grown-up Anne embodies the transition between childhood and adolescence, and all the small joys and little mistakes that molded her into a stronger person for the first time demonstrate their true significance. Marilla's conflicting, bittersweet emotions illustrate not only the reluctance of a parent seeing their child moving into a new life stage, losing some of the innocent charm in the process, but one who wholeheartedly embraces the blossoming youth. Here, it is displayed the natural method through which Akage no Anne's narrative conveys introspection and character development. In this case, the build-up started back in the very moment when Anne made her way into Green Gables, culminating with substantial personal and interpersonal developments within the family.

The resplendent mosaic of Akage no Anne—solid in its individual pieces, brilliant in its entirety—is proof that even the simplest concepts can be assembled together in order to create something truly masterful. All serving a common purpose, both the small and big pieces of Anne's life story mean something in the grand scheme of things, coalescing into a cohesive whole that is undoubtedly far greater than the sum of the parts. The laid-back storytelling, as if inviting the audience to experience the lives of the characters, is slow and meticulous in exploring the trivialities and intricacies of daily life—it is a casual, and above everything, sincere method of characterization and development of themes that go beyond time and place. The unfolding of the cast's lives and routines is the form by which Akage no Anne's storytelling so naturally conveys its messages. Through the slow build-up of routine, the audience truly gets to know Anne, those closely related to her, their individual worlds, and how they change and mold each other through the passing of time. They are dynamic personalities, and more importantly, something more than mere narrative devices. And this, consequently, is what makes Akage no Anne's cast so believably human through their joys and struggles, and its themes so universal. People grow, people live, and people change. And so does Green Gables and its residents.