Wistoria: Magic wand and sword Episode 7 became the talk of the weekend after delivering a wonderfully animated episode. Although I have some questions about the script of the series, there is no doubt that the production team breathes life into Wistoria in an epic way.

Wistoria Animation Production

The animation in episode 7 was undoubtedly the biggest highlight, while the music from composers Yuki Hayashi, Luke Standrige, and Asa Taylor added even more flair to the drama. It goes without saying that anything helmed by director Tatsuya Yoshihara is bound to have its fair share of hype moments.

From using the vertigo effect to smooth camera rotations to using certain shots to highlight a shift in power position between characters. Yoshihara was known for creating the very first opening for Black clover in his greatest moments, so I had to smile when the opening theme for Wistoria started playing when Will was ready to end it all.

The feeling of just knowing who it was (probably) that decided to implement a creative decision you personally love just makes the anime viewing experience that much more enjoyable, and that’s what I took away from episode 7. While the fight between Julius and Will didn’t have any jaw-dropping special effects or stunning composition, it definitely had style and character.

Unlike Will’s fight with Shion, this one with Julius was much more than a one-sided brawl. It showed how capable Will is, that the characters in this show can’t win on talent alone, and that good facial expressions and visual storytelling can take a moment much further than the simple plot of what’s happening.

The animation was undoubtedly fantastic in episode 7 of Wistoria. But what I also really liked are the constant moments with Julius and Will’s facial expressions in different variations of close-ups like the ones below. Weaving that into their environment with specific shots at certain points in the fight (the last images in the collages) added that personality. Nothing is more satisfying than watching the calm protagonist help the antagonist slowly descend into madness under the weight of his own pride.

Wistoria’s writing worries

I give one Wistoria To its credit, it has managed to develop supporting characters (mostly antagonists in this regard) that are easy to hate, which in turn increases viewers’ enthusiasm for the main protagonist. I love it when a series presents us with someone who is easy to root for and another who is the opposite –Wistoria does so in its own shonen-esque, charming way. It’s not necessarily unique, but it’s far from being anything to be disappointed with.

Still, as I enjoy episode 7, I can’t help but feel that the series itself is racing along a bit to a lot. The fight between Julius and Will felt like it had been building for a long time, even though it really only lasted a few episodes. The opening credits sequence played, the animation was turned up to 11, and all of Will’s friends celebrated at the end. As much hype as it was, it just felt like we had reached a major climax in the story, even though it was technically just beginning.

I understand that the plot was taken from Julius and Will’s fight in the restaurant. But defeating someone who even Elfaria said could be her successor since he has a natural talent should have been much bigger. Will has defeated a bully yet again. First Shion, then Professor Edward, and now Julius. Will all his obstacles just be bullies and those who look down on him?

This is what concerns me when it comes to Wistoria– there is no set main antagonist yet. Of course, everything could be set up for that one person to show up. But now that seven episodes of a 12-episode season have aired, what will be the climax that crowns this battle?

Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy Wistoria and what Yoshihara and co. bring to the table. Even the author, Fujino Omori, has been praising the adaptation every week, and rightly so. It’s such a visually beautiful adaptation that no one can deny it at this point. I even like how the anime tones down the fanservice surrounding Elfaria’s character design compared to the manga.

I just want to see Wistoria Take a breather and focus a little more on world building and character development rather than rushing into rushed rivalries and magical battles. The characters are there and compelling, let’s focus on them outside of their fights for now, especially Colette and Lihanna.

Summary of episode 7 of Wistoria

Wistoria immediately fueled the hype with episode 7. This was an episode that kept me hooked from start to finish. I was undoubtedly hooked, albeit with my questions about the plot. It undoubtedly deserves a place in the top five in the upcoming weekly polls. Takahiko Usui, who served as episode director and storyboard artist for episode 7 of Wistoriadid a wonderful job.

Rating episode 7: 9/10

If you enjoyed Wistoria: Magic wand and sword Episode 7, then vote for the episode in our weekly poll! Episode 5 will be released on Crunchyroll on Sunday, September 1st.

Screenshots via Crunchyroll
©Fujino Omori, Toshi Aoi, Kodansha/Wistoria: Wand and Sword Production Committee