In a world where witches and magic are real but feared, the journey of a half-beast mercenary and a mysterious young witch is about to reveal a truth that shakes the kingdom. The Grimoire of Zero (Zero kara Hajimeru Mahou no Sho) is an anime that takes us back to an era when magic was still forbidden, and the question of 'who should wield this power' becomes a key driver of the story.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story takes place in a world where witches exist and magic is something ordinary people do not understand. After a witch named Sorena is accused of using magic to spread a plague, the kingdom of Venias is thrown into conflict between witches and the royal family, leading to open witch hunts. A half-beast mercenary named Youhei is being hunted by magic users, but then he meets a young witch named Zero who saves his life. She is searching for the 'Grimoire of Zero,' which records how to use magic for ordinary people and could change the world. The two make a pact and set off together, facing many obstacles from both the royal faction and witches who desire the grimoire.
Performance and Characters
The main character Zero, voiced by Yumiri Hanamori, conveys the mystery and cuteness of a young witch with charm. Youhei, voiced by Tsuyoshi Koyama, captures the tough but loyal mercenary well. Supporting characters like Albus and Holdem also help drive the story. Although the voice actors do a good job, some characters feel shallow, especially the villains who lack depth.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
The visuals by Studio White Fox are decent for 2017. Character designs and fantasy scenes are beautiful, especially magic scenes with vibrant colors. The music by Kenichi Maeyamada and Yoshihiro Ike creates an appropriate atmosphere for both exciting battle scenes and calm, warm moments. However, some episodes have stiff animation that is not as fluid as it could be.
Editorial Analysis
The Grimoire of Zero presents themes of segregation and fear of the different through the relationship between humans and witches. The series asks 'who deserves power' and 'does fear lead to violence,' which are contemporary themes. However, the pacing is slow at times, and the development of the relationship between Zero and Youhei feels rushed. Despite strengths in world-building and concepts, some drawn-out episodes may bore some viewers.
Verdict
The Grimoire of Zero is an anime suitable for viewers who enjoy fantasy with light philosophical and political themes. Despite weaknesses in pacing and animation, its ideas about fear and acceptance of differences are still engaging. If you like stories of odd-couple journeys and magic, this series is worth watching.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Interesting and detailed fantasy world
- +Social themes of segregation and fear
- +Good chemistry between main characters
👎 Cons
- −Slow pacing in some episodes
- −Supporting characters and villains lack depth
- −Some animation scenes are not fluid
Top Cast
FAQ
The series has 12 episodes, complete in one season.
It is a fantasy adventure anime with action, comedy, and drama.
Yes, there is a manga adaptation of the light novel by Kakeru Sora, serialized in Dengeki Daioh magazine.
For those who like fantasy with politics and cute characters, it should be enjoyable. But if you expect intense action, you may be disappointed.
