While magical girl anime are sometimes defined by clichés, these shows stand out as proof the genre has more to offer.

This is a reference to the New Testament of the Christian Bible. The girl in the drama Yuji and Shana are watching in Episode 11 is named "Rie", a small nod to Rie Kugimiya, Shana's seiyuu.

Just like Shakugan no Shana itself, the anime's best redemption arc is woefully underappreciated. Margery Daw is one of many Flame Hazes in the show, killing otherworldly denizens to keep the ...