Watch Izetta: The Last Witch

In a world similar to ours, but with different geography, technology, and politics, the story of Izetta: The Last Witch unfolds. After the death of the king of Eylstadt, a small country surrounded by powerful neighbors, Princess Finé deploys a desperate plan to save her people from the invading forces of Germania. She reveals that the last living witch in the world, Izetta, is her protector and declares war against the enemy.

The twist that makes this anime unique is the concept of witches as weapons of mass destruction. In this universe, magic is a rare and powerful force that can move mountains, create storms, and even shift the balance of wars. Witches are feared and hunted and have almost gone extinct after centuries of being used and abused by both sides of conflicts. Izetta is no exception; she grew up in secret, hiding from those who would exploit her magic, and she has a complicated relationship with Finé that borders on love.

As the story develops, Izetta: The Last Witch explores themes of war, diplomacy, loyalty, sacrifice, and prejudice. The conflicts between Eylstadt and Germania escalate, and other countries get involved, each with their own interests and motives. The characters face moral dilemmas, personal traumas, and impossible choices that reveal their strengths and weaknesses.

Amber Lee Connors voices Izetta, and her performance captures the character's mix of innocence, fierceness, and vulnerability. Saori Hayami portrays Princess Finé with elegance and determination, conveying her trust in Izetta and her doubts about whether her actions are right. Christopher Wehkamp plays the leader of Germania, Otto, with a chilling tone that shows his ambition and cruelty.

The animation quality of Izetta: The Last Witch is impressive, especially in the action scenes where the witches showcase their powers. The landscapes and cities of Eylstadt and Germania have a realistic and detailed design, adding to the immersion of the story. The soundtrack by Michiru Oshima enhances the emotional impact of the scenes, with memorable tracks that range from anthemic to melancholic.

One of the strengths of Izetta: The Last Witch is how it explores the consequences of magic in a realistic way, despite the fantastical elements. The series shows how the use of magic affects not only the battlefield but also the civilians, the politics, and even the environment. The characters struggle with the question of whether the benefits of having a witch on their side outweigh the risks and the costs.

Another notable aspect of Izetta: The Last Witch is how it portrays same-sex relationships with respect and subtlety. The dynamic between Finé and Izetta has romantic undertones, but it never feels forced or fetishized. The show acknowledges the taboo nature of their bond in a society that values heterosexual marriage and bloodlines, but it also shows how love can transcend social norms and expectations.

Overall, Izetta: The Last Witch is a well-crafted and engaging anime that combines elements of history, fantasy, and romance. It offers a fresh take on the concept of witches, delivering a thought-provoking and emotional story. Fans of shows like Fullmetal Alchemist, Attack on Titan, and Code Geass might enjoy this series for its political intrigue, high stakes action, and relatable characters.

Izetta: The Last Witch is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between September 16, 2016 and on Funimation