
Having seen how outstanding the measly 15 second TV clip was, it’s no surprise that the very first promotional visual of upcoming arcane adventure series, “Magi“, is simply astonishing its in its illustrative qualities.
There’s several more prominent features – and these each are definitely in need of recognition first, foremost, and individually. With so many fine facets however, it’s of course rather difficult to simply single out anything specifically – nonetheless, we start by focusing on the combined color, line, and pattern. Very fitting of this series’ setting, this artwork has a rough texture to it – highly reminiscent to rarer natural stones, like slate.
Warm hues fill the background in a gradient fashion, alongside an intercession of intense white – representative of the desert sand and sights, as well as the searing sun of a barren sandy land respectively.
A puddle of partially complementing, and fully contrasting green is seen in the bottom left corner of the image – and this is likely first serving as an abstractly colored shadow for our band of three, and secondly, indicative of the magical bits awaiting. There’s a visual barrier of separation – the green matches with certain parts of attire and person of our main protagonist, Aladdin, yet see how his two companions consist only of colors which adorn the background.
Red, yellow, and blue, each a hue seen on the head of a different character, make a triad color scheme – and this scheme in particular is one of the most beautiful, something which one will, of course, have no trouble noticing themselves.
Now turning attention to shadow and general traits of appearance, there’s so much being expressed by each character as they stand firm and intent. And beginning with the attractive yet fearsome looking female to the left, one can see she’s rather healthily “well-grown” for a girl her age. The clenched fist makes obvious the strength and will to fight – and her expression speaks of spite and onslaught as well, although her visage also looks to have a hint of refrain, as if only wishing to take action if absolutely necessary.
Off to the right, the fellow of blonde hair with the sizable sword seems ready for a fight as well – though he appears to be more making a nonverbal declaration of his strength. His weapon certainly is difficult to miss – and then one can’t help but notice the many injuries of battle found across his figure, showing that he’s still standing after much. The girl also has some scratches, scars, and bruises as well – also exhibiting that she’s been involved in a fair share of rough incidents. However, our protagonist in center hasn’t anything of the sort.
Aladdin looks like a kid, weak and puny, he’s not muscular, hasn’t a fancy weapon, and has no signs of previous scuffles – yet he actually looks to be the strongest of the three in this image. The first reason being his emanating confidence and still expression, a visage withholding any specific emotion – and secondly, the fact that someone of his physique has not simply managed to enlist two potent warriors, yet stand against such a crowd unwavering.
Taking a line from Cromartie High School, for a rabbit to live amongst lions, that must mean “it’s one hell of a rabbit!”
















Jun 26, 2012 @ 1:15 CDT
I picked up this manga back in march out of curiosity, and it turned out to be one of the most original shounen action mangas in recent years. Everything from the art, plot, setting, and characters was fresh and proved an exciting read. I am curious to know which studio is animating this because if they do manage to do it right, I’m sure it’ll turn out massive. I’m well and truly excited for this.
Jun 26, 2012 @ 1:33 CDT
A-1 Pictures – notable works include Anohana, Working!, Sword Art Online, and The iDOLM@STER.
Jun 26, 2012 @ 3:42 CDT
I will put Kannagi to your list aswell :P
Jun 26, 2012 @ 8:51 CDT
Nice addition – Kannagi is definitely far underrated. I wish there was a second season.
Jun 26, 2012 @ 1:32 CDT
Well looks like Seven found an image for me to make a folder of this anime.
Thank you.
Jun 30, 2012 @ 11:59 CDT
Should thank the artist, whoever it is.
Jun 26, 2012 @ 3:41 CDT
Negima + Ao no Exorcist = Magi :D
Well the PV and the KVA looks good, so will give it a try when it airs. Plus the red-haired girl looks cool
Jun 26, 2012 @ 8:50 CDT
I like the red hair – been so many generic 2-D girls, now we get a new original one.