Izetta: The Last Witch - Episode 2 (Review)
By: Mithrandiel[yasr_multiset setid=11]
Recap
When we last left Izetta and Princess Finé, they had just made a daring escape from a Germanian plane where they were both being held captive. Straddling a huge rifle, Izetta enchanted it and dashed to Finé's rescue before realizing that they had fighters on their tail.With an injured princess and four fighter pilots on her tail, Izetta invokes her powers to save her friend. While the nature of her powers are still unknown, we see her use her blood to summon ice spears - maybe this will be a running theme?
After dispatching 3 of the fighters, Izetta's powers are running low and just as it seems as though they're doomed to be shot down, Finé takes the plane down the old fashioned way by cocking the giant rifle they're riding and putting a huge bullet into the propeller.Out of immediate danger, Izetta carries Finé through the forest, hoping to come across some friendly forces to provide first aid. Luckily, the defeated troop from Eylstadt's border fortress are currently making their slow retreat through the forest and Izetta is able to enlist their help.While at the camp, we get a little more insight on Izetta's past - while there used to be plenty of witches in the world it seems as though Izetta is now the last witch (hence the title). Of course, not only is she the last witch, but also the most powerful witch they've seen in "generations". A handy skill to have, and a fine complement to her plot-armor.
Finé makes a fairly quick recovery as the fleeing troop takes shelter in a nearby abandoned castle. Understanding the dire situation her country is in, Finé begins to plan her next moves, but asks Izetta to leave - afraid that getting Izetta involved would only involve her using her powers and breaking some serious taboos. Izetta, on the other hand, has made up her mind. She will fight for Eylstadt, and for Princess Finé.
Review
Izetta continues to impress with this week's episode. As I mentioned in my review of episode 1, part of what impressed me about Izetta was the pacing and structure of the episode. Three solid acts that helped to introduce key characters, but also moved at just the right speed - fast enough to keep viewers interested while slowing down to make sure the audience caught everything it needed to.This week kicked off with a bang as Izetta and Finé squared off with fighter pilots, and it was certainly a thrill to watch. Izetta's unique magic style has me intrigued and wanting to learn more about how it works - is it tied to the land? Is it spirit or element based? I need to know!Another quick point on Izetta's magic - it isn't overwhelming. Often times magic-users can be portrayed as being nigh-impossible to take down by regular soldiers, but Izetta certainly seemed to be feeling the pressure. This definitely added a sense of urgency to the opening fight/chase scene, which was done very well overall.I continue to admire Finé as a character, particularly near the end of the opening scene when she takes her shot at the final fighter pilot -
Continuing to demonstrate her quick-thinking and selflessness, Fineé continues to be a strong female character without falling into the many traps that often trip up their development.Not much meat on the episode in terms of plot, save a few glimpses into Izetta's past and more shuffling of antagonists behind the scenes, but now that Izetta has pledged her service to Finé I'm sure we'll see the action ramp up in the next few weeks.Overall, still enjoying the series thoroughly - one of my recommendations for this season for sure!
