When I first came across Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc., the title didn’t reveal much. At first glance, with its familiar illustrations, I assumed it was just another traditional “magical girl” series—one where young girls use magic to fight enemies, overcome challenges, and grow along the way. However, Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc.takes a completely fresh approach, cleverly twisting the genre. In this story, magical girls aren’t merely fantasy heroes; they are working professionals employed by companies of all sizes, specializing in eliminating “Kaii” (monstrous, supernatural phenomena) within a corporate framework. With the number of Kaii increasing each year, over 500 companies have emerged, ranging from large corporations to small startups. This unique blend of “business” and “magical girls” makes the series truly distinctive and resonates with anyone who has faced workplace struggles or office politics.
The main character, Kana Sakuragi, is a college student navigating the challenges of job hunting. Despite her diligence, preparation, and exceptional memory, her enthusiasm and hard work seem to fall flat with potential employers, leading to a string of rejections. During one fateful interview, a Kaii suddenly appears, and Kana instinctively helps a magical girl named Hitomi Koshigaya. This unexpected encounter leads Kana to be invited to join Hitomi’s company, marking the beginning of her journey as a magical girl.
Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc., Volume 1., Translation: Magical girls are strong, cool, and graceful. It’s a sought-after, high-paying job.
Unlike the “black kigyo” (exploitative companies) often portrayed in stories, the company Kana joins is a supportive startup where the president genuinely cares about his employees, and the staff is both talented and encouraging. They warmly welcome Kana, who finds a nurturing environment. When she transforms into a magical girl for the first time, the emotional weight of the moment causes her co-workers and the president to cry tears of joy. Each team member possesses unique skills, making their approach to exterminating Kaii both efficient and entertaining. While the action scenes are thrilling, the business aspect of the story is equally significant, showcasing Kana as she navigates her new responsibilities and learns what it means to be part of a team.
As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to more magical girls from various companies, highlighting the differences in attitude and approach based on their workplace environments. The challenges and concerns they face regarding their jobs add layers of depth to the narrative.
Moreover, in this story, magical girls utilize advanced engineering tools rather than relying solely on fantasy. The brooms they use are not just for flying; they are customizable devices that can store data and serve as weapons. The broom’s functions can even be upgraded or tailored during battles by an engineer. While this world is different from ours, the relatable struggles of an engineer dealing with slow processing speed due to an underpowered PC lend an amusing touch that resonates with readers.
The anime adaptation began airing in October 2024, and my favorite scene is when Hitomi and Kana transform into magical girls; it’s beautifully animated and captures the moment perfectly.
Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc. uses its fantastical setting to provide commentary on real-world work culture and the challenges of building a career. By merging action with office life, the series explores themes of self-worth, teamwork, and personal growth within a professional context, making it both relatable and refreshing. This isn’t just a story about magical girls; it’s a unique take on the workplace—and a fun one at that.
