Whenever you come across news that leaves you in a pure fit of child-ish glee, complete with squeals and the over powering urge to jump up and down, it is a extremely good thing.
Because it is far from every day when you hear that one of your favorite series has finally arrived in your country. So, welcome Lolirock!
I know that in the past I have mentioned Lolirock, yet I never really dived into the specifics. Mostly due to the fact that the series, despite being very well received across the globe, had yet to come to America. Even though I do enjoy and respect fan-subs, there was something about the lack of official release that keep me putting writing this of on the back burner. After all supporting official releases in media is what keeps brands going strong.
Fast forward to today, seeing that many lists for what is coming and going on Netflix had Lolirock listed as arriving on May first. There was fangirling, long awaited fangirling.
Minor spoilers ahead.
Lolirock centers on Iris, a rather ordinary teenager. That is until she starts to sing, for reasons unknown to her strange things she can never explain happen. With the unexplainable complication Iris finds herself ready to forgo her dream of being a singer- that is if not for her friend Nathaniel’s push for her to audition for a new group, Lolirock.
Aided by the words of her friend, Iris does in fact audition for the group. But per usual things go off course…more so than normal. Her voice destroys theater and soon two strangers start attacking her. From that moment on Iris’ life is forever changed as two allies come to her aid, Talia and Auriana, that explain to her that she is a magical princess that must use her powers to save her kingdom. The only way to stop Gramorr is to not only come into her powers, but find the Oracle Gem of the Royal Crown of Ephedia.
The series follows Iris, Talia and Auriana as they continue on their quest for the Oracle Gems and lead a fairly normal life in Sunny Day as members of Lolirock. But when you’re on a magic quest and are in the spotlight things get interesting.
It can be easy to write Lolirock off as a run of the mill magical girl series, but it is as far from run of the mill as you can get. Yes, it plays it clear as a magical girl series and even nods other iconic shows in the genera (specifically Pretty Cure “PreCure” and Sailor Moon (watch closely and you will see a mini Usagi running around!) respectively).
But Lolirock is grand in its own right and should be held up as a great magical girl series. There are so many intricate levels to this series that makes it smart and purely excellent. Diverse cast of characters that develop over time, well woven plots, heart and humor packed in every episode- there is a lot to Lolirock. The last time I recall seeing such great lore and mythology is probably Friendship is Magic.
Unlike quite a bit of magical girl series, Lolirock has a lot of action. But considering the same company has brought us the likes of Totally Spies and Martin Mystery that is to be expected.
Did I mention just how catchy the music is, but you will have it stuck in your head.
This is the type of show I would have loved growing up. Iris, Talia and Auriana act like actual teenage girls, despite everything life is throwing at them. They are not only likeable, but admirable. Great characters that fans both female and male should admire, they have their own issues and baggage but never hesitate to jump into action to do the right thing. We can never have too many characters like this.
I have been following Lolirock since before the show even debuted, I remember very clearly watching the first episode and thinking just how great it was. And shortly after that wanting nothing more for the series to come state side. I know that magical girl series seem to be more hit and miss here, a mystery of life that I can never seem to arrive to an answer. Now seeing the success of Miraculous, another magical girl series with anime inspiration, I firmly believe magical girls are going to rise tall. That Lolirock will become a series that reaches people’s hearts.
I want Lolirock to do well, because it deserves it. (Plus I really would love a Blu-ray release.)
Be sure to watch the first season of Lolirock when it arrives on Netflix May first. The second season is currently in production, so no fear!
Join the conversation: Ever heard of Lolirock, chat about it!
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