Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie Part 1: Beginnings

Released in 2012, Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie Part 1: Beginnings was produced by Studio Shaft and Aniplex as the first installment in a two-part cinematic compilation of the original twelve-episode television series. The film serves to reintroduce the dark, deconstructive approach to the magical girl genre that the series became famous for, condensing the early narrative beats while utilizing upgraded animation sequences to polish the visual experience for a theatrical environment.

The film maintains the distinct artistic vision of director Akiyuki Shinbo and production designer Gekidan Inu Curry, whose work on the series is characterized by surreal, collage-like imagery and experimental framing. Upon its release, the film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, acting as a pivotal gateway that solidified the franchise's standing in contemporary animation history and paved the way for the subsequent release of the concluding sequel, Rebellion.