“Cardcaptor Sakura” is a classic anime that everyone could enjoy, regardless of age and gender. It’s a typical magical girl anime, but the plot is actually intertwined with lots of comedy and romance. There’s not a lot of drama, except maybe recurring goofs and difficulties that each character faces. The magic sequences are tremendous, especially when Sakura takes out her keychain.
The series is set in the world of a happy-go-lucky girl who suddenly comes across magical power and begins her quest alongside a cute lion-like caricature serving as her guide. It’s more than just a classic or a title that’s influential. It’s an example of a series that was not afraid to take risks and defy common conventions of the genre in order to maximize quality.
Combined with bright, stylish animation, an excellent soundtrack, and fantastic action scenes, “Cardcaptor Sakura” is capable of fulfilling the wants of every magical girl/shoujo fan. The series is adorned with a glorious outfit, lovingly crafted by her best friend, the Cardcaptor takes her stance in wake of the challenge that lies before her.
Despite being a magical girl anime, “Cardcaptor Sakura” never felt cynical. Its earnest tone was helped by Sakura not fulfilling the usual “Magical Girl” role, commonly held by characters like Sailor Moon. It offered a genuine portrayal of all kinds of young love—at a time when those were rare.
In conclusion, “Cardcaptor Sakura” is a beloved series for its enduring portrayal of youth and its revelatory queerness unlike anything on TV at the time, all wrapped in a kid-friendly monster of the week package. It’s a series that grows with its pre-teen audience in small, relatable increments. It’s a series that remains as relevant and queer as ever.