“Witch Watch” continues its delightful blend of fantasy and comedy with Episode 8, which premiered on May 25, 2025. This episode, titled “Kanshi’s Part-Time Job Diary,” shines a spotlight on Kanshi Kazamatsuri, the often-careless familiar, as he navigates the trials and tribulations of earning his keep. Let’s dive into a recap and review of this entertaining episode.
The Plot Thickens (with Screws!)
Episode 8 consists of two main parts, each showcasing Kanshi’s attempts to hold down a job:
Hero Show Hijinks
The episode kicks off with Kanshi in dire straits. Having squandered his allowance, he’s unable to contribute to the Otogi household expenses. A tearful plea to Morihito is met with a flyer for a part-time gig at Akebono Amusement Park’s superhero show. Kanshi finds himself thrust into the role of “Ottoman,” a tokusatsu hero.
The Perils of Part-Time
Kanshi’s troubles don’t end there. In another segment, he takes on the task of repacking screws. Averse to hard work, he convinces Nico to cast a spell to speed things up. However, as is typical with Nico’s magic, there’s a catch: the spell warps his perception of time, making him experience the world at an accelerated rate, with some interesting side effects.
Kanshi’s Character Development
A significant aspect of Episode 8 is its focus on Kanshi’s character. Previous episodes have teased a potential rivalry between Kanshi and Morihito, but this episode wisely sets them apart, defining them more fully as individuals. Instead of being relegated to a mere rival or supporting character, Kanshi begins to carve his own path.
Comedy and Absurdity
“Witch Watch Episode 8” leans heavily into absurdity, creating truly hilarious moments. From Kanshi’s over-the-top performance as Ottoman to the warped reality he experiences under Nico’s spell, the episode is packed with comedic gold.
Where to Watch
“Witch Watch” is available on various streaming platforms:
- Netflix
- Crunchyroll
- Hulu
A Promising Direction
“Witch Watch Episode 8” is a standout episode that balances comedy with character development. By giving Kanshi a chance to shine, the series opens up new possibilities for its narrative and strengthens the bonds between its characters.
Manga Origins and Anime Adaptation
“Witch Watch” began as a manga series written and illustrated by Kenta Shinohara, serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump since February 8, 2021. The anime adaptation, produced by Bibury Animation Studios, premiered on April 6, 2025, and has been praised for its faithful adaptation of the source material and its vibrant animation.
Meet the Characters
The series revolves around a core group of characters:
- Nico Wakatsuki: A witch-in-training, skilled in magic but prone to causing chaos.
- Morihito Otogi: Nico’s childhood friend, blessed with the strength of an ogre.
- Kanshi Kazamatsuri: A familiar who sometimes acts as a rival to Morihito.
Anime Staff
The anime adaptation is brought to life by a talented team:
- Director: Hiroshi Ikehata
- Scriptwriter: Deko Akao
- Character Designer: Haruko Iizuka
- Music Composer: Yukari Hashimoto
Reception and Popularity
“Witch Watch” has garnered a dedicated fanbase, both for its manga and anime adaptations. The series’ blend of humor, fantasy, and romance has resonated with audiences, making it a standout title in the shonen genre.
