I watched Majokko Megu-chan #01 today. The use of a partial colour trace to simulate rim lighting is a a novel expression I haven't seen in anime before. The episode director is Yugo Serikawa.
After Blame! Inokawa also directed the Demonbane OVA, also at Group Tac (although many sites falsely credit it to Shoichi Masuo). This one has a lot of cool visual ideas but it definitely doesn't feel as well put-together as Blame! Still worth a watch though, in my opinion.
Although Akiyuki Shinbo's influence would come to dominate Inokawa's style, you can still see traces of his first mentor. When Inokawa directs comedic episodes, Nabeshin's taste usually comes out in the former of extreme wide angles, funny reactions, and emotive iconography.
The reality of the fact hadn't set in for me until now but Taniguchi's animation designs for Madoka Magica have really strayed from the old Kishida models.
Not to mention, this episode has some actually accomplished animation as well. This scene genuinely surprised me, especially the shots of Giant Piyo's feet.
Gakuen Alice #04
絵コンテ・演出：ワタナベシンイチ
作画監督：服部憲知 石川雅一
制作協力：SHAFT
Nabeshin's resource-conscious storyboard allows this episode to shine even given the production circumstances. It also helps to have Shaft lending a hand.
