Reference

"Sally the Witch" (魔法使いサリー, Mahōtsukai Sally), often regarded as the first magical girl anime, has had a profound influence on the magical girl genre that followed. Here are some key aspects of its impact:

1. Genre Originator: "Sally the Witch" is credited as a foundational anime in the magical girl genre. It popularized the concept of a young girl with magical powers coming from a mystical realm to live among humans. This premise set the stage for countless magical girl series to come.

2. Cultural Hybridity: Created by Mitsuteru Yokoyama, "Sally the Witch" was inspired by the American TV series "Bewitched." This blending of Western concepts with Eastern storytelling became a common trait in magical girl anime.

3. Character Archetypes and Themes: Sally embodies the Cute Witch archetype, which became a pivotal model for future series. The themes of maturity, friendship, and growing up featured in "Sally the Witch" continue to be explored and evolved in magical girl stories, from "Cardcaptor Sakura" to "Puella Magi Madoka Magica."

4. Influence on Magical Items and Transformations: While not originally from "Sally the Witch," the concept of magical transformations and items (such as wands and enchanted objects) became central elements in later series, influenced indirectly by the framework that "Sally the Witch" helped establish.

5. Remakes and Revival: The series itself was remade in 1989-1991, featuring updated magical girl sensibilities, such as a magic wand and a talking cat familiar. These elements, particularly transformation sequences and animal companions, became staples in subsequent magical girl series like "Sailor Moon."

Images related to "Sally the Witch":

For a comprehensive overview, you might also check the Magical Girl Wiki, which details the series' creation and influence.