Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a twelve episode anime aimed for older audiences. The show is set in an unspecified time in the future, where a trio of friends live their ordinary lives until Madoka, the most timid of the bunch, has a vision of the new transfer student, Homura. When they meet her in person, their lives begin to change, for their city is home to two magical girls, and an alien mascot who wants two of the friends to become magical girls as well. Veteran magical girl Mami is all for the new company- but Homura will stop at nothing to make sure that Madoka does not contract. As the situation that the girls are in begins to rapidly change their normal lives, they find themselves constantly asking themselves- should they, or should they not?
==Why you should watch it==
Though relatively new, PMMM is a smash hit and instantly recognizeable with most anime fans. It has a large and active fanbase that is the source for many different memes, hit AMVs, and even some of anime culture. It's short and can be marathoned in about five hours. However, for those who like to go more in-depth, there are also two movies (with a third to be released soon), many drama CDs, and three manga spin-offs. The canon and fanon universes are extremely well put together, and fans are always in good company. 
==Notes==
*This series can be watched in its entirety on Hulu.
*PMMM is dark at points.
*Some refer to this series as "Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica."
==Links==
*Official USA website
*TV Tropes page