Creator: Ben Bocquelet
Stars: Dan Russell, Logan Grove, Kwesi Boakye, Teresa Gallagher, Kerry Shale, Kyla Rae Kowalewski, Sandra Dickinson
Running Time: 138 minutes
Certificate: PG
‘Cartoons aren’t what they used to be…’ is the usual ringing endorsement for the younger generations’ animation. We long for the classics that graced the Cartoon Network channel, such as; Dexter’s Laboratory, The Powerpuff Girls, and Cow and Chicken. So quick we are to sneer at the cartoons on offer nowadays. However, there are few gems to entice an older viewer, the likes of Regular Show, Adventure Time and The Amazing World of Gumball.
From its unique visual concoction of traditional animation, puppets, CGI, 8-bit sprites, or even live action (which is also used for the backdrop of the show), the show is defiantly a treat to watch. The visual textures add dimension and intrigue into a world filled with bright energetic oddball characters. The Amazing World of Gumball demonstrates a uniquely stunning interpretation of the modern day cartoon, embracing a variety of techniques the show certainly stands out.
The characters are wacky and lovingly embraced; the voice actors certainly do their part in creating such likable characters. The character of Gumball possesses a sweet charm, which is equally possessed by his brother Darwin. The duo complements each other and adds a quality reminiscent to those much loved classics which use to grace Cartoon Network. There is a great spirit to the show of adventure, innocence and eccentricity.
All the characters vary extensively, but this strangely adds a rich harmony to the shows dynamics. The show follows the misadventures of 12-year-old cat Gumball Watterson and his family. Life on the quiet little suburb is far from normal, as everything has the ability to come to life. The series follows Gumball as he attends middle school with his goldfish brother and best friend Darwin. Supported by their parents and their wise bunny sister Anais, the pair regularly find themselves involved in various shenanigans around town.
With all the creative flare in the visuals the one issue with the show is its lack of creativity when it comes to the basic structure. It is as you expect a run-of-the-mill school sitcom. The characters possess traits easily identifiable to many other cartoons; the idiot father (think Peter Griffin crossed with Homer Simpson) who can’t do anything right, the genius kid, the voice-of-reason mom, and the trouble making boys. The characters are indeed likable but they can be seen in every popular animated family. Also, each episode finds itself recycling tired story and plot lines. If you care to overlook these things you’ll find the show can still be enjoyable.
Since its first season the show has grown from strength to strength. The DVD is defiantly worth a purchase with all 12 episodes, whether it the first of a collection or a perfect gift for the kids at Christmas. The animated series possesses such much that in style, the small naggings of its narrative can be forgiven.
[usr=4] The Amazing World of Gumball is out now on DVD from Warner Bros.
