TV SERIES REVIEW
Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise
TV-Y7 -     

Genre: Superhero, Action, Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 1990 - 1996, 2024 DVD Complete Franchise
Runtime: 113 x 21m episodes
Director(s): Will Meugniot, Jim Duffy, Stan Phillips, Vincent Davis, Marsha Goodman (voice director) (seasons 1–3)
Writer(s): Doug Molitor (seasons 1–3,) Sean Catherine Derek (seasons 4–6,) Laren Bright (seasons 4–6)
Cast: David Coburn, LeVar Burton, Joey Dedio, Kath Soucie, Janice Kawaye, Scott Menville, Frank Welker, Whoopi Goldberg (seasons 1–3,) Margot Kidder (seasons 4–6)
Where To Watch: coming to DVD on October 15, 2024, from Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment; pre-order your copy here: www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step into the eco-adventure of a lifetime with CAPTAIN PLANET: THE COMPLETE FRANCHISE, a collection of all 113 episodes that shaped a generation's eco-consciousness (we need a modern-day Captain Planet for the “certain” generation more than ever now!) Their powers combined for the first time, this collection features the heroic narratives of the Planeteers, who harness the power of the elements—earth, fire, wind, water, and heart—to summon the iconic hero, Captain Planet, in their fight against environmental adversaries.

The saga of the Planeteers unfolds, with each episode delivering action-packed, environmentally-themed stories that resonate well with today's ever-growing eco-friendly discussions. This set is more than a nostalgic trip; it's a tool, educating through entertainment and inspiring active engagement with real-world issues.

Beyond the series, the legacy of CAPTAIN PLANET is propelled by the Captain Planet Foundation, which champions ecological education and activism worldwide. This initiative proves the series' continuing impact, demonstrating how fictional heroes can inspire real-world change.

CAPTAIN PLANET also played a pivotal role in educational sectors globally. Many schools incorporated episodes into their curriculum to illustrate environmental science and ethics effectively. This educational application extended the series’ reach, making it a tool for teachers to engage students in discussions about sustainability and the importance of ecological stewardship. The show’s integration into educational frameworks underscores its significance as more than just entertainment but a resource that can help mold responsible global citizens. By linking classroom learning with dynamic storytelling, CAPTAIN PLANET continues to inspire a proactive approach to environmental challenges among young learners worldwide. This is, at least, part of why I try to be as environmentally friendly as possible (well, this is an iconic commercial.)

This DVD collection stands out as it appeals to long-time fans and new audiences. Whether you watched it originally on an old tube TV during the initial run or if you’re checking it out for the first time, the series remains relevant and engaging, its messages as poignant as ever.

At the end of each episode, the "Planeteer Alerts" tie the adventures back to tangible environmental and social challenges, showcasing the series' innovative approach to melding story with educational content—a pioneering format at its release. While there was merchandise for the series, this was a significant change from the cartoons of the 1980s that served as giant toy commercials. This was a cartoon with a purpose and heart!

Reflecting on its enduring legacy, CAPTAIN PLANET remains a cornerstone of 'edutainment.' With its forward-thinking narrative that tackled climate change, sustainability, and community activism, the series set the stage for today's discussions on global cooperation and environmental responsibility.

The release of CAPTAIN PLANET: THE COMPLETE FRANCHISE on DVD serves not merely as a trip down memory lane but as a rallying cry for environmental stewardship. With over 43 hours of content, it offers rich, engaging storytelling intertwined with educational insights, providing viewers of all ages valuable lessons in environmentalism wrapped in the cloak of superheroic fantasy.

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[photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY HOME ENTERTAINMENT, DIC ENTERTAINMENT, HANNA-BARBERA PRODUCTIONS, TURNER PROGRAM SERVICES]

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