New Worlds, New Dangers: Teen’s Quest on Orbona

Read Time:4 Minute, 4 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
WondLa
–

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 7 x 24m episodes
Director(s): Andrew L. Schmidt, Lawrence Gong, Philip Pignotti, Micah Gunnell
Writer(s): Mario Carvalhal, Bobs Gannaway, Bob Snow, Christian Magalhaes, Grace Davis, Adam Galen, Kyle McVey, Lauren Bradley
Cast: Jeanine Mason, Teri Hatcher, Brad Garrett, Gary Anthony Williams, Chiké Okonkwo, D.C. Douglas, Alan Tudyk
Where To Watch: premiering on Apple TV+ June 28, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Venturing into the animated universe of WONDLA is akin to embarking on a thrilling expedition into the unknown, where peril and spectacle coalesce seamlessly. This Apple TV+ series transports us into the life of Eva Nine (Jeanine Mason,) a teenager whose entire existence has been within the confines of an underground sanctuary under the watchful guidance of her robotic guardian, Muthr (Teri Hatcher.) As she marks a significant turning point in her life, the tranquility of her world is shattered, thrusting her into the mysterious and dangerous terrains of the unknown planet above. The adaptation of Tony DiTerlizzi’s celebrated book series captivates its audience with a profound blend of speculative fiction and deep emotional engagement.

From the outset, the visual storytelling in WONDLA sets a new bar for animated series. The planet is brought to life with extraordinary detail that blurs the fantastical into a world that seems so stunning. This artistic design supports and elevates the narrative, ensuring that each episode's visual splendor leaves a lasting imprint on its viewers.

Working with the creative team, DiTerlizzi, whose hands-on involvement guarantees that the series remains true to the spirit of his beloved books. His visionary eye permeates every element of the series—from the lush environments to the engaging character dynamics—fostering a connection that resonates with die-hard fans and first-time viewers.

Eva's journey of self-discovery and her quest for human connections are central to the series. She navigates a series of trials and forms alliances with characters like Rovender (Gary Anthony Williams,) an emotionally complex alien; Otto (Brad Garrett,) the empathetic giant water bear; and Muthr, her loyal friend and caretaker. These relationships are the cornerstone of the narrative, providing layers of conflict and companionship that are crucial to Eva’s development.

The voice acting, with standout performances by Mason, Hatcher, and others, adds depth to the characters. Their heartfelt portrayals enhance the emotional engagement of the series, making the characters' journeys feel all the more real to the audience. While I haven’t read the books, I can still feel a poetic exploration of the characters and their evolution through the first part of this series.

This series is an extremely easy watch. With only seven episodes, each under a half hour, it feels like a slightly extended film. You could easily binge it all in one sitting. WONDLA integrates fantasy and science fiction elements, underscored by potent environmental themes that explore the complex relationship between technology and nature while being incredibly easy for the entire family to enjoy. The narrative also tackles grand themes like personal identity and ecological preservation, seamlessly woven into the story to prompt reflection on these critical issues while providing escapism.

WONDLA is a monumental success in animation, combining stunning visuals with compelling storytelling and significant themes. It demonstrates the power of animation to deliver complex stories with emotional depth. An essential watch for anyone interested in narratives of exploration and self-discovery, it enhances Apple TV+'s already stellar reputation for providing high-quality, engaging content. This series transcends being merely another title in the streaming world, marking itself as a landmark project that profoundly impacts viewers from all walks of life. I’m excited to see the next chapter in this grand journey!

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[photo courtesy of APPLE TV+, SKYDANCE ANIMATION]

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