CODE LYOKO: ViewerVision

Code Lyoko was a French dual-animated television series created by Thomas Romain and Tania Palumbo. Set in modern-day Paris, it focuses on a small group of teenagers (led by young science prodigy Jeremy Belpois) who discover a virtual world called Lyoko within the Supercomputer of an old abandoned factory warehouse near their school. It's here where they come to meet an innocent and long-forgotten girl named Aelita, along with a malicious and incredibly dangerous A.I. program known simply as X.A.N.A.. With the help of the eccentric Odd Della Robbia, the reticent Ulrich Stern and the headstrong Yumi Ishiyama, Jeremy takes it upon himself to try and bring Aelita back home to Earth. But it doesn't come without a series of gruelling challenges, many of which see the lives of millions at risk. The heroes are forced to fight against X.A.N.A. and stop it from completely taking over the world. It's a monstrous responsibility in the hands of five young souls. Here are seven questions regarding commonly thought opinions from the general audience about Code Lyoko:

1. How is it possible?

X.A.N.A. is of course made to look menacing and is programmed for death, destruction and domination. But now and then you happen to find yourself asking how it does what it does. Sure it's somewhat sound and logical when we a talking about power grids, satellites and vehicles. Even polymorphic spectres make a bit of sense in a way. But to think X.A.N.A. can possess non-living and insentient everyday objects comes across as a little comical. Like controlling large masses of food and using them to attack people in the form of a tidal wave (hence the title of the episode being 'Tidal Wave'). Or possessing a stuffed bear and make it grow in size ('Teddygozilla'). Heck it can even manage to do the physically impossible and multiply real objects and other human creations (this is the case with Jeremy's creation, Kiwi 2 in 'Canine Conundrum'). I'm all for a serious and threatening series-long antagonist, but there are lines that must be drawn. Having a computer virus floating around to possess food and make it grow arms and legs to chase people around is just farfetched. X.A.N.A. seems a little too overpowered if you ask me.

2. Where's the continuity?

Perhaps it is a good idea we don't get too worked up about this one. The main reason for this is because Code Lyoko is an animated show. Think about the cost, the time and most importantly the production work. Animated shows don't always have chapters or episodes released in order, as it heavily depends on both the speed and difficulty of the production process. The crew are left focusing on a few episodes in production at once, with those that are ahead often prioritised first. When aiming for a particular order of release, crew members place further pressure onto themselves. And even if things go according to plan, the overall story still may not run as smoothly. Hence why most animated shows prefer to avoid having characters mention what happens in past episodes. That, and the episodes being separate stories (just with a similar framework to maintain a familiar identity). This show also does revolve around a small form of time travel with the 'returning to the past', and things involving time travel are extremely difficult to handle without breaking rules or making a few continuity errors.

But sometimes this show can be good to have a laugh about when it comes to the chain of events throughout the whole series, and how they don't always add up. Take episodes 29 ('Exploration') and 30 ('A Great Day') for example. In 29, Yumi is forced to take a break from the work on Lyoko due to the parents' frustration with her regular late-night absences. At the end of the episode, she informs her parents that the reason for this was because she was in love with someone. This is immediately followed by 30, when the father has the exact same issue with Yumi and then 'suspects' there is a boy involved (indicating to us he wasn't told about it). A lot of people on social media have picked up on this continuity error. I myself, found it rather amusing. Of course there have been a few more that revolve around other characters such as Jim Morales (e.g. his knowledge of Odd's dog Kiwi) and even Sissi (Elisabeth Delmas). But there are probably too many to discuss here. So I thought I'd just stick with the one I remember most. At times the lack of continuity can be the tiniest bit irritating, but overall I don't see it being anything to complain about too much.

3. Why do the kids make fighting on Lyoko harder than it looks?

This one is probably just me, but then again I maintain the belief that it would run through a lot of our heads. Lyoko and what takes place there is at most times shown in a way that makes us think 'I could do this easily'. This mainly refers to facing off against X.A.N.A.'s monsters. There have been so many occasions when the warriors would be completely aware of one small monster in front of them, and still get defeated by them. I mean sure these kids are probably more athletically gifted then me. But they have been shown again and again to have slow reaction times. This leaves me thinking that virtual existence is different from that on Earth. Perhaps, they move at a different speed or even feel a different sort of physical reception (like mild paralysis) when taking damage. It was already gathered from around the beginning of the series that the only hearing and sight are senses in the virtual world. However, the warriors have shown numerous times without being affected by X.A.N.A. they experience some sort of pain that now and then immobilises them. Anyway, I'm digressing here.

Let's just assume it is an animation problem. But it amuses me how the things that look so simple are made so complicated. Not only do the warriors struggle with a couple of tiny monsters, they are made to make some silly decisions. Like there was an episode in season four where Yumi was facing against William (possessed by X.A.N.A.). She was forced to in a way retreat from battle due to struggling against him. She proceeds to flip across a log instead of running, only to get hit by William and then devirtualised. Come on, we get it. Flipping around is one of Yumi's special abilities on Lyoko, but she shouldn't be that stupid to use it as a way of escape. These kids are portrayed as both smart and gutsy for their age in most situations, especially on Earth. But every now and then, it's the opposite when they're sent to the virtual world. Some battles do look difficult like those involving tarantulas. Losing to a single kankrelat however, is just absurd. I understand the need to create a challenge in the show, but dumbing the heroes down or making them somewhat inept is not the best way to go about it. 

4. What is with this school? 

I obviously have no experience or understanding of foreign schools, nor do I know about any of their rules and curriculums. But if they are anything like what Code Lyoko has shown me, then I should be greatly satisfied with my years of education. While Kadic Academy in this show can most times look like a nice place to be (and safe when unaffected by X.A.N.A.), I also see it like a prison to some extent. It's big and there are not many students. Some of the rules are a little over the top. You have one or two cooks in the cafeteria working a full shift on their own. The areas of study in the subjects seem far too advanced for kids around the age of thirteen (though I guess a small bit of that is due to Australia supposedly being behind a few other countries when it comes to education). Not to forget the staff there come off as both being stubborn and a little stupid. I'm not only talking about Jim here. Everyone from the principal to the school gardener.

What irks me the most is the treatment of the students along with some of the punishments. You have teachers naming and shaming kids in front of the rest of the class when they fail certain assignments. You have other teachers insulting their students behind their back (like in 'Nobody In Particular'). In the episode 'Saint Valentines Day', you have Jeremy receiving two hours of detention just for falling off his chair. Isn't that a little extreme? Not only that, it doesn't seem like one needs to do much for expulsion to be considered. Take for instance Odd getting caught for trying to steal a school laptop ('Rock Bottom?') without permission, and on the back of little to no history of breaking rules (would be the case given all the returns to the past and the fact very few know his dog lives with him at the school). I mean it's not like he assaulted another student or damaged and defaced property. I'm telling you, this school is like a prison. The consequences are so dire. It's a step towards stealing a handkerchief and getting shot for it. The Code Lyoko version of Kadic Academy is very excessive and a tad too harsh in its discipline. Take it down a notch.

5. Why did X.A.N.A. love picking on Yumi?

There was no disguising this from us. It can be argued Yumi throughout the entire series, was X.A.N.A.'s number one target. They even had an entire period in season one, consisting of four episodes running from seven ('Image Problem') to ten ('The Girl Of The Dreams'), where she'd be the main victim of X.A.N.A.'s attacks. She'd be imprisoned by a guardian, strangled by a movie prop, almost destroyed by a satellite laser and nearly sliced by samurai armour. Later on in the show's run, she would even be tortured by tree roots and attacked by possessed bikers. I don't think it's just X.A.N.A. that had an issue with her though, as it sort of extended outside Code Lyoko with the story-writers. They just loved making Yumi look inferior in so many ways. Whether it be falling into the digital sea or getting lost in it. Not to forget the recorded data in my previous piece shows her to be the weakest out of herself, Odd and Ulrich. She destroyed the least amount of monsters and was the one to get devirtualised the most. Whoever was responsible for driving these ideas, they didn't hide it very well. One mention of Yumi Ishiyama, then it's one step closer to complete and utter sadism.

6. What's with that same equation?

Funny how complicated the work discussed by teachers seems to be, yet the same simple (and at times, unrelated to the topic in discussion) equation model for linear functions appears on the blackboard for much of the show's first half (mainly the first season). I'm speaking of course about 'y=ax+b'. It's a little detail some viewers naturally picked up along the way and still find it amusing to this day. The linear equation model is seen during mathematics classes and even science classes here and there. Now why could that be? Was it just placed there for the sake of it? Was it written and then left for ages without being erased? Whatever the case is, it hasn't stopped a small fraction of the audience from bringing the little detail to the front. I wasn't one to capture it, but I couldn't get away from others pointing it out. Reality could be that because of the show's extremely low budget, the crew and animators had to stick with it. It's either that or they couldn't find anything else to have written so clear on the chalkboard. They probably wanted something that was simple while looking sophisticated (if for that reason, I can't blame them). Nothing else can be said about it.

7. Why is Yumi's forehead so big?

Haha! I know I can't avoid talking about this one a little. When I see it, I too have to joke about it. Yumi's forehead is pretty big. In fact a lot of the characters have large foreheads, especially the students. We tend to ask why that is, but truthfully there isn't any proper answer other than Code Lyoko itself wanting to own a unique animated appearance. I mean it's generally closer than most animated shows when it comes to the human facial proportions. Most series are likely to have the eyes around the forehead area, which is a common yet misleading idea. I praise the series for taking a different route here. Even though, the jokes won't ever cease to exist. And no, there isn't any brain correlation (e.g. big head = big brain). I think we can all agree on that, since most of the characters are occasionally shown to be both childish and stupid. Let's just leave it at them having big heads, and there being quite a bit of space inside each of them. Hahaha!

Travis "TJ" James

The MooVee In Me

If you thought it was only music and television that I had interest in, think again. I do happen to have a decent interest in the cinema as well, along with the tiniest bit of knowledge about it. But much like both music and television, my taste in film can pretty much be described in the same way. Broad yet selective. I can like most genres of film so long as the specific elements of any particular film I'm watching are ones I can connect really well with. Hence why these ten movies I focus on that I've enjoyed the most over the years are quite different from each other. These ones I have either grown up with or managed to find some connections to at a very late age. It can be the characters, the story or simply what it can involve (e.g. Magic and imagination). There are times when I can see what most others do in a movie, but there are also times when certain films get a stronger reaction out of me. It all comes from how deeply I connect with them. Allow me to share some of these connections with you:


Alice In Wonderland (2010)

Directed by Tim Burton & Screenplay by Linda Woolverton

Alice Kingsleigh (Mia Wasikowska) is no ordinary girl. She grows up, long believing her dreams are a reality. But after losing her father, she is pushed ever so harder into accepting that they aren't real. Along with it comes an arranged marriage within a high-class society. Not knowing how to accept the proposal, Alice instead takes the option of following a white rabbit down a hole to a place eerily similar to the one of her dreams. A world beneath the Earth's surface called 'Underland', full of strange characters with a few having awaited her arrival including the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp). But things don't go so smoothly, as Alice's identity is often left to be questioned. It then becomes a race against time as 'Frabjous Day' approaches, the day that will determine the fate of Underland. It's up to Alice to prove she's the one who will save all by slaying the Jabberwocky and helping the White Queen (Anne Hathaway) win back control of the land from her relentless sister, the Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter).

It's not often when a Tim Burton project gets my full attention. When I was presented with one of the trailers to this movie back in 2009, I was yearning to observe the entire thing. Getting to do so come the release of it on DVD, I was not left disappointed. I knew to expect something very outlandish since it was a take on Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. But unlike the other versions I have seen of the tale, the dreariness of the world along with the surreal and wacky components in this one kept me enthralled from start to finish. I absolutely loved how the language correlated with the bizarre, washed-out setting. I too found appreciation for the added dimensions given by Johnny Depp to the Mad Hatter, making him more than just 'mad'. Same with Hathaway and the White Queen not only being all about elegance. The childish, uptight attitude of the Red Queen seemed very logical. And each of the supporting characters had their own separate qualities that prevented them from clashing with each other and coming off as tedious. Yes it didn't exactly win many of the critics over. I however am able to detect the effort put into every little detail. The time and money spent saw a final product so unique and worthy of praise.


Cool Runnings (1993)

Directed by Jon Turteltaub & Loosely Based on a True Story

Derice Bannock (Leon Robinson) has long dreamed to compete in the Olympics and represent his country of Jamaica as a sprinter. But when he fails at the Olympic trial, he looks at another way to show his colours to the world. With best friend and Jamaican push cart champion Sanka Coffie (Doug E. Doug), the two seek out the help of disgraced American bobsledder and two-time gold medalist Irving Blitzer (John Candy), as they plan on making history. To swap the summer sun for the winter cold and become part of Jamaica's first ever bobsled team. Of course it doesn't come without the ridicule from almost everyone around them. But they, along with recruits Junior Bevil (Rawle D. Lewis) and Yul Brenner (Malik Yoba) believe that it isn't impossible to win over the world's respect and etch their names in the history books.

For a while, I never heard of Cool Runnings. I wasn't even familiar with the true story of Jamaican bobsledders. But that all changed when I was shown the film within my final months of primary school. It was then I immediately found myself tied to it. I was like 'I have to get this movie for my collection. It's too good to turn my back on'. So it wasn't long after, I purchased it on DVD. Cool Runnings is the type of movie that might seem common but it isn't. It's a powerful story decorated with things that do nothing but make one smile. Bright colours and bubbly attitudes almost everywhere one looks. It's a movie complete with contents so different from one another, yet they're tied together very well. It could merely be the embodiment of a family-friendly work of art. Even though it was released way before I was born, it was as if it was made for me. So much so, that I tend to believe it of all movies has had the greatest impact on my life. Hadn't I come across Cool Runnings the way I did, I honestly don't know where I'd be right now. Not seeing it for myself would certainly have been an unmitigated disaster.


Ghost (1990)

Directed by Jerry Zucker, Produced by Lisa Weinstein & Written by Bruce Joel Rubin

Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze) and Molly Jensen (Demi Moore) are a healthy couple deeply in love with each other. They decide to renovate and apartment in Manhattan (New York) and call it home. After moving in, things are looking well until one night Sam gets mugged and killed by gunshot in front of Molly while both are walking home. Sam becomes a ghost, with no way a reaching out to Molly. But it doesn't stop him from trying to protect her whilst figuring out the truth behind his cause of death. He comes across Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg), a mountebank with a criminal history who goes on to discover through Sam of her ability to communicate with the deceased. The two work together to ensure that Molly remains safe and that the people responsible for Sam's death are brought to justice.

My family originally had this recorded on VHS. I remember taking it now and then from the shelves and watching it on my own VCR back when I was just finishing primary school. Truth be told, I shouldn't have done so as I was a little too young to be watching this sort of film. But there were a few things about Ghost that really caught my full attention. The beautiful romance, the intensity of the back half, Whoopi's incredible acting, the occasional funny moments, etc. But I think the most alluring aspect would have to be the heart-wrenching final minutes with the original, orchestral version of 'Unchained Melody' composed by Alex North, playing in the background. My mother still tears up every time she watches that bit and I do sometimes as well. I personally loved the film so much, that it led to me calling for it on DVD. To view it in better quality whenever I wanted to. It has taught me the importance of love, trust and believing in spiritual life. While the film can depress me on the odd occasion given the topic it focuses around (life and death), it still remains in my opinion as an underrated masterpiece.


Happy Gilmore (1996)

Directed by Dennis Dugan & Produced by Robert Simonds

Adam Sandler plays Happy Gilmore, an ill-tempered ice hockey enthusiast who can't ever seem to make a career out of the sport he loves. His poor attitude along with his lack of both skill and success would see him lose his girlfriend. The pressure further mounts on after he learns his grandmother (Frances Bay) failed to pay taxes for a few years, which results in her house being repossessed along with everything inside. This pushes Happy to try harder making some money, even if it meant playing a sport he usually loathes; golf. With the help of ex-professional golfer Chubbs Peterson (Carl Weathers), Happy changes his sticks for clubs and takes advantage of his incredible drives, doing everything he can to get his grandmother's house back. But things take an interesting turn when one of the current stars and hot favourites to win the tour in Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald) gets in his way.

Whenever I think of Adam Sandler, this is the first thing that comes to mind. One of the more-grounded comedy films, filled with natural humour and many iconic scenes. The soundtrack is unforgettable. The celebrity cameos and product placements are so welcoming. There is not one moment where I sit through this entire film without laughing at least once. One time it might be Shooter's frustration. Another time it might be the heckler or even the fight involving Bob Barker. On top of all this, Happy is one of Sandler's very few characters that doesn't seem to irritate me as much. My brother and I have constantly pulled moments out of this movie over the years and laughed about them. I even shared the joy of Happy Gilmore with friends and other fellow students at school. It was another film recorded on VHS that I simply had to enjoy in better quality on DVD (a good thing too since a couple of scenes were cut from the version recorded on video). Without a doubt, I consider this to be the best film Sandler has done so far and I believe it will be very difficult to top it.


Johnny English (2003)

Directed by Peter Howitt & Written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and William Davies

The star of Mr. Bean and Blackadder Rowan Atkinson, becomes a passionate yet clumsy spy for her majesty's secret service; MI7. He is known as Johnny English. In the first of three films, Johnny is assigned a task to protect the Queen's crown jewels, which are threatened to be stolen whilst on display at the Tower of London. But after failing to do so, it leads to a chain of events that sees the Queen's time on the throne in jeopardy. It's all left in the hands of Johnny, his partner on field in Angus Bough (Ben Miller) and INTERPOL agent Lorna Campbell (Natalie Imbruglia) to save the country and the world from one's evil and twisted plan.

You could say I am a huge fan of Rowan Atkinson and his work. It all started with Mr. Bean when I was very young, as a few episodes were recorded on video. Then came an entire box set of Mr. Bean content which included the entire live action series and the two full-length feature films (Bean: The Movie & Mr. Bean's Holiday). But over the years I looked towards Atkinson's work outside of the popular character. It ended up seeing me collect both the entire series of Blackadder and The Thin Blue Line. I also have loose clips of his work both on stage and on Not The Nine O'Clock News. I greatly admire Atkinson for how simple yet perfect his comedy is. From facial expressions to his emphasis in certain words. He never has to overdo it in the comedy business. Many consider him as a modern Charlie Chaplin. While Atkinson himself sets very high expectations and strives for perfection all while dismissing any work he has little control over, almost every single one of his performances is highly praised amongst the people. And Johnny English is just one of the many projects of his that I deeply fell in love with.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the sequel and anticipate the third film, it's the original that gets the most chuckles out of me. For some reason I felt like the humour came out stronger and a little more frequently in this one. A few of the scenes are easier to recall and they seem to resonate better when I share a laugh about them with a couple of my friends. I even still laugh a little when I think about them at any moment, in particular the scene where Johnny English breaks into the wrong building and the other one shortly after where he confuses himself with the truth serum and muscle relaxant rings. Plus, I found Pascal Sauvage (John Malkovich) as a much more memorable antagonist compared to the sequel's one in Simon Ambrose (Dominic West). The film may have not been as well received by critics, but then again, most comedy films aren't as it's all a matter of taste (read here for a little more about this: The Devotion To Emotion). In my eyes, Rowan Atkinson can do no wrong.


Rat Race (2001)

Directed by Jerry Zucker & Written by Andy Breckman

Donald Sinclair (John Cleese), a wealthy billionaire and eccentric owner of The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, organises a game to gamble with other rich businessmen. He places six tokens within selected machines in the casino, and the winners of the tokens are informed of a chance to become two million dollars richer. A duffel bag containing the money in cash is left stored inside a locker at a train station in Silver City, New Mexico. The racers are left with finding anyway they can to travel more than 500 miles and reach the prize first. A race between the narcoleptic Italian Enrico Pollini (Rowan Atkinson), the disgraced Armerican football referee Owen Templeton (Cuba Godding Jr.), the adoring single mother Vera Baker (Whoopi Goldberg), the scamming rogue Duane Cody (Seth Green), the somewhat prim attorney Nicholas Schaffer (Breckin Meyer) or the irresponsible family tourist Randy Pear (Jon Lovitz).

Rat Race was what I once believed to be a gold nugget. It was hard to find for a while and rarely was it ever played on free-to-air television when I was younger. But I didn't ever stop trying to find it in hopes of getting a better view for myself. In the end I found a copy, and didn't hesitate one bit to take it home with me. Rat Race is not the sort of film that is made often. A comedy brought by an ensemble of numerous highly respected actors and comedians. Most ensemble movies today are usually just romances or a series of short separate films bundled up together. But this one is special, and sort of reminiscent to the much older works such as Around The World In 80 Days and It's A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. Not to mention it features both Rowan Atkinson and John Cleese, two of UK's comedic royalty. Along with them is Whoopi Goldberg and Seth Green, another two I have huge respect for. I find Rat Race to be a super fun getaway, with many hilarious moments that even leave my friends gasping for air. Absolutely underrated! And get this, I was amazed to find out that this film was directed by the same man that directed Ghost (two out of only six films Zucker had directed). These were two films I held separate interest in and never did I connect them in any way.


Tarzan (1999)

Directed by Kevin Lima & Chris Buck, Produced by Bonnie Arnold & Based on the novel Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs

The story of a young human boy, who raised by gorillas. His parents escape their burning ship and land on the shores of DR Congo. They manage to build a tree house for the family to live in. However, the parents are killed by a leopard and their baby boy is left all alone up in the tree house. That is until Kala (Glenn Close), a female gorilla who lost her child to the same leopard, hears its cries. She finds the infant and escapes with him back to the herd. Named Tarzan (Tony Goldwyn), the baby boy grows up with the gorillas and other jungle animals, but finds himself now and then questioning his difference in appearance. It later resurfaces when some human explorers arrive, a group which includes the much-admired Jane Porter (Minnie Driver). However, leader of the band Kerchak (Lance Henriksen) suspects the humans are here to threaten the gorillas' way of life.

When it comes to Walt Disney's traditional animated features, the last of the Renaissance period was the one I gave my heart to. Perhaps because it was because Tarzan was one of only two Disney animated films we owned on video (the other being Pinocchio, which I enjoyed but not as much when compared). And I'm guessing my mother chased after it because Phil Collins performed the soundtrack (an artist she quite enjoys listening to, as do I right now). My joy for Tarzan felt quite natural, and like most others I learnt more and more about it as I grew older. Each time I watched it, I was picking up something new and unfamiliar. First it be the clarity of the lines and lyrics of the songs and then the strength of the messages about identity and difference. One of the last things I'd come to realise was the presence of some pretty dark implications and visuals such as Sabor killing Tarzan's biological parents and the shadow of a lifeless Clayton (Brian Blessed) hanging from a vine. Sheesh! Nevertheless, I never lost interest in the film. As a matter of fact, I gained more as time went by. Tarzan is amazingly well-detailed, funny, intense and remains as one of Disney's more underrated successes.


Toy Story (1995)

Directed by John Lasseter

Andy (John Morris) loves playing with all his toys. But his favourite toy of all would be his cowboy doll; Sheriff Woody (Tom Hanks). When Andy isn't around, all the toys come to life and anticipate the next play session. But things go awry when a new toy by the name of Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) arrives as a birthday present for Andy before he and the family moves house. All the toys are intrigued bar Woody, who becomes jealous and concerned with his status as Andy's favourite toy. Woody's long-lasting battle with Buzz sees both disappear on Andy and end up right in the hands of next-door neighbour Sid (Erik von Detten), a young boy who seeks amusement through torturing toys. Woody and Buzz are then left to sort out their differences and work together to escape Sid's house in one piece and get to Andy before he and his family shift to their new home.

I'd deserve to have egg on my face if I didn't hold this one close to my heart. Not only is it the first ever full-length CGI feature film, but I like to think it is the first ever film I remember sitting down and watching from start to finish at a very young age. The first of Pixar's movies would still remain my favourite to this day. While animation has made great strides in recent years to have this looking relatively more and more hideous, Toy Story forever remains a classic story-wise. It is something of pure nostalgia and most kids of my generation would look to this as the main source of their childhood. That when the fourth installment of the franchise comes around, this would be the reason for their eagerness to see it. And it's a fun film for all of the family. I get the most joy out of the first film and I like to believe my brother does as well, considering that he was a toddler when it came out. Unfortunately I can't get to view it much nowadays given I no longer have much access to videos and I don't have this one on DVD, but I would always happily make time to watch this again and again. To recapture that childhood feeling and look at everything the way I used to. And there is no forgetting the famous lines and even that iconic song. The very first second you hear it, you'll always know what it is; 'You've Got A Friend In Me'.


Trainspotting (1996)

Directed by Danny Boyle, Produced by Andrew Macdonald, Screenplay by John Hodge & Based on the novel of the same name by Irvine Welsh

In an economically troubled region of Scotland, Mark Renton (nicknamed 'Rent Boy') (Ewan McGregor) fights an ongoing heroin addiction whilst living in squalor. But it becomes even harder than he expects, especially with drug-influenced friends Daniel Murphy (nicknamed 'Spud') (Ewen Bremner) and Simon Williamson (nicknamed 'Sick Boy') (Jonny Lee Miller) now and then weighing him down. Not to forget the extremely aggressive and occasionally psychotic Francis Begbie (nicknamed 'Franco') (Robert Carlyle), who has a knack for violence and criminal behaviour. Whichever way it is, it's all up to Renton to cleanse himself of his unhealthy life choices.

Twenty years after Trainspotting, a follow-up would be released. I chose to view the trailer to it on YouTube, though I will admit that it was only me having a look at some of Carlyle's work outside of Once Upon A Time. I tried to see if I could make anything out of it, because I at the time didn't even come to watch the first movie. But most of the people in the comment section were recommending that others who hadn't seen Trainspotting to go and check it out. Some even mentioned how it influenced them to keep well away from drugs. Though avoiding drugs was something I decided long before I set an eye on the movie, I still took the opportunity in seeing it when it aired on TV (around the time the new one was being promoted). Like most films, it took a few minutes to really invest in it. But coming out of the viewing, I was surprised with my response. I could see what others saw and I could feel that necessary pain and discomfort. Trainspotting isn't exactly a film I thought I'd be well into, but it happened. It even saw me hurrying to chase after the sequel. Bought both parts at once, without having seen much of the second.


Zootopia (2016)

Directed by Byron Howard & Rich Moore, Screenplay by Jared Bush & Phil Johnston

In this animated adventure we follow Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), a bunny rabbit that long aspires to be a police officer of the Zootopia Police Department. But both along the way and reaching that goal, she comes to realise that the city and its inhabitants weren't initially what she thought they would be. She however remains undeterred and fights hard to solve her first missing mammals case, later upon learning that it is a part of an even bigger problem that threatens the entire city of Zootopia. Of course she doesn't do it alone, as she enlists the help of fox and con-artist Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). The two embark on a journey throughout the city to not just solve the problem, but prove to everyone that any mammal, big or small, predator or prey, can achieve anything if they put their mind to it.

I am not going to dig too deep into this one because I already have (ZOOTOPIA: The Best In Animation). However, there is no ignoring this one and how it managed to stand out for me compared to most films over the past few years. Let's get one thing straight here. I am NOT a 'Furry', nor am I part of any 'Furry' fandom. And I don't have any problem with anyone who is. But the truth is, one doesn't have to be a 'Furry' to enjoy this animated feature for what it is. This is sheer perfection. An inviting world, full of diverse creatures, two likable main characters, an amazingly expansive score and an extremely powerful story to go with it all. It's nearly impossible to hate anything here. This film achieved more than what most expected, and rightly so. It's relatable. It's educational. It can reflect on today's society and most importantly. It aims to entertain. If you have not seen Zootopia, I highly recommend it. You might not end up liking it as much as I do, but it's always worth the shot. Never did I think that I'd find myself liking a recently-made film as much as I did with this one.


Honourable Mentions:


Ginger Snaps (2000)
I don't know what it is, but I am just not as into horror films. I'd be lying if they didn't scare me a little at times, but I tend to think it's due to the overwhelming clichés used in most of them (e.g. the overpowering monsters, the poor choices made by characters and the predictable direction of the stories). But if I have to choose one horror flick to stick with for the rest of my life, it would be this Canadian-made one about two sisters Brigette (Emily Perkins) and Ginger (Katherine Isabelle) and a werewolf bite to the eldest that slowly begins to suppress their relationship. It's not an overly scary movie nor is it well-known, but I tend to find both the progression and ending to be things that set a good example for horror films in general.


Grease (1978)
There was a period during eighth grade when I almost wore out my mother's disc of this film. It was a time when music class was even showing it to me. I was enjoying getting an idea of the 1950's rock'n'roll era along with the style, the language and the overall atmosphere. It was one of the more recognised musical works featuring Australia's own Olivia Newton-John. It may come across to the majority of today's generation as cheesy and over the top, but I manage to see beyond that most of the time. Didn't list it as one of my top ten films though due to not having returned to it much since.


The Lion King (1994)
It would be a criminal act for me to not even mention this one here. However, I must admit the sad truth. I did not grow up with The Lion King and it was never shown to me as a kid. But one of my brother's best friends was known to have many movies burnt on DVD. His family having left a few behind for us, I gradually got to check some of them out growing up. The Lion King was included in this bunch. I never actually noticed how successful it was, nor did I figure out why it was so well-praised. That was until I watched it during my teenage years. There came a couple of periods when this movie was on loop in my DVD player. While not a completely original tale, this animated sensation gets my respect through its visual beauty and epic score. Along with that comes a highly talented voice cast and some of Disney's most recognisable songs. The Lion King is a movie I never connected that strongly with given how late to the party I was, but it was one of the easiest to connect with. The reasons why were pretty much the same ones shared by everybody else.


Travis "TJ" James

Kids TeeVee To Watch

If you asked me about most of the stuff today, I would be quick to say that it is vastly inferior to the content that preceded it from the past few decades. The music, the film, the sport and even the visual art. Everything has looked to become more about profit than quality. Preschool television is no different. I've spoken about how toxic and unjustly popular most children's television has become (Kids TeeVee Gone Wrong). And I've explored a few shows that have been carried forward in a much less appreciated state (Kids TeeVee Better Before). It's all quite clear to me. But that's not to say there isn't good quality programmes today for parents to encourage their children to enjoy. The great modern projects and works require a fair amount of effort to find, and it can be said the hard searching always pays off. You'll eventually come to find some incredibly impactful creations from considerate minds. The minds that understand what stimuli little ones need to experience both seeing and hearing at their very young age.

I genuinely believe that children's television needs to enhance a child's understanding of the world they live in. It needs to have them learning new words, new actions and new ways to solve problems. A true kid's show should have the child slowly but surely developing a rational sense of their surroundings. Preschool programmes are like another form of parenting. They look after the young ones and teach them about simple things when mum and dad can't find the time. So I see it as being important to show kids the right content. It needs to be more than bright, colourful and visually stimulating (e.g. Yo Gabba Gabba). It needs to avoid encouraging children to speak gibberish (e.g. Baby Jake). And it should never teach kids to act reckless and selfish (e.g. Peppa Pig). Last thing any parent wishes to see is their kid growing up and regularly misbehaving, especially after learning from the wrong stuff on TV. It surprises me to have come across at least eight shows that do more good than harm. One or two even earn my full respect. Thought I'd briefly share what they are about and why I found them to be so fantastically written. A reminder that this is just my opinion and it means just as much as yours. So feel free to share your own views in the comments section below.

I'm not sure if this programme is quite popular in Australia, but it does get played. At first I didn't think much of it, but not long after I began seeing its objective and found it to be of decent value. The series focuses on Fleeker (the captain), Boomer (the trainee) and Flo (the first officer), a trio of what's called 'Floogals', tiny aliens that are sent from another planet in the galaxy to Earth in hopes of both learning and gathering data about humankind (or as they would call it, 'hoomankind'). Each episode centers on a mission set by the Floogals themselves; to work out what something is as well as its purpose. Most times sees the Floogals stumbling across the answers unintentionally. While it doesn't seem like a strong and overly creative concept, Floogals has a way of strongly connecting with the young audience. Fleeker, Boomer and Flo are much meant to represent this audience, beginning at a point of little knowledge and slowly but surely coming to understand the living creatures, household objects or human activities that may catch their attention. And this programme also welcomes very young viewers through its colourful, animated trio of curious visitors from outer space. So Floogals isn't at all selective. If parents happen to find this show, they should not be afraid in showing it to their kids.

It can be no surprise. When one hears the name Jim Henson, they think of puppets. I mean after all, the late great man was a puppeteer. But the work this legend of entertainment left behind as gone through some significant changes. His company has expanded beyond puppetry to even explore animation, and many projects it's responsible for have been made not just in the United States but in other countries as well (including my home country Australia). However the most important thing that I believe this company wants to be known for, isn't exactly something like The Muppets. The Jim Henson Company is wanting to be known for educating young children all around the globe about the world they have been welcomed into. They want to be seen for encouraging children to think, feel and use their senses. Doesn't sound like much but it carries a huge load. I'm sure if Henson were still alive today, he would be proud of where his business currently sits.

Jim Henson's Pajanimals is no exception when it comes to the company's modern goal. It's a show about four young, friendly animals (Apollo the dog, Squacky the duck, Cowbella the cow and Sweetpea Sue the horse) playing games and learning new things before they go to sleep at night. This may be no Sesame Street, but it does well with pointing youngsters in the right direction. Jim Henson's Pajanimals pushes itself to connect with young ones by educating them about the problems they will mostly come to experience at their current age. Whether it is quarrels or having accidents, each problem sees the Pajanimals unable to sleep until a relieving solution is found. It leads to the show taking a very small yet magical journey, as each bed becomes enchanted and takes the Pajanimals anywhere from under the sea to up the clouds to visit wise friends for enlightenment. This series knows how to be inviting and recognises a kid's attraction to visual beauty. These whimsical lands of calmness and/or colour keep children hanging around to pick up on the purpose and learn valuable lessons. Although Jim Henson's Pajanimals is not the best of this bunch, any boy or girl will gain something from watching these four adorable creatures getting ready for bed.

Luo Bao Bei would just about have to be my favourite out of this lot. It centres on the character of the same name and has us following her small yet meaningful adventures. Actually, that could just about be what sticks out the most in this severely underappreciated masterpiece. LBB is just so darn cute and likable. While she like any child strives to achieve her desires and fulfill her wishes, she also does what most other child characters don't do in their own shows. For someone only at the ripe age of seven, she acts beyond her years. She is extremely sensible in almost every scenario and takes the thoughts and feelings of those around her into consideration. With the help and guidance of her big, imaginary yet silent friend Pink Bear, LBB is always searching for the answer that sees everyone a winner. She regularly sympathises with her family and friends, sharing their difficult emotions and thinking of solutions to ensure both she and the rest find the light. This is the sort of character we should be marketing more and having teach children not just in China, but all over the world. I can't tell you how wide the gap is between her and the superficial Peppa Pig and whiny Caillou. There's is no hating this sweet little angel.

Luo Bao Bei a peaceful yet visually vibrant world that acknowledges a different lifestyle. It's a harmonious journey of imagination and reality through the childhood life of a young girl. It's an array of smooth personalities and adorably quirky creatures. And while not at the forefront, this show shares a small taste of Chinese culture from the festivities to the simple objects such as lanterns and dancing lions. All of this is coming from somebody that has only watched a handful of episodes. Perhaps I'm overrating this show. But even if I was, there is a pretty good reason for doing so. Luo Bao Bei presents a sweet-tasting atmosphere that one can (or at least should) never turn their back on. For those that either do or wish to put forward ideas for children's television, this is how you go about doing it. This fairly new (only released early this year) British/Canadian/Chinese work of art is genius. Why did it take so long for someone to think of something purely brilliant such as this?

Sometimes I often fear that the term 'hero' gets thrown around loosely. Especially when a lot of the preschool shows I've seen are centered on characters so immoral and repugnant. But the ever so popular Mike The Knight actually surprised me a little bit. It's a show that mixes the ever-intriguing medieval periods with magic and mythology. Not so much one that improves a child's academic ability, but it's definitely one that hints out the importance of hard thinking and virtuous behaviour. What a better way to go about it than making the main protagonist a knight. A symbol of bravery and solidity. The show's motto of 'Be a knight and do it right' further encapsulates how important it was for the creator (Alexander Bar) to make a good example out of Mike. Mike himself is ever so respectful to his fellow compatriots and always looks for answers that still satisfy all with goodness in their hearts. Whenever he makes mistakes, he tries hard to correct them. And he has the support of his horse Galahad, his sister Evie (a trainee witch) and two friendly dragons in Sparkie and Squirt. All of what he does is in honour of his father 'The King', who he hopes to be just like when he grows up. This might seem like an unpopular opinion, but I think Mike The Knight is not as bad as many make it out to be. It guides youngsters in the right direction, which is all you can ask for.

Shame to think this one didn't last very long. If you want to know what Pablo is all about, then the theme song says it all really. Pablo is a young toddler that thinks differently and sees the world in different ways. In other words, Pablo is a 'special' kid. To be more accurate he has autism, a mental condition that sees him communicate and learn through more complicated methods such as actions and drawings. Children will most likely not grasp the show's overall message, but perhaps that can be a good thing. It sort of indicates that despite such differences in development that separate kids from one another, everyone goes through the same process and some develop faster than others. Autism paints no negative image. Take it from someone who was diagnosed with mild Asperger's syndrome. I have my quirks and I am aware of them. But I like to think that such a thing doesn't make me any more different to the next person. Pablo not only does well with echoing this message, but also explains things with limited vocabulary and a parlance its very young audience can easily comprehend. 

There was a hidden detail that may or may not have been intended which I found to be quite interesting. It was basically how each of Pablo's six animal friends all represent a particular psychological characteristic of somebody with autism. Draff the giraffe represents the ability of these special kids to be really clever and occasionally fail to understand the role emotions can play. Tang the orangutan represents the liveliness and playfulness that sees these kids now and then struggle to take things more seriously and handle things with care. Llama repeats words she hears which is often how a message sinks in (it too might be a way for kids to memorise stuff). Mouse has sensitive hearing, working and thinking better in quiet environments. Wren shares a common trait often associated with kids like Pablo, flapping her wings as a way of showing comfort and enjoyment. Finally, Noasaurus represents the kindness and positive vibe while also being unintentionally clumsy. All taking place within a simple imaginary land that brings warmth and knowledge to its creator.

This one probably hangs onto the edge here. I'll start off about what I like. I very much respect this show for its reasonable approach to getting children's attention and ensuring they gain something from the experience. Through its title, Peg + Cat hints the mathematical theme and the use of the plus sign has the programme immediately throw itself towards people unlike other mundane shows that just use 'and' or '&' for their name (e.g. Charlie And Lola, Max & Ruby and Sarah & Duck). Although it does have its small, oversimplified details (e.g. such as Cat being simply and unimaginatively named 'Cat'), it can be argued that this show has the privilege to do so given how complex it can be. It obviously follows Peg and her clumsy feline friend as they embark on many adventures and make both counting and problem solving all the more enjoyable. It's fun, games, music and a variety of colourful characters. And whenever problem solving becomes to difficult for kids to understand here, Peg and Cat come around with a back-up message. They help remind people that there is always a way and that both stressing and/or giving up isn't ever the answer.

Despite the few benefits this show brings forward, there is one problem that I personally find to stick out and it does get on my nerves. Peg + Cat is too pleased with aural communication. It's well and truly fathomed that kids require loud and clear audio voices for better understanding. But Peg and Cat in my eyes are regular offenders for talking too loud, and just about use their outside voice no matter where they are (even indoors). Peg's voice in particular, is one I don't think would entirely end up on anybody's good side. Figuratively speaking, it's a step or two away from making your ears bleed. Perhaps it's just the non-pubescent child-like pitch of Peg, that I am irked by. Something that may seem natural. But having seen many other preschool content with voices not as demanding or as inflated, I've often come to the conclusion that Peg + Cat overdid itself here. The sounds of this show while meaning well, don't exactly encourage for a direct friendship.

Not something I have seen much of, but I know for a fact that it carries some very powerful ideas. Puffin Rock is one of very few shows I've come across which doesn't originate from either of Britain or Canada (made in Ireland). It primarily follows two Puffin siblings (Oona and her little brother Baba), as they explore their small and somewhat peaceful island home along with its fellow inhabitants. A gentle trip never hampered by the narration by Irish actor Chris O'Dowd. Most of the stories often involve the parents being busy. Young Baba's high level of curiosity and spirit sees him approaching potentially dangerous situations, leaving Oona to keep a close eye on him and make sure he is safe. This pretty much represents the show's main message. That being the importance of responsibility. To know that there will be times when even kids will have such expectations of looking after things themselves, whether they'd be siblings or something else. Puffin Rock heavily focuses on meaning and a show that does this is always bound to receive acclaim. It never looks down on its viewers, especially when it's always considering the potential they carry. Can't say much else, but one thing is for certain. This show deserves all the positive recognition it receives.

Another programme that tells stories using mythical creatures. This one however, isn't so much based on a rational and realistic time period. Nevertheless its intentions are clear as crystal. Wallykazam! is all for expanding every child's vocabulary through fun, easy-to-follow adventures with Wally the troll and his clever pet dragon Norville. Along with others such as the mischievous, trouble-making Bobgoblin, Gina the friendly Giant, Doug the gentle Orge, the lively Libby Light Sprite and the tetchy Stan of the Swamp, kids are taught new and/or unfamiliar words as well as the proper pronunciations. The show at times even takes further steps in teaching children about the ever-expanding English language through games and music. Whether it be rhyming words or synonyms (words with similar meanings), Wallykazam! attempts to dig deep and be very creative in its approach to ensuring young people grow up with improved communication skills. On top of this, the show acknowledges its audience by having Wally interact with them on a consistent basis. Overall, Wallykazam! is a visually welcoming experience with bright and quirky characters. All of which are guaranteed to entertain everybody and have them stepping out with something new learnt.

Travis "TJ" James