Recently having re-watched Ducktales, I can safely say it's still as good as I remember. Definitely an iconic, defining show of my generation.
The stories are heavily based on the comic world created by Carl Barks, starring his most famous creation Scrooge McDuck, as well as Magica de Spell, the Beagle Boys,Gyro Gearloose, and Flintheart Glomgold among others. Unlike the comics, Donald duck is omitted from the plot (having enlisted in the navy), which doesn't impact the show's quality. Non-Barksian supporting characters in Donald's place include Launchpad Mc Quack, Webby, Mrs Beakley and Duckworth (all four are quite likable).
In typical Barks fashion, the episodes follow Scrooge's love of treasure hunting and wealth accumulation, as well as protecting his fortune (safe in his money bin). Some stories are taken directly from Barks classics, such 'The Lost Crown of Genghis Khan', 'Back to the Klondike', and 'The Land of Tralla La'. They tend to be loose adaptations and some work very well, but 'Tralla La' was a disappointment (I consider the comic to be Barks' masterpiece) and thus one of the weakest episodes in the series.The animation is also lush and top notch, a characteristic of Disney TV shows of that era.
I prefer the older episodes, mainly because the show later shifted focus from Scrooge and the boys to Gizmoduck (in my opinion, the show's Scrappy-Doo). Add to the mix the highly annoying Bubba- Tootsie combo and the show quickly went downhill. I do love Gizmoduck's cranky soap-addicted mother though, what a character!!
As an adult, it was fun to pick up on the subtle references here and there, and it's amazing how the show's themes appeal to both adults and children. Examples include the hilarious 'Till Nephews Do Us Part', where Scrooge falls in love, and 'The Status Seeker' which addresses the concept of status and high society.
If you've heard of this show and want to buy/watch it, regardless of age, I'd highly recommend and not just because I'm an 80's child.
And in the highly UNLIKELY chance you have not heard the theme song, it will stick for YEARS.
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