I went into yesterday waiting for the DuckTales reboot skeptical. Many times when something is relaunched, it's not nearly as good as expected. However, I must say that the new DuckTales is quite good, perhaps, dare I say, even better than the original. There are some things I like better off the bat. The animation is much higher quality now than it was in the 80s. It's fluid, it's clean and it has a comic book feel to it that gives a nice nod to Carl Barks and his original creation. Also, I like that Huey, Dewey and Louie are given actual individual personalities. In the original, they were pretty much interchangeable. This one, each has a unique appearance and demeanor. Webby is also much better in this one. The writing is strong. A great mix of humor, adventure and character development. Having Donald Duck as a main character is great and adds new dimensions to the show. The only thing early on that really bugged me was the new voice of Scrooge. I know that Alan Young has passed away, but it's going to take some time to get used to this new voice. In defense, I do like the characterization of Scrooge, so once I get used to the voice, it shouldn't be bad either. The other voice actors are great. You can tell they hired some big names to help with this show. This reboot is high quality and has a ton of potential. I look forward to seeing how it unfolds once it goes on the regular schedule. Bravo Disney!
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kingbk-213 August 2017
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annonymouscritic12 August 2017Even though I've only seen 10 episodes of the original series, I really enjoyed watching them. So when watching this reboot I did have high expectations unlike everyone else, and I was also afraid that it might suck badly because most reboots in recent years have been borderline trash. This reboot is not trash, not even close. It stays faithful to the original series, has great writing, and the jokes constantly hit. I've seen a few people complain about the art style and honestly, it's actually really good and fits well with the new comic book style the series is taking. The voice acting is better than the original (although Alan Young as Scrooge in the original is still brilliant) and I love David Tennant as Scrooge. He fits the character so well and does such a great job. Even though we only have two episodes so far, they are two episodes that I adored and I'm pretty sure fans of the original series will love this just as much, if not more than the original. The animation is gorgeous as well. It isn't choppy and is actually really fluid and the original Pac-Man shaped black eyes for the pupils are a very nice touch. Overall, this is a great reboot and you should watch it right now. Great job all around, can't wait for new episodes!
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When my kids were little, there were some really good cartoons that I enjoyed watching with them, such as "Pinky and the Brain", "Animaniacs" and "Freakazoid". Watching these cartoons with them wasn't a chore like it was when they watched the likes of "Muppet Babies" (uggh!!) and many of the more insipid cartoons. Why do I mention this? Because I see the reboot of "DuckTales" to be similar...a cartoon that adults AND kids can both enjoy. This is because the show is exquisitely well written--with many clever references to various Disney shows and some very intelligently written plots. I particularly love seeing the Glomgold episodes...especially the one where he took over the show (complete with his own theme song). Overall, a clever and fun show...and one you should try to get your kids interested in seeing, as otherwise you might have to watch it alone.
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The small details, Scrooge McDuck is so cheap he still uses a flip-phone. The cameo of Roxanne, Max's Girlfriend from "A Goofy Movie" the heart of the story is the same.
They've updated the boys to give them a more modern "feel" which is how you connect with the kids. Huey, Dewey, and Luey are the characters kids see the show through, so you give them modern cartoon humor. Scrooge McDuck and Donald are the same (which is who the adults are watching through). The adventure in the first episode is witty, there is actual depth. Instead of pure adventure, you see Dewey early on overhearing Scrooge say family is nothing but trouble, then in part two we see Dewey try and get past the booby traps alone. He's learning to trust his uncle, and his uncle learns to teach the boys, rather than just let them tag along.
The humor for adults and kids are on point. Adults who grew up with "Ducktales" (1987- 1990) and kids today will love it and watch it together. -
I grew up on the old Disney universe cartoons, before they started getting weird with mid-nineties and beyond. Your classics, like DuckTales, Chip 'n Dale, TaleSpin, and Darkwing Duck.
Like a lot of people, I eyed off the idea of a reboot with suspicion, but my fears were put to rest with the very first teasers to come out, and with the actual release, I fell in love with the first scenes.
The new DuckTales looks and sounds different than the old one, and that's okay. Die-hard old fans who can't abide by the smallest adjustments are just dinosaurs waiting for the comet to hit.
The art style is great. It's more reminiscent of the comic art style that the series is based on, and more smooth than the old series. It's not CGI, which makes it stand way out.
The voice acting is perfect. It's not the same voice actors as the old series, but again, it doesn't matter.
The characters have been given more personality than before, which is great. Huey, Dewie, and Louie are finally three different kids with personalities. Scrooge is more than just a trillionaire. And it seems we're going to see Donald as the adventurer and find out more about the kid's parentage.
I'm absolutely beyond excited for this show and look forward to following it. I hope the success makes for some more additions. -
TedStixonAKAMaximumMadness26 November 2017The fundamental problems with living in an age of seemingly endless reboots, remakes and re-treads is the simple fact that people get burned out. And when people get burned out, they begin to dissect, dismiss and demean those rare but invaluable examples of reboots done right, just out of a misplaced sense of moral superiority. Case in point- 2017's "DuckTales", a retelling of the classic cartoon series that started thirty years back in 1987. Having grown up alongside the original series, I get it. Our nostalgia is a beloved part of our lives, and nothing could ever possibly measure up to sky-high expectations... Especially not in this case... right? ...right?
Well, I'm here to tell you. In every single imaginable way, Disney has pulled it off, with a loving and clever reboot that captures the essence and magic of that original run, while making necessary and valid updates when needed. "DuckTales" is an absolute joy, boasting strong and stylish animation, a wonderful voice-over cast that nails the tone, and some extremely clever writing that took me by a surprise more than once, even as a man quickly approaching his 30's. And it's frankly shocking seeing the plethora of highly critical reviews here... and even moreso shocking to see many of the reviews containing blatant and overblown exaggerations of minor issues or even outright lies about the content of the series, just so they can smugly slap it with an unfair one or two outta ten score and bemoan how their childhood has been "ruined."
Just take it from this fan... go in with an open mind, and you'll be thoroughly charmed and thrilled with the results!
Grouchy trillionaire Scrooge McDuck (voice of David Tennant) is surprised when his estranged relative Donald (Tony Anselmo) drops off the triplets Huey, Dewey, and Louie (Danny Pudi, Ben Schwartz, Bobby Moynihan) one day, demanding he watch over them while he leaves to be interviewed for a new job. While Scrooge initially ignores the boys, a series of strange events brings them together as he re-discovers his old sense of adventure and excitement. And so, they team up, along with pilot Launchpad (Beck Bennett) and the headstrong Webby (Kate Micucci), and embark on a series of strange and peculiar new adventures in search of fame and treasure. Along they way, they fight fearsome creatures, encounter old enemies and begin a search for the elusive Della... the long-lost mother of Huey, Dewey and Louise.
To start with one of the more publicized aspects of the series, I absolutely love the entire cast. Obviously Tony Anselmo is a complete joy as Donald... after all, he's been voicing the character for over thirty years now, including in the original run of the series. Pudi, Schwartz and Moynihan are all excellent as the lead trio, and though they might not sound as childlike, all nail the characters quite well and have that delightful, young sense of glee to their performances- you can tell all three are trying their hardest, and are infectiously engaging. I also really adore Miccuci, and I very much appreciate how Webby has been updated to be a more proactive and academically intelligent character. But the revelation here is David Tennant as Scrooge McDuck. He knocks it out of the park. Absolutely perfect turn as the beloved character.
The animation style has been a source of much love and much controversy, but I really dig it. It's stylized to be a bit more stark, contrasted and simplistic... almost like an animated comic book, which is appropriate as comics were the inspiration for the '87 series. Yes, there is a degree of stylistic whiplash going from the old to the new, but stick with it. It grows on you quickly, and it serves the material very well. And the writing is fantastic. It has the same tonality as the original, but brings it a bit more up to speed for modern times. Though don't worry. It's not bogged down by needless references or contrived self-aware meta-humor. It's very much just geared towards things children in this day and age will understand. There's a bit more gadgetry at play, passing nods to modern popular culture, a few jokes about current trends and that sort-of thing. But its never to the detriment of the series, and it's always in the service of the story or world-building.
Over the past few days, I've watched the first six episodes, and I have to say... I'll probably keep watching. I adored the original run of the series growing up and was constantly viewing reruns and video-taped episodes on a daily basis. And now, a beloved part of my childhood has returned, as good as it ever was. Though there will sadly always be doubters and those who can't let go of the past and embrace the future, I would highly recommend the new "DuckTales" to open-minded fans old and new alike! It really is as good as the original in every single way. And it easily earns a perfect 10 out of 10 from me! Woo-oo! -
I've seen some reviews ranting about how this show isn't faithful to the original and too much has changed in the reboot. I however strongly disagree. The reboot is very faithful to the original, without repeating the exact same formula as the original had. All of the characters, including the triplets and Webby, now have their own personality.
Webby is no longer the stereotypical "girly" fourth triplet. She's spontaneous, creative and a quick thinker as well as a quick talker (even more so in stressful situations).
Huey seems to be the only one who's still in the Junior Woodchucks. He's the oldest, more organized triplet. He's not as spontaneous as his siblings are. But make no mistake: he's still mischievous. He seems to be cool with getting dragged into dangerous situations together with his two younger brothers, never showing any signs of being really scared. He's level headed. But can get overly excited about small things such as activities on field trips.
Dewey is the middle child. He's extremely spontaneous even more so than Webby and his two brothers. He's not afraid of putting his own life in danger. He seems to enjoy taking risks that put him in deadly situations.
Louie is the youngest triplet. He's by far the most laid back triplet. He likes to slack off. A lot. He is, however, ready to act whenever the need arises. He has talked to Webby more his brothers thus far.
Scrooge McDuck is believed to be the uncle of Donald Duck but the triplets have always called him uncle Scrooge. He's the richest duck in the world. He has a bit of an Indiana Jones vibe about him. He is famous in the world as an adventurer and loves to get himself into trouble (unlike the Scrooge in the old series). Despite his old age he's surprisingly agile and can take quite the beating and still fight back without any problem.
Donald Duck is the Uncle and the caretaker of the triplets. Unlike the original show, Donald will have an important role in the reboot. He was Scrooge's sidekick once but they parted ways after an incident of some kind.
I like the new voice actors surprisingly much. Some say the triplets sound a bit too old but I think it works. The writing is simply brilliant! Witty, mysterious and adventurous!
Seriously give the show a chance even if you never watched the original series. It's a reboot done right. -
ericstevenson19 August 2017Looking at the kid's cartoon of the 1980's, I believe that this website lists "DuckTales" as having the highest score of any cartoon of the entire decade and looking back, I certainly agree. I remember owning VHS tapes of the original show when I was really little. I recall seeing the new intro for the show which fortunately kept the same theme song which is among the catchiest of all time. The animation style is all brand new but it's still authentic to the original series. Having seen just the first two episodes, I'm blown away at how amazing they are. Thank you, Disney XD for another great show!
If "Star Vs. The Forces Of Evil" was the next "Gravity Falls", is this the next "Star Vs."? This may in fact be even better than the original. In the original, the character Webigail wasn't really that interesting. She wasn't bad, she was more like a stereotypical little girl. This version, on the other hand is way smarter and is an action girl all the way! Thank you for improving this character! We even get more screen time with Donald Duck which was oddly lacking from the original show a lot. We even get some new villains or henchman of Flintheart Glomgold.
My only complaint is that Huey, Dewey, and Louie's voices are a bit too mature. We even get shout outs to locations in other Disney cartoons from around the same time period. A new universe they're creating, perhaps? I just love all the constant movements and action. They're not doing that much to make the show relevant again by changing any personalities and it's working perfectly! Everyone is in character or better than they were before and I see the beginning of an awesome show! **** -
derikdragon0112 August 2017Expectations aside, the first episode was pretty good. It was cool, that the writers gave nods to Talespin, Goof Troop and especially Darkwing Duck. However if DW is part of this later on (either closer to the original, or slightly modified), it might be interesting to see where it takes him.
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CallEmLikeISeeEm26 August 2019I've always been a massive Scrooge McDuck/Carl Barks/Don Rosa superfan. Additionally, I was a kid when the original Ducktales series graced our Saturday morning television sets. I won't lie; I was very skeptical that Disney would live up to the original Ducktales cartoons and the Barks/Rosa classic comics.
Before I continue, I have to say that the series bears very little resemblance to the Barksian universe on which both shows are based, so don't expect an adaptation of 'Tralla La' or 'The Mines of King Solomon' here.
The show's main strength over its' 80's predecessor lies in its' character development. Huey, Dewey and Louie are now three completely different personalities that complement one another. Huey is mature and reserved, Dewey (the focus of the show) is the most daring and reckless, and Louie is lazy and self-serving. More importantly, the two female protagonists of the original (Bentina Beakley and her granddaughter Webbigail Vanderquack) are far more interesting than their 80's versions. Webby is smart and resourceful, and Mrs Beakley has a very interesting back story. I love this series' inclusion of Donald Duck, unlike the original which kicked him out of the show in the first few minutes. The character that (lovably) remains the same as in the original is Launchpad, and his clumsy charm never fails.
I have seen only the first season thus far; the season did have an interesting story arc which concluded in an amazing season finale. The writers did an interesting job of picking and reworking the original series/characters and the Barks/Rosa universe into an interesting combo that's relevant to today's young (savvier) children.
The series also caters heavily to my own generation who grew up on 80's Disney Saturdays. There are numerous Darkwing Duck references throughout, as well as nods to the Gummi Bears and a hilarious performance from Don Karnage (of TaleSpin).
Overall, I really enjoyed how the reboot is fun. I'm guessing that it has it's own new legions of young fans and has not shut out the original Ducktales kids. If you are a Barks hardliner and are looking for true adaptations, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you are willing to keep an open mind, I'm sure you will love the reworked Ducktales as I have. -
trebordjackson24 October 20181. It's pretty funny sometimes 2. It's not very rewatchable when a show has arcs you get bored with episodes you already watched You feel been there done that I like episodic cartoons better 3. I hate that characters often get pushed to the side and get neglected by the writers. I guess this is an unfortunate side effect of Giving the kids new personalities they often upstage the adults 4. The art is ok I understand that they had to separate it from the original but it takes some getting used to 5. When they tried to give the tripplets more depth they made them less fun. Huey is just boring a sterotypical nerd is a good character but they don't do anything with him he is just kinda there, and there is Dewy Scrappy Doo in a Duck's body, Louie the only tripplet that gets funny lines probably because he is rude mean and selfish. There is Launch pad he's ok just not that funny, and there is Webby She is tough, smart brave and funny but she also has no social skills, There is Mrs.Beakly she is old and grumpy and tough, there is Uncle Scrooge the best character 6) I absolutely hate what they did to Donald he went from being a Short tempered, mischievous, loud mouth, with a good heart deep down to this pathetic sad sack, that is scared of everything. He went from Bart Simpson to Milhouse. They also make him do toned down slapstick gags because they perfer to have the characters stand around and talk like King of the Hill but they have to because he is Donald.
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samanthakm-3955724 September 2020Ducktales reminds me what I want my life to be like, adventure and family! It's fun, and my whole family adores it. We always tune in for new episodes.
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jendrikwuest20 January 2020I was a fan of the old show and when the news came that there would be a reboot, I was very happy. I especially liked that the creators were ordered to read the comics. Unfortunately, the creators didn't take everything to heart and had some pretty stupid ideas. The design change was completely unnecessary and looks cheap and ugly. While some character changes were successful (the nephews, Webby) and Donald was finally included, others cannot convince. The villain Flintheart Glomgold, the most unscrupulous and cunning opponent of Scrooge in the comics, is made a clown here. The same applies to Magica De Spell. Goldie O'Gilt has also been changed too much in my opinion. The series thus has light and shadow. While some episodes are very good, there are total failures. The creators also seem to want to slowly introduce too many characters. I see e.g. no need for Gizmo Duck, also because the character (at least in Europe) was never particularly popular. All in all, the reboot cannot completely match the original, even if I like the idea of continuity in the Duckburg universe - but the showmakers are not the first, the first cartoon artist to bring continuity to the universe was Don Rosa.
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ak101030 July 2020Ducktales was one of my favorite cartoons from childhood. I even watched them on youtube as an adult and still liked this. I was excited to hear the news about a reboot, especially with David Tennant playing Scrooge McDuck. David Tennant is indeed good in his role, but I can't say that about other voice actors. They made me hate the nephews. They are voiced by adults, and while many voice actors can play child characters rather well, these three are terrible at it. They have zero empathy to their characters, and the viewers can spot that. They are not playing the characters by putting themselves in the place of the character, instead they are simply 'play-acting' like an amateur in a house-party. For example, every time a nephew says something deemed silly by adults, we can sense that self-awareness in the tone of the voice actor. In reality a child would believe what he/she says and be genuine about those silly things. A good actor would be able to imitate that innocence. All children's voice actors in the new Ducktales fails horribly at this. To be fair, the writing is also to share some blame. The writers, by making the nephews have individual characteristics (a change I approve in theory, but not in this particular execution), botched by being too judgmental and superfluous. Huey is a nerd - and nerds are weird and overbearing right, let's show it. Webby is awkward - let's make fun of her social awkwardness. Giving them special traits are good but they are just so in your face!
The animation is in the style of comic books, and I like it. I found voice of the person singing theme song kinda annoying (just a personal taste). The stories are sometimes good, sometimes meh. What I hate about it is the so-called character development they tried to bring in to the story. I do like character development in stories but these people do it wrong. Each character is too self-absorbed and the plot entertains them in this narcissism by trying to make their adventure all dramatic, emotional, and heroic, but ends up looking like an adult sitcom. Many people may enjoy it. Maybe kids will enjoy it, I don't know the taste of today's kids and I can't even say whether or not I would have liked this show as a kid. But Ducktales for me is not a sitcom. It's a children's show. And children's shows can be both nonsensically funny, have pop-culture references, and deal with serious social and psychological issues - just watch the All Hail King Julien show. But this new Ducktales people seemed to have copied some main points from several successful shows (for children and adults) and mixed them together trying to keep to predetermined recipe, possibly due to their inability to come up with solid plots, witty dialogues, or empathetic character development. -
Fireberries13 August 2017What I saw: Debut episode
Personal history of series: Didn't grow up with the original series, but did grow up with the movie. The original series has been on my "to watch" list for a very long time. The theme song has been a permanent resident on my ipod for a decade.
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Having never seen the original Ducktales series, I went into the first two episodes with an almost blank slate. I do really enjoy the 1990 movie, and something like that was what I was hoping for with this new series.
So far it is very, very promising. They've given Webby a personality outside of "a girl", they have defined the triplets a little more as opposed to them essentially being one character, and I think they've done very well with the voice actors as none of them felt out of place or stale.
A good bunch of the jokes landed, especially anything with Launchpad, I got some giggles out of it, so I'm satisfied on that front. Their first adventure was good, I'm just interested in how they're going to continue worldbuilding this as clearly magic continues to be canon.
The most interesting aspect that stuck out to me the most, however, was the family drama and relationships between the Duck family, in particular the mystery behind what happened to the triplets' mother, and what she was like.
The animation? Of course I'm a little put out that it is flash animation and not looking anywhere as nice as Gravity Falls or Star vs the Forces of Evil, but it's a high quality flash animation and I don't think it impairs the overall quality of the show too much.
The people behind this new series clearly like the franchise and want to do a good job. I've given it a 7/10 so far, but it is looking very likely that the score will shuffle up higher and higher. It is very well done and I look forward to more! -
cboisson30 August 2020Let me start by saying that I didn't watch the original ducktale serie, just the movie, so I didn't grew up with but what I did grew up with are the Don Rosa comic books and I adore them.
The voice cast is top notch ( although as a non native english speaker I need subtitles for Donald scenes) I love Tennant as Scrooge, and seeing Donald, my favourite character with a main role is a delight.
I particularly enjoy the serious tone of the show, for example the episode during the season 2 where the roots of Donald almost constant anger is explored (which contributes to the fact that I like him), or when Della is finally reunited with her children almost made me cry.
At the moment I'm eagerly waiting for the show to resume season 3 and watch more adventures of the Duck family. -
jegd-847-63140720 August 2017'Ducktales (2017)' the series remake of the late 1980's series of the same name is wonderful.
What makes this show great for me is the majority of the artwork was in honor of Scrooge McDuck's creator Carl Barks; Donald Duck's black sailor suit, Scrooge's red coat and the CGI textures & shades resembling old screentone sheets from the 30's 40's.
I loved the Easter-egg references to the old series, the original comic books & other Disney properties; The city names Cape Suzette, Spoonerville & St. Canard from 'Tail-Spin', 'Goof Troop' & (my personal favorite) 'Darkwing Duck'.
The portraits hanging in McDuck Manor feature some of Carl Barks' drawings of Scrooge McDuck.
Scrooge's garage (aka "The Wing of Secrets") is filled with relics from the old series; like the big gold sun coin, Armstrong the robot, and the lamp from the 'Duck Tales: Treasure of the Lost Lamp' movie.
I liked the change in Webby (Webbigail Vanderquack) from the original series. She's as adventurous as the triplets and a more "take charge personality than her counterpart on the 1987 series. When you pause on Webby's "big board" searching for hidden references, you might also notice a doll impaled on her bedroom wall that looks like the old Webby character voiced by Russi Taylor, who also did the voices of all three boys back in the day.
Speaking of the original cast; Tony Anselmo reprises his role as Donald Duck for the show. I know the surviving voice actors from the original series had campaigned to do the voice work again, and with all of these hidden surprises, I'm hoping to hear their familiar voices in the future.
I do miss Alan Young. He was Scrooge McDuck to me. I love the addition of David Tennant (an actual Scotsman playing a Scottish Duck), but his voice-over will take some getting used to. It might be interesting to note that while David Tennant played the 10th Doctor on 'Doctor Who', Alan Young was also connecting to time travel in the 1960's classic 'The Time Machine'. Also (to put a smile on your face) while Alan Young was the star of the 1961-1966 series 'Mister Ed', David Tennant is incredibly allergic to horses. -
d_curlee8517 August 2017When I saw teaser images last year, I was honestly skeptical. I feared this new take on "DuckTales" was going to be like the modern "Mickey Mouse" cartoons -- crass, mean-spirited, hostile, frightening, and repulsive. Given Disney's cashing in on nostalgia, much like Cartoon Network ("The Powerpuff Girls" and "Teen Titans"), I feared for the worst. But then, a few months later, I heard a friend tell me about how good this reboot looked.
Then, just now, I watched the first two episodes of the new "DuckTales" on YouTube. And boy, was I blown away! What a vast improvement! Huey, Dewey, and Louie (Danny Pudi, Ben Schwartz and Bobby Moynihan, respectively) have their own personalities and identifiable traits besides being triplets. Webbigail (Kate Micucci) is no longer just a "girly-girl" but an adventurous tomboy who wants nothing more than to see the world with her own eyes.
As for adults like Mrs. Beakley (Toks Olagundoye), Launchpad (Beck Bennett), and Donald Duck (Tony Anselmo), their characters are carefully preserved and improved upon; especially Mrs. Beakley, who is more suitable as a bodyguard than as a housekeeper (though she certainly doesn't do a bad job at the latter, either). Flintheart Glomgold (Paul F. Tompkins) is a bit more odd-looking (mostly for his stoutness), but his wicked, greedy personality, too, is depicted accurately.
The character designs threw me off just a bit. In fact, I initially thought some of the designs looked more lifeless. But, after watching the first two episodes, it reminded me of my experience with "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker." When Zelda and Nintendo fans saw teasers of that game, we all thought it was going to look stupid and childish. But, when we played the actual game, boy were we wrong! The cel-shaded effects were just what "The Wind Waker" needed to paint its colorful, life-filled atmosphere.
Same is the case here -- the character designs might seem alien at first, especially if you grew up with the original "DuckTales." But, once you're used to them, you'll grow to like the characters, the excellent and imaginative imagery, and the intricate details used to create Francisco Agnones and Matt Youngberg's fantastic re-imagined world in Duckburg and beyond.
The writing is also quite good, and it's the kind that doesn't talk down to the target audience or teach kids that adults are idiots. One moment I liked is in which Scrooge McDuck (voiced by the current Doctor Who, David Tennant), after crossing a bridge with traps set off by Dewey, tells him that neither he nor his brothers know what they are doing and that their smart-alec behavior has only put them in danger, not to mention respect their elders. The nephews don't seem very respectful, but hey. It's the debut episode and they never met Scrooge McDuck before.
Because of my lack of faith in modern television, I never got the chance to watch "Wonder over Yonder," "Gravity Falls," "The Legend of Korra," "Steven Universe," the final season of "Samurai Jack," or "Star vs." Nowadays, I pretty much watch what's on Netflix or YouTube, more than anything else. But, after watching this new take on "DuckTales," I feel more regret than before.
With all that said, I have this to say to the staff at Disney Television Animation: you have everything to be proud of, and as long as you keep up what you've done to make the debut episodes of "DuckTales," you're actually making something that is not a cash-in on nostalgia. In short, keep up the good work. -
I'll say it straight away; I have never seen a single episode of the original 80s cartoon. I started watching this one because the original Ducktales was supposed to be a really good show, and everyone was saying that the new one was also supposed to be really good. I just finished watching season 1, and I cannot wait for the second season. In my opinion every character is likable in their own way, whether they're interesting or just plain funny, and I like the idea of combining an overarching plot with mini stories for each episode. I like the concept of a character (the mother) not only being missing, but seemingly being erased from existence, with any trace of her hidden away and never spoken of. I also think Lena is a pretty interesting character, with that mysterious shadow creature that she seems reluctantly loyal to. But as awesome as it is, I just hope it isn't dragged on for too long like a lot of modern cartoons (such as Spongebob and the Fairly Odd Parents) seem to, and that it actually has a conclusion eventually. SERIOUSLY recommendable, whether you've seen the original or not.
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pachomar8428 September 2017As a fan of the original series (yes, I'm 33) I gotta say this is an awesome reboot. The characters are well revamped for 30 years later. There's the original opening (one of my favorites ever) All characters are there (some of them appearing episode by episode) and the inclusion of Donald makes it more fun I'm not ashamed to say this i one of the best animated reboot done, and I gladly watch which which some laughter from nostalgia Definitely recommended for old fans and new fans!
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AnthonyChickenson22 October 2017Maybe I'm too old, but this new series is quite literally a parody of the original Ducktales. It has next to nothing to do with the original premises and all characters have been purposely changed to not even resemble the source material. That's the point, you say. Yes, I got that from watching the 8 released episodes.
The show is filled with pointless topical pop culture references and most of the voice actors perform all their lines yelling, making the overall plot incohesive and all the characters flat and alike, regardless of the star-studded voice cast. There's very little in ways of morals which the original show contained, so I'd call the storytelling irresponsible (as it's just face-value drivel) and generic at best.
All that said, OK, I wasn't expecting a continuation of the original show. I realize we live in modern times when people no longer tell stories that have a sense of adventure and traditional storytelling because everything must make something modern and completely irrelevant to the material a butt of jokes, most recently mocking Mark Zuckerberg in a very mean-spirited way (not a huge fan of Mark either but c'mon...).
The character design isn't horrible, I like what they've done with some of the characters- Webby is an oddball but a pretty convincing female and Mrs Beakley is some sort of secret-agent-like character. I guess I appreciate the appearance of terra-firmians, which was one of my less favorite of the classic episodes. I have no idea why they made Gyro Gearloose completely full of himself. The smartest, most talented people I know are not only humble, but self deprecating, just like the original Gyro. Huey, Dewey and Louie now have...well, not exactly distinguishable personalities, except they're all jerks surrounded by actually sort-of interesting disposable side characters. Scrooge partners with Glumgold? Is nothing sacred?
When they released the initial art of the titular characters in a Jeep driving through a Serengeti, I didn't expect entire episodes dedicated to social networks. The art spoke the same language the original series did, so these past 8 episodes are an unwelcome surprise to say the least. My point is that with all the decisions they made to change everything from what it used to be to what they changed it to, the show does absolutely nothing to stand out among the rest of the same shows full of yelling and topical references, denoting that the writers actually don't have anything of value to say other than ventilating their opinions on various modern issues. It's actually quite boring. I don't know about you, but I watched Ducktales as a kid because it was nothing like my life. This Ducktales is like everything you see walking down a street or channel surfing. By comparison, ANY of the first two original Ducktales' season's (before it turned to mush) is a better choice to watch. Or better yet, read some Don Rosa or Carl Barks instead.
I'm quite convinced this show won't stand the test of time...who will want to watch this twenty years from now? I'm not sure I want to watch more than the 8 episodes, but I loved Ducktales, and at least SOME of the episodes aren't complete garbage and manage to present their voice in a new and surprising way, thus barely making it worth watching (while doing everything to betray the source material).
Bottom line is, if you throw away everything that made Ducktales what it was, what are you left with? Not Ducktales, that's what. -
kerorogio13 August 2021Nowadays, that every 80/90 cult icon is easily pulled out of mothballs to make a profit, it's no surprise there's a reboot of the "Ducktales" series. But what was the result in the end? Well! For sure ... it cannot be said that it is a faithful product to the past, because many characters and their way of life have been brutally changed. If once we had a distracted and good-natured Gyro Gearloose, now we have in his place a gruff scientist. The chubby Doofus, from a sweet and insecure Junior Woodchucks he was transformed into a selfish and psychotic billionaire. Fenton found himself becoming Hispanic, and his mother (unsurprisingly) from an indolent couch potato has become a capable police officer. Goldie is now a a "Fujiko Mine" octogenarian. The faithful butler Duckworth is no longer among the living and was represented with a more snobbish personality. Flintheart in addition to being stocky (to differentiate him more from his rival), has suffered a lowering of intellect, becoming more than an opponent , a comic shoulder in Patrick Star style. Donald is no longer a member of the navy (but they continue to make him appear shortly). Mrs. Beakley from a sweet defenseless lady has become an ugly agent Schwarzenegger. The triplets have been positively differentiated, giving them: Red = the role of intelligent and competitive Lisa Simpson style, Blue = the daring sportsman, and Green = the role of the lazy and swindler. A more adolescent version, but which helps the fun factor a lot. Even the poor Webby, once an emblem of purity and sweetness, has found herself transformed into a sort of hyperactive small soldier stuffed with enthusiasm, with a constant presence in the show. The only one who, despite the different context, doesn't seem to have changed much, is the evil witch Magica. Furthermore, his stories, along with those concerning Della, are ... exaggerated as they may be, among the most willing.
The old series was adventurous and feel-good, while this modern one is more action and zany, with an alternation between cisnism and emotionality . The importance of family ties and friendship are messages also present in the old series, but here they are both reiterated much more often. Seriously, I didn't think I would ever see the gang of ducks have so many mood swings, shed so many tears forcibly, and I didn't even think I'd see them beat so many punches and spinning kicks to make you feel nostalgic for "Walker, Texas Ranger". Well ... as for Donald, and only him, I can't deny that the scenes where he comes into action out of anger and parental affection, I liked them. It suits his temper and in any case that doesn't make him automatically a winner, which is also why he is perhaps the most loved of the classic characters.
Probably they hoped to give them a deeper characterization, certainly the intent was to also catch teenagers, who love strong and underlined sentimentality.
The introduction of the new characters was positive, from a certain rebellious shadow-girl (with a immoderate evolution), to the half-brother of a well-known greedy bad guy, to finish with the tough sister of a classic character. Oh, it was appreciable to have had clearer origins for a certain superhero, even if ... these clash with the original. A little less enthusiastic than some modern gags.
As for the edgy art style, personally I still find it not exactly gorgeous, but I understand that with habit it has been appreciated. I recognize that embodies the soul of this new production well. In general, I have not despised this reboot, it is done with skill, but I didn't like the brutality of certain changes, nor the crafty heavy citations to other series, Disney and not Disney.
New generation, new storytelling. It was necessary? I don't think so, but the important thing is that it was appreciated... I presume. -
bdenotter10 September 2020The original Ducktales was a bit before my time. I knew the characters but people like Launchpad were quite new to me. I expected a simple Disney show about scrooge and the nephews. But no, I got so much more.
This show is beautiful. It has good humor and a solid script to fill any 20 minutes you have spare. But this is not just a show for childeren. It is a love letter to Ducktales and everyone who grew up with stories of Scrooge and Donald Duck. It goes into more depth about character backgrounds: how Donald and the nephews ended up in Duckburg, but also who the mother of the nephews is which is a suprisingly heartfelt storyline and really grabbed me by the throat.
Everyone has that list in his/her head of which series are the best series for them personally. And while animated shows are usually overshadowed by big blockbuster shows, I have to say that this show is so good that it makes my personal favourite series list of all times. It's witty, the visuals are great and like I said a loveletter to anyone who grew up with Ducktales or in my case reading the Donald Duck cartoons. -
obslord23 May 2018As a fan of the original DuckTales show I have to start with the statement, that I didn't expect too much from this reboot, but the show definitely exceeded my expectations. One thing that really annoyed me in the beginning were the long time gaps between the released episodes, but I hope that is a thing of the past and didn't influence ratings too much. As far as the animation is concerned maybe the quality of it is high?, but the style is something you really need to get used too, because for me it feels a bit oversimplified. The same thing you could say for some of the visual character designs. For example Huey, Dewey and Louie, who practically looked the same in the original show, and completely differnet in the 90's Quack Pack Show are now somewhere in middle, which is good, but it doesn't realy stick because the simplified animation style still makes it hard to distinguish them from each otther. On the other hand the personalities of them, and of most other characters are very fitting, and compared to the original show there is even a good character development for some of the ducks. About the plot I have say that there are strong and weak episodes but most of episodes are very entertaining. The mix of family, adventure and humor works good most of the time. Some of the pop culture jokes are of course better than others, therefore I think it was definitely a good decision to include Donald in the show because he adds the slapstick factor into the mix. When talking about the voices of the Ducks I think it was also a good decision to only give Donald his duckish voice, (and not the kids too) because it sets him appart. David Tennant does a great job as Scrooge and Keith Ferguson as Flintheart Glomgold is hilarious. Overall I would say it's a good show, that doesn't only work for kids because it has some character and plot development and a nice humor, but I'm not really sure if it's fits in the modern animation landscape, because the style and the themes feel very "retro".
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I had been looking forward to this show since it was announced in early 2015, so when it was finally released I was hugely disappointed. The animation and art are of the crude, angular "edgy" kind that dominates today's TV animation. Up to this point, these classic Disney characters and their storylines were always noted for their superb animation, character design and background artwork, that were a pivotal part of the awe and excitement that came with each adventure and truly engaged the viewer in a genuine and charming way. This cartoon abandons this legacy altogether, and even goes so far as to claim that the reason why the characters are so off-model is because it was based on the art styles of Disney Legends Carl Barks and Milt Kahl, as if to shift the blame for their poor performance to these two icons, whose work bears absolutely no resemblance to the crude drawings of the Ducktales reboot series. This comparison is highly insulting to the works of these two artists, who are both noted for their sublime artwork (in comics and animation, respectively) and extensive work on the Disney ducks.
Voice acting is based on "celebrity" status and not on whether or not someone fits the character. A lot of voices are television actors and not professional voice actors, leaving the voice work awkwardly paced and poorly acted.
The show abandons virtually all characterization from the characters' original incarnations, to the point where they are similar in name only to their original counterparts. The showrunners basically created an unrelated TV cartoon, using the DuckTales show and character names just as a marketing trick to get more viewers. The humor is endlessly self-referential and sarcastic, and every sense of adventure or excitement is deflated by some snarky sarcastic comment by one of the nephews, who, along with the show's sitcom-esque structure are more reminiscent of Quack Pack than anything else. In the end, any reboot of this beloved franchise would have naturally done well in ratings, but this could and should have been done so much better. The show had such huge potential, but all it does is focus of change for the sake of change. Don Rosa, comics creator who worked on a number of popular Disney comics featuring these characters, has also expressed his dislike of this show, saying it "bears virtually no resemblance whatsoever" to Barks original comics. I couldn't agree more...