'Harriet the Spy' - Y2K Aesthetic Aids This Adaptation

 

Welcome to my very first review on this blog. Series - Harriet the Spy.

Apple TV+ isn't a very popular streaming service, and so cartoons on there sadly go under the radar. By sheer luck, my dad got a free year of Apple TV+ when he purchased a MacBook Air in late 2020. So I have been able to tune into some of Apple's finest offerings, including: The Snoopy Show, Stillwater, Wolfboy and the Everything Factory, and now Harriet the Spy.

I know that this series is based on a book, but I never read it.  I do know it was a bit controversial for subverting gender norms, but it managed to gain a lesbian fanbase because of that. In fact, Louise Fitzhugh, the author of the book, was lesbian herself.

I'm mainly familiar with the Nickelodeon movie from 1996. I saw it when I was little and thought it was  great, if a bit mean-spirited. There's also that one Disney Channel movie with gossip and texting...we don't talk about that.

Anyways, 'Harriet the Spy' is a perfect 2000s cartoon throwback. If you told me this cartoon was made in like 2003, I'd believe you. The show studiously avoids modern references and culture, instead using outdated technology like payphone that gives the show a retro feel. Along with the air of rebellion that comes with Harriet's subversive attitude and the show's punk theme song (which I hope will be on Spotify)

The writing and animation are also reminiscent of 2000s cartoons. In particular, the animation feels like it was made by Saerom (it was actually made by Titmouse, who is also good), with a strong emphasis on hand-drawn lines. The writing is clever and kid-friendly without trying to be overly self-aware, hip and trendy, or faux-relatable like certain 2020s-present cartoons (heck, even ones I like). These factors help it stand out from the crowd.

I have no clue who Beanie Feldstein is, but she proved to be a great voice for Harriet. The show and characters are compelling and just plain fun. Helping out a crazy cat lady, voting on who wears a coat better, etc. The overall aesthetic and feel of the show is something that recent animation has been sorely lacking. It proves that you don't need to have some grand story in order to be a great show. 

If you liked the book or the 1996 movie, or just want something hilarious yet cozy to watch, I recommend Harriet The Spy. 

Animation - 2/2

Characters - 2/2

Music - 2/2

Writing - 2/2

Voice Acting - 2/2

OVERALL - 10/10


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