As said many times, have always had a lifelong love of animation, old and new. Disney, Studio Ghibli, Hanna Barbera, Tom and Jerry, Hanna Barbera, Looney Tunes and also the works of Tex Avery and Fleischer. With a broader knowledge of animation styles, directors, studios and how it was all done actually love it even more now.
It's not just animation held in very high regard by me. Have also had an undying lifelong love for the classic stories of the Grimm Brothers. Their tales are beautifully written, full of soul, imagination and joy and enchanting in their own way, if quite dark in some stories and at times gruesome, and with many memorable characters that are iconic in literature. Their fame, importance and the timeless appeal of their stories are more than justified and Would see any adaptation of his work, animation or live-action, and there have been numerous times where his work has lent well to animation.
For an introduction to their stories if unfamiliar with them, this overlooked German animated series 'Simsala Grimm' (although there are a few episodes with other authors) fits the bill very nicely. Even those familiar with the stories are likely to find the series and how it approaches and tells the stories featured interesting. It was great to see the famous tales and also the not so familiar and not often adapted ones. In its own right, 'Simsala Grimm' is quite well done, not one of my favourites but it's an interesting approach to the various stories and a great way to introduce newcomers to them, which will give them the want to read the stories.
Based on a slight but justifiably well known story, 'The Frog Prince' is pretty good though there are better episodes of the series. It is perfect for younger audiences and with more than enough to satisfy the older crowd.
It does feel somewhat padded in places, the story is a slight one in the first place and not everything felt necessary.
Do like the characters of Doc Croc and Yoyo but there is a little too much of them here, some of their input is not always crucial to the story and wastes time. The dialogue is corny occasionally.
Doc Croc and Yoyo are entertaining and likeable characters and their roles in telling the story and playing roles in them, namely being helpful or being voices of reason, are done cleverly. Yoyo is adorable and funny as always.
'The Frog Prince's' characters are interesting enough, with the protagonist being charming and rootable. The voice acting fits them well.
More so than not, the story is engaging, ideally paced and entertaining and relaxing to watch, with emotional impact and cuteness. All the crucial scenes are done well. There is plenty for youngsters, without being juvenile or dumbed down, while also enough for adults feeling nostalgic and traditionalists. The writing is neither too complicated or simplistic, and entertains and charms.
The animation is quite nice and easy on the eyes as an overall whole. Simple and not always imaginative, but generally colourful, nicely detailed, fluidly drawn and the charming traditional look was perfect. The music fits well and is dynamic. The intro has a nostalgic charm and love the storybook once upon a time approach.
In conclusion, pretty good. 7/10 Bethany Cox
