Okay, here is the truth. The ThunderCats on Cartoon Network is a better show than I thought it would be and a better show than it should be. I was never a fan of the Rankin/Bass 1985 original show. One of the main reasons for that is also one of the reasons I like the current version so much more. The reason? Say it with me now – Snarf.
Snarf in the new version of the ThunderCats is silent much of the time. There is no ‘Lion-O don’t do that’ or ‘I’ll protect you, Lion-O.’ This irritating character’s silence alone got my attention, but what has kept my attention has been the stunning visuals and a good storyline.
From the opening scene of the pilot episode, “The Sword of Omens,” the visual style, including the backgrounds reminded me of Avatar: The Last Airbender. That is a compliment. The director, Sean Song, has worked on The Boondocks, Teen Titans and Heavy Gear: The Animated Series and his touch is evident everywhere. The wonderful Andrea Romano, whose credentials are too long to list, again hits a homerun with her voice direction. In the end, we get a well-crafted hero’s journey as Lion-O learns to lead and to listen to those who follow him.
Forget the ThunderCats origin stories you grew up with in the 80’s. The tales of the current series are more focused, more adult and more stunning than you witnessed before. Make a point to watch this show. It works!