Swashbuckling pirates, drug smugglers, bungling detectives, an intrepid reporter, and a loyal canine companion . . . The Adventures of Tintin Season One has it all!
I was not familiar with Tintin, based on Belgian artist Hergé’s classic comic books, until I learned that Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson were working together to make a film based on the series. And though the movie won’t be released in theaters until December 21, everyone can become acquainted with Tintin and his dog Snowy by watching the The Adventures of Tintin DVD set. Tintin travels the globe as he uncovers secrets and solves mysteries, accompanied by surly sea captain Captain Haddock and the bungling detective twins Thomson & Thompson.
This is a two-DVD set that contains seven episodes, including two that inspired the upcoming feature film: The Secret of the Unicorn and Red Rackham’s Treasure. In addition to the new movie and the animated series, Tintin and his friends have appeared in a BBC radio series and stage plays. The graphic novels have been translated in 80 languages and have been published in over 50 countries. A quick glance at Amazon reveals that the graphic novels can be purchased online, including a collector’s set that combines 23 issues.
But the real question is, should you buy the DVD set? Yes! I heartily recommend it. From the moment I saw the fast-paced opening title sequence, I knew I would love it. You can view the “Adventure Montage” below:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOSBHIwzpB4
I also think the voices are perfect for the characters, the animation is lovely, and the stories are captivating. Often, animated series are directed at children, but Tintin most certainly is not. While kids may enjoy it, I think it’s mostly for adults who can appreciate the well-written dialogue and suspenseful plots. Tintin often gets involved in dangerous cases, and waiting to see how he’ll get out of the next scrape keeps you glued to your seat.
He reminds me a little bit of Nancy Drew in that he seems to naturally stumble into these mysteries and tends to put all of the pieces together before the so-called professionals even realize what has happened. He’s also very friendly, genuine, and smart, which makes him a very easy character to like.
The supporting cast is equally great. Captain Haddock isn’t quite as sharp as Tintin, but he’s very spirited and entertaining to watch. And though the visual gags with the detective twins could likely get old after watching too many episodes, I love their accents. A little reminiscent of Mr. Banks in Mary Poppins, perhaps.
This is easily one of the best animated series I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m now even more eager to see the film.