By Hillary Donnell
Staff Writer
This is quite possibly one of the most exciting eras in television animation to date and, quality wise, the material being produced is certainly on par with that of the 90’s animation renaissance. Even better, in this humble writer’s opinion.
“Gravity Falls” is a prime example of the modern age of auteur animation. “Gravity Falls” was created by CalArts alumni Alex Hirsch. The show first aired in June 2012 and is currently in its second season.
“Gravity Falls” follows the wacky misadventures of a pair of twins, Dipper and Mabel, who visit their eccentric Grunkle (or great uncle) Stan for a summer. The town of Gravity Falls, Oregon is weird and wonderful, filled with supernatural creatures, bizarre locals, and surrounded by an alluring air of mystery.
The series has built up an impressive mythology in its 30-odd episode run. The influence of cult classic series such as the “X Files” and “Twin Peaks” is clear. One does not expect too much continuity in cartoons, though these people should really reconsider what they expect from animation, as it is a medium rather than a genre and is thus incredibly diverse.
“Gravity Falls” refuses to assume its viewers are anything but voracious mystery hunters, willing to search frame by frame for secret codes and meticulously rewatch old episodes for clues.
The stakes are high in the show—higher than one might expect. When something changes in Gravity Falls, it stays changed. Forever. The mid-season finale, which aired March 9, ended with a twist that has left longtime viewers simultaneously shocked and satisfied. There had always been evidence hinting at the event that occurred, and careful viewers were able to piece it together from an impossibly small breadcrumb trail of clues.
The show features a complex cast of characters, both male and female. The male to female ratio of the main cast is 3:2, which is more even than the average five-person core cast in both live action and animated shows, which generally features only one female character.
However, it is too bad that there is not a particularly large cast of secondary and tertiary female characters. The two primary female characters, Mabel and Wendy, are well-crafted, multifaceted characters who play a large role in both the action and the humor elements of the series. It is an unfortunate trend in comedy writing to block female characters from making their own jokes, turning them into eye-rolling, fun-snipping machines. Overall, the humor is witty and fun, though it falls victim to the cisheteronormativity that plagues the comedy genre.
The strong writing, breathtaking animation, and wonderfully bizarre cast are sure to keep viewers of all ages entertained. A fair warning to new viewers—this show is like quicksand; it will pull you in and nothing will ever be the same again.
“Gravity Falls” can be found on Disney XD as well as the Disney Channel and is currently available for purchase on iTunes. Right now is the perfect time to start watching or catch up, as the show will be on hiatus until the summer.
