Babar

Babar, aired by HBO in 1989, is an animated children's show that trails the life of Babar the Elephant as he navigates through the complexities of life and growing up. Babar, the protagonist, is accompanied by a host of colourful characters from the animal kingdom, each representing a unique persona, reflecting the diverse characters we might encounter in everyday life. The series beautifully amalgamates fun, excitement, and life lessons with a touch of royal intrigue, making it a sure hit among children and adults alike.

Based on the popular French children’s book series by Jean de Brunhoff in 1931, the show offers a strong aura of nostalgia, taking the viewer on a thrilling journey through the unique kingdom of animals. The series narrates the story of the protagonist, Babar, his experiences, his journeys, and the lessons learned through them. He begins his life happily in the wilderness until his mother is killed by hunters, a tragic moment that paves his path towards his life in a human city where he learns about civilization, manners, and living as an anthropomorphic elephant.

Babar dresses in a bright green suit and grows to become king, ruling a fictional city called Celesteville while passing on his knowledge and experiences to a young generation of elephants. King Babar's sense of duty, his courage, and his straightforward and honest approach to problems form the bedrock of the show, tying together the various narrative arcs and individual episodes into a seamless, continuously evolving storyline.

This animated series, rich with detailed environmental designs and character animations, builds an immersive visual experience. The captivating narratives become even more intriguing with layered narratives that touch upon themes about friendship, honesty, perseverance, courage, and the value of home and family. The intricate illustrations, vivid color palettes, and innovative sequences lend a unique charm to the show, making it a feast for the eyes.

The character of Babar, while adventurous and brave, is also tender and kind-hearted. With his wisdom and gentle nature, he guides his friends and family through the challenges they face in Celesteville. His wife, Queen Celeste, and his children, Pom, Flora, and Alexander, reinforce the theme of love, unity, and family bonds, each playing their respective roles in the grandeur of the kingdom’s life.

The story arcs also introduce viewers to Babar's confident and refined advisor, Cornelius, and the amusing old lady who brought Babar into the city. Babar's childhood friends also figure prominently, including the playful monkey Zephir and the grumpy rhinoceros Rataxes. Their presence adds an extra layer of depth and diversity to the narrative, helping to create a setting that's colourful, lively, and ever-engaging.

Babar also delves into the essential dynamics of human virtues and vices. Notably, King Babar's arch-nemesis, Lord Rataxes, is a representation of the constant challenges one has to face in life. His constant plots against Babar paints a storyline of rivalry and cunning, yet it also highlights trust, friendship, bravery, and the spirit of never giving up.

While primarily designed as a children's show, Babar encapsulates carefully plotted moral lessons that are both nuanced and essential. The series uses its characters and their distinct personalities to portray different facets of life, thereby teaching children moral values and life lessons subtly and vividly.

Blending the beauty of French aesthetics with timeless storytelling — delivered through a lovable monarch elephant, Babar presents viewers with an enchanting world that's as educative as it's entertaining. Refreshing even in repeated viewings, the series is a testament to why the charm of the classic story of Babar the Elephant is far from fading, even more than three decades after its first broadcast.