Central Park

Central Park is an animated musical television series originating from Apple TV+ in 2020. While the title might suggest a documentary about the world-famous public park in New York City, Central Park is a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and music that revolves around a fascinating family living right in the middle of the iconic location.

The series is centered on the witty and endearing park manager Owen Tillerman and his family. Owen is married to Paige, a journalist, and they have two children, the creative and imaginative Molly, and the nerdy, music-loving Cole. They all live in Edendale Castle in the park itself, which Owen manages with an iron fist. Though this unique living situation can complicate their lives, it also renders the Tiller family as the unofficial guardians of Central Park.

The Tillerman family not only grapples with their day-to-day familial dynamics but also battles with the greedy and self-entitled heiress Bitsy Brandenham and her ever-loyal assistant, Helen. Bitsy aims to buy Central Park and transform it into a profit-making concrete establishment. The Tillermans, therefore, frequently find themselves in the middle of a David versus Goliath-esque battle, as they struggle to protect the park they call home.

Central Park is built on the charm and humor that you would expect from any standout animated series. However, what makes it unique is its impressive musical component. The show is full of energetically choreographed musical numbers that are well integrated into the plot. Created by Loren Bouchard, the show is clearly inspired by his breakthrough animated series Bob’s Burgers, but he has added a distinct and delightful flair in this new creation.

The animation in Central Park is delightful, matching the vibrant energy of New York City. Melding detailed character designs and backgrounds with smooth expressive character animations makes for a visually compelling series. The color palette is bright and cheery, reflecting the spirit of the park and the city surrounding it.

The voice acting in Central Park is praiseworthy as well, featuring a star-studded cast. Leslie Odom Jr. of Hamilton fame lends his voice to Owen, rising to the musical demands of the role with his Tony Award-winning talent. Meanwhile, Kathryn Hahn plays the determined Paige with aplomb, while Kristen Bell and Tituss Burgess delightfully play the roles of the two Tillerman kids. Stanley Tucci and Daveed Diggs, as Bitsy Brandenham and Helen respectively, form a comedic duo that constantly keeps viewers chuckling.

The show also doesn't shy away from representing diversity. Central Park proudly showcases a multiracial family while subtly addressing the issues of class and privilege through the continued rivalry between the park-loving Tillerman family and the wealth-driven Brandenhams. It adds depth to the seemingly light-hearted and hilarious narrative and allows for more complex character development and growth.

As well as offering musical numbers and laughs, Central Park also gives viewers charming scenery. The show ingeniously uses the park's real and well-known elements, including the statue of Balto, the Bethesda Fountain, and the Loeb Boathouse. The keen attention given to keeping the representation of Central Park itself accurate adds to the series' authenticity, making viewers feel they are part of this vibrant world.

In summary, Central Park is a musical, comedic roller-coaster ride. With a unique set-up, catchy tunes, and endearing characters, it's more than just an animated show—it's a loving ode to one of New York's famous landmarks and the city itself. Through the amusing and adventurous lives of the Tillerman family, it offers a distinctly metropolitan vibe, a clash of the classes, and the drama of day-to-day family life, while also emphasizing the importance of community spirit and preserving public spaces.

Season after season, as the Tillerman family continues to woo viewers with their antics, Central Park reveals itself to be a melting pot of comedy, drama, music, and a great deal of city love, well worth watching for those who enjoy animated series with an innovative flair. So, if you are a fan of animation, musicals, or just looking for a show with heart and humor, Central Park certainly fits the bill.