Gargoyles

"Gargoyles" is an impressive, animated series that aired on ABC (later moved to UPN) from 1994 through until 1997. It is a fantastic fusion of traditional cartoon-craft and more futuristic, science fiction elements, establishing it as one of the more unique entries within the animation genre during the 1990s.

Conceived and produced by Greg Weisman, the series is set in New York City and follows the life of nocturnal creatures known as gargoyles. These creatures, in contrast to their often-perceived inanimate nature, have an alternate universe where they exist as living beings – a universe brought to life through the fantastical lens of "Gargoyles". The gargoyles awake from stone sleep when the sun sets and return to a stone state at sunrise, dwelling on the buildings as gargoyles usually would during the daylight hours.

The lead character of the series is Goliath, a commanding yet compassionate gargoyle whose wisdom and strength makes him a charismatic and engaging lead. Alongside him are his loyal gargoyle clan members, each character with their distinctive personality traits. There's the intellectually curious Lexington, the muscular but jovial Broadway, the irascible Brooklyn, the old but energetic Hudson, and Goliath's love interest, Eliza Maza, a detective in the NYPD.

The show begins with a medieval setting in Scotland where betrayal and a spell cast upon the gargoyles, that turns them into stone until the castle rises above the clouds, chains them to a stone sleep. This spell is broken when a billionaire businessman named David Xanatos moves the castle to the top of his skyscraper in modern-day New York. Awakened in a time and world different from their own, the Gargoyles must navigate their way through the complexities of the 20th century, all the while protecting their new home from various threats.

Providing a unique blend of dark elements with humor, "Gargoyles" offers a compelling storyline that transcends the conventional boundaries of animation, making it appeal not only to kids but also to adults who appreciate depth and narrative complexity. Themes of loyalty, friendship, world cultures, and moral dilemmas pepper the series, making it an interesting and thought-provoking watch.

One of the major highlights are the antagonists that the Gargoyles face, David Xanatos, and Demona, Goliath’s former lover. Xanatos is a wealthy businessman with exceptional intelligence, using machiavellian tactics to manipulate the gargoyles to suit his plans. Demona, on the other hand, is filled with hatred for humans due to past betrayals, becoming a recurring threat and emotional hurdle for the Gargoyles, especially Goliath.

Moreover, "Gargoyles" also excels in its production quality. The animation is highly praised for its cinematic feel and gothic design, combined with robust voice performances from actors like Keith David, Ed Asner, and Marina Sirtis. Likewise, the intricate and detailed animations make every character distinct and memorable, and the dark urban vibe of New York City is a character in its own right.

Integral to the charm of the "Gargoyles" series is the unique concept that allows it to seamlessly travel between historical events and futuristic scenarios, moving from the medieval Scottish highlands to the towering skyscrapers of New York. It introduces heavy ideas while managing to retain a connective storyline across episodes.

The show makes great use of cliffhangers and continuity, delivering mature themes of redemption, regret, and consequences. The relationships, interactions, and conflicts among the character are well weaved and represent the ageless clash between good and evil, duty, and personal desires.

Despite its three-season run, "Gargoyles" managed to capture a cult following through its layered storytelling, complex characters, and captivating animation. Viewed through today's lens, the series stood for ahead-of-its-time, engaging, and sophisticated storytelling that managed to reshape the standards of children's animated programming.