Kong: The Animated Series

Kong: The Animated Series is an exciting and action-packed animated television series, produced by BKN International, that telecast on TeleToon from 2000 to 2001. Combining elements of high adventure, technology, and Mythical beasts, the show takes the classic King Kong story's fundamentals and adds several fresh contemporary twists to make the narrative more engaging and relatable for younger audiences.

The series follows a new generation of characters, positioning Kong not as a mindless monster but as a protective guardian of the natural world against harmful forces and greedy exploiters. The show's standout feature is that Kong's core characteristics have been drastically altered, elevating him from just a giant ape to a more sophisticated character who can rationalize, strategize, and form strong bonds.

The plot unfolds on Kong Island, a mystical, prehistoric land thriving with strange creatures and exotic flora. Dr. Lorna Jenkins, a renowned scientist, uses advanced technology to preserve Kong's DNA successfully, by blending it with her grandson, Jason's DNA. Thus, the new Kong is born, symbolizing the union of nature and science, holding immense physical strength and a heroic sense of justice.

Jason, an intelligent and brave teenager, is the main protagonist of Kong: The Animated Series. With his biological connection to Kong, he shares a brotherly bond with the beast and can morph with him into a powerful force, known as Mega Kong, in times of crisis. Moreover, Jason's life expands beyond Kong Island, providing viewers glimpses of his regular life, his time at the school, and his connection with friends who eventually become part of his adventures.

One such friend, Lua, a native islander, is a spiritual eco-warrior with a deep understanding of nature, history and the mystical creatures of Kong Island. Another key character is Eric "Tan" Tannenbaum IV, a technology-savvy socialite who aids Jason and Lua in their saga. Together, they embark upon nerve-racking adventures, solving complex mysteries, battling dangerous villains, and protecting Kong Island's invaluable treasures from countless threats.

What impresses most about Kong: The Animated Series is its villains, as dastardly in their plans as they are diverse in their personalities. At the forefront is Ramone De La Porta, a disgraced anthropologist whose encounter with a mystical artifact, the Primal Stone, corrupts him. He emerges as the primary antagonist of the series, whose greed to harness Kong Island's power forces our protagonist to constantly thwart his evil schemes.

The show's animation and design are praiseworthy, equipped with subtle yet vibrant colors that playfully tweak viewer's imagination, positioning it as a place outside the ordinary world. Similarly, the show's character designs reflect their nature and roles in the series, whether it is Kong's awe-inspiring stature, Lua's tribal elegance, or De La Porta's menacing aura.

Kong: The Animated Series does a commendable job of blending action and excitement with environmental awareness and education. The show demonstrates respect for nature throughout its episodes, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity. Furthermore, the concept of DNA merging is a clever way of exposing young audiences to basic genetic concepts.

The writers have inserted a good dose of humor throughout the series, keeping the narrative light-hearted and engaging. Characters frequently engage in witty dialogues and slapstick humor, ensuring that the show doesn't become overly serious or intimidating for its target demographic.

Lastly, Kong: The Animated Series answers the call for more progressive and inclusive representation in children's media. Lua stands as a strong female character, leading with wisdom and bravery without being overtly sexualized, as often happens with women's portrayal in media.

Despite the series’ brief run, Kong: The Animated Series left its mark as a distinct take on the classic King Kong storyline. It’s unique blend of action, adventure, humor, science, and environmental awareness have made it a noteworthy offering from TeleToon. So, buckle up for an exhilarating journey with Kong and his companions, who will surely keep you entertained and enraptured on their heroic exploits on Kong Island.