Unnatural History

Unnatural History is a unique production from the renowned media conglomerate, Cartoon Network. Despite the name, this live-action series deviates from the traditional animated creations Cartoon Network is known for. Premiering in 2010, this action/comedy-drama is a breath of fresh air for those seeking a change from graphical animation, offering intriguing adventures laced with educational historical narratives that all engage audiences of all ages. The prominent role is beautifully brought to life by Kevin Schmidt, who delivers a splendid performance throughout the show's narrative.

The premise of Unnatural History revolves around Henry Griffin, a globe-trotting teenager with a knack for delving deep into ancient world history. Kevin Schmidt portrays the character with palpable enthusiasm, infusing Griffin with an impeccable sense of wit and courage. Unlike any regular teenager, Henry has acquired mastery in arcane skills from traveling the globe with his anthropologist parents. From martial arts to wilderness survival, deciphering ancient tribal languages to recognizing the medicinal characteristics of rare plants, his unique constitution resembles the image of a young Indiana Jones.

The plot picks up pace when Henry Griffin's parents decide it is time for Henry to have a more conventional upbringing and send him back to America to live with his cousin, Jasper Bartlett (Jordan Gavaris), and their Uncle Bryan (Martin Donovan) in Washington D.C. It is thereafter that Henry finds himself enrolled in the complex world of the high school system at Smithson High, a school which intriguingly happens to be located in the National Museum Complex.

Navigating this new environment, Henry's unusual skills don't take long to surface, often landing him in curious situations, be it unnerving the school bully or puzzling the teachers. His adventures take a more exciting turn when he, Jasper, and their new friend Maggie Winnock (Italia Ricci), uncover a secret room within the school premises. The room, packed with innumerable artifacts, hidden treasures, and forgotten historical secrets, opens doors to a series of unpredictable mysteries whipping their routine high-school lives into an exciting pandemonium.

Unnatural History thrives on clever storytelling, meticulously tying archaeological facts into thrilling storylines, giving audiences an enriching, adventurous experience. What starts as a simple high school story evolves into a calculated series of mysteries and mind-bending riddles grounded in the framework of ancient world history. The transition from the mundane confines of typical school life to the enchanting world of historical eccentricities is brilliant, capturing viewers' imagination throughout the series run.

Aided by a strong supporting cast including Jordan Gavaris' quirky character Jasper, who is a stark contrast to Henry's adventurous persona, and Italia Ricci's character Maggie, a smart and driven student head of the school's disciplinary committee, the show manages to create a perfect balance between fast-paced historical adventure and everyday teenage dilemmas.

Kevin Schmidt's portrayal of an adventurous archaeologist at such a tender age, combined with his witty high-school-boy charisma shapes the USP of Unnatural History. The well-crafted storyline, the artistic infusion of facts within fiction, and the carefully incubated suspense make the show an enjoyable watch. Interlaced with comedic elements arising from mundane high school experiences to dramatic mysteries solved through critical thinking, it leaves viewers constantly longing for more.

Unnatural History is a captivating watch for viewers who enjoy an adventure series loaded with numerous elements: comedy, drama, history, mystery, and action. The series aims to inspire viewers, particularly youngsters, by promoting inquisitive learning, the habit of asking questions, and the excitement of unraveling critical mysteries. The depiction of high-school students solving historical mysteries adds an educational layer to the entertainment, blending facts with fiction to stimulate learning in a fun and engaging manner.

In an unconventional manner, Unnatural History successfully combines history, mystery, and teenage adventure, putting forth a new trend in the genre of action/comedy-drama series. It embodies the perfect integration of absorbing entertainment and knowledgeable content, making it a truly memorable production from Cartoon Network's live-action series portfolio.