Review: The Owl House

Rating: 9.5/10

"The Owl House" is a Disney show often regarded as a successor to "Gravity Falls," and it certainly lives up to that standard, particularly as it includes the creator of Gravity Falls voicing one of the main characters and Dana Terrance, who did storyboarding for it before creating "The Owl House". Despite being a Disney production, "The Owl House" pushes the boundaries of what is traditionally allowed and perceived in children’s media. It provides tasteful representation of LGBT communities and includes subtle mentions of darker topics, which contribute to character growth without making them feel shallow or forced unlike many new movies or shows are currently doing.

The show resonated deeply with me, as I discovered it during a very strange point in my life and it helped me realise that I was ok to be me due to how similarly I would act to Luz who is likely neurodivergent and has RSD. It is overwhelmingly wholesome, yet intricately explores serious issues through its characters and plot. One of the standout aspects is its depiction of one of the most irredeemable villains in cartoon history. "The Owl House" addresses themes of homesickness, struggling to fit in, the experience of being neurodivergent, and the fear of not being accepted by others.

Season Breakdown:

Season 1: The first season spends most of its time establishing Luz and the characters of the demon realm. It can occasionally feel disjointed, as seen in the body swap episode, but it effectively furthers Luz's relationship with magic and the other characters. While it has its flaws, these can be overlooked due to a rushed production schedule. The foundation it sets is crucial for the improvements seen in the following seasons.

Season 2: The second season greatly improves on the characters and their identities, with a significantly more plot-heavy approach. The deeper exploration of the characters' backgrounds and motivations adds richness to the narrative, making the world of "The Owl House" even more engaging.

Season 3: Unfortunately, the third season was never completed, resulting in only three episodes that wrap up the show. Despite this, the finale is amazing, tying up loose ends and delivering a fantastic conclusion. However, a downside is the limited screen time for Amity and Luz, as the focus shifts more towards the core cast, such as King and Eda, and all the trio have gone through.

(Almost) every character in "The Owl House" is likeable and serves a purpose, making it easy to get lost in such a mystical world. Although I don't usually write reviews, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on this show because it matters a lot to me and holds a special place in my heart.

Final Thoughts:

"The Owl House" is a remarkable show that blends fantasy, humour, and heartfelt moments seamlessly. Its willingness to tackle complex topics and its dedication to character development set it apart from other animated series. Whether you're looking for a whimsical escape, an easy binge watch or a show with depth and meaning, "The Owl House" is a must-watch.