‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’ Is Wholesome, Pure Joy [Review]

Marvel’s latest comic to television adaptation Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur is wholesome and a pure joy to watch! The series follows the adventures of 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette (voiced by Diamond White). Through her genius, Lunella accidentally brings Devil Dinosaur into present-day New York City. Soon forming an instant bond, the duo works together to protect the city’s Lower East Side from danger.

The pilot episode of Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur is sweet, funny, and smart. It focuses on the importance of relationships, community, and different types of intelligence. You can read our spoiler-free review below.

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur: A Joy To Watch

Relationships 

Relationships are at the core of what is important to Lunella. Her relationship with her family and her need to protect them are what motivate her to become a superhero. The family dynamic is wholesome and loving, with parents and grandparents to love one another and Lunella. It’s a beautiful example of how you don’t need a tragic backstory to be a superhero. 

The relationships in this animated series resemble the dynamics in Marvel’s Ms. Marvel live-action series. Ms. Marvel also has a strong relationship with her family. And her family is a part of the reason that she is a great hero. The main difference between the two shows is that Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur is geared towards a younger audience. However, despite the fact that the show was crafted for children, it’s still incredibly enjoyable for adults. It has the makings of a great family show. 

Community-Driven

Lunella is driven by a need to help her family and her community. She understands the struggles of her neighborhood and is willing to do what she can to help. Similar to Peter Parker’s Spider-Man, she is a neighborhood hero. The theme of the show is that “one girl can make a difference.” And while that is absolutely true, it is the community of friends, family, and neighbors who also make a difference. 

The problems that the neighborhood faces in the series are relatable and not uncommon. Many neighborhoods face similar struggles. And speak to the power and ability that many kids wished they had. The ability to make a difference for themselves and the world around them. 

Intelligence at the center 

One of the most endearing elements of the show is its focus on all types of intelligence. Even the origin story of how Moon Girl chose her superhero name is rooted in a love of science. While Lunella Lafayette is gifted with Tony Stark-level genius, it’s not the only kind of intelligence that is important. And so it is her family that helps Lunella battle her struggles with imposter syndrome and emotional regulation. Emotional intelligence is just as valued on the show as logical-mathematical intelligence. 

Lunella’s best friend Casey is gifted with intrapersonal intelligence that manifests itself as social media influence. However, Casey’s influencer status and ability aren’t looked down upon as a type of vanity. It’s looked at as a strategic advantage. Casey helps to do good in her community by helping spread awareness and supporting Moon Girl. 

And so the relationships on the show and how people support one another is just one way the show is wholesome and makes you feel good. The well-timed jokes and the way the show doesn’t take itself too seriously also make it a joy to watch.

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur premieres February 10th on Disney Channel and February 15th on Disney+.

Meanwhile, check back to THS for more reviews and Marvel updates.

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