Have you ever re-watched a TV/streaming series for the umpteenth time just because there’s nothing else to watch? If you find yourself doomscrolling through Netflix’s library, don’t worry – we’ve been there. If you’re tired of watching traditional live-action shows (over and over again), then why not give the world of animation a try?
The world of animated series has been cooking, and 2024 is shaping up to be a stellar year for the genre. So put that remote down, prepare some popcorn and settle in, because here are five animated shows that you’ll be watching from beginning to end:
Invincible (Amazon Prime Video)
Even if you’re not invested in the world of animation, you might have heard of a TV series called “Invincible,” which made waves online as far back as 2021 via reviews, breakdowns and even memes. Well, its reputation has been rightfully earned, as this comic adaptation has been a bloody great series – with a heavy emphasis on “bloody.”
The series follows Mark Grayson, a half-human/half-alien who aspires to be an incredible superhero, just like his father. However, things are not as peachy as he thought they would be, as he is constantly struggling to keep his world (figuratively and literally) from falling apart from alien threats, costume supervillains, and powerful psychopaths. It’s a thrilling series, packed with hard-core action as well as emotional sequences that aim straight for the heart. And with Season 2 all wrapped up, there’s no better time to stop thinking and start watching.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Netflix)
You can probably count on one hand the number of stories that begin when everything ends – and there are even fewer stories that execute this method of storytelling to an exceptional degree. “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” is one of those rare stories.
The show focuses on an elven mage named Frieren after she has saved the world with a party of fellow heroes. Being an elf, Frieren has an exceptionally long lifespan and is largely indifferent to human life, something she only begins to understand when one of her former party members dies of old age. She then ventures off in hopes of reuniting with her late friend to fully express her feelings and say goodbye properly. Though the plot may seem heavy, it’s littered with lighthearted moments as well as magical showdowns that are as epic as the characters are endearing.
Hazbin Hotel (Amazon Prime Video/YouTube)
Even if you’re only vaguely familiar with Christianity, you’re probably acquainted with the book of Genesis via various mainstream retellings and interpretations of its stories. Hazbin Hotel is one such story – with a lot less literary drama and more adult humour and music.
Following Lilith and Lucifier’s fall from grace, their daughter, Princess Charlotte Morningstar, sets out to realise her seemingly impossible dream of opening a hotel called “Hazbin Hotel,” which aims to rehabilitate sinner demons. It is a dark yet colourful, cheery but dreary musical comedy that might not be for everyone, but is still something worth giving an honest shot at.
Delicious In Dungeon (Netflix)
Picture this: you are a part of an adventuring party in a fantasy world, and your sibling was just devoured by a dragon, and you need to make preparations to go back in and save them. What’s the first step in your preparation? You kill monsters and cook them into gourmet meals. That is the silly yet seemingly grim plot of “Delicious In Dungeon.”
From scorpion hotpots to man-eating plant fruit tarts, the show goes into great detail on how to cook creatures in a very entertaining yet comedic way. If you’re craving something to eat, this might help you get an idea of what you want for later, or if you’re on a diet, this can help stop those cravings — it works both ways!
X-Men ‘97 (Disney+)
Now, a little something for the older generation. X-Men ‘97, as the name suggests, is a continuation of the original X-Men: The Animated Series that ran from 1992 to 1997. The series picks up a year later, after Professor Xavier leaves Earth in the original series. Much like the original run of the show, it tackles heavy themes such as inclusion, bigotry, and equality – but doesn’t become too preachy with its message.
Since its release, the series has received critical acclaim, with many hailing it as superior to the original series. What’s more, most of the original cast makes a return to reprise their roles as your favourite mutants. Though the bar for entry might be a little higher for some people, as it requires you to watch the show’s previous incarnation, it’s still worth it, as it’s touted as one of Marvel’s best release in years.
