Hilda is a show I did not expect to love as much as I do. What could've been passed off as a decent show for children turned out to be a fantastic show for all ages. With an amazing cast of characters, creative world building and strong writing, this show stands toe to toe with the likes of Steven Universe as one of the best cartoons from the 2010s.
Based on the book series by Luke Pearson, the show follows the adventures of the titular blue haired girl, Hilda, alongside her deerfox companion Twig, her friends David and Frida, her elf scribe Alfur and her mother Johanna. Set in the quaint city of Trollberg, each episode of the show finds Hilda exploring the wilderness around the city and discovering fantastical new creatures. In addition to that she learns valuable lessons about actions and consequences, being a good friend and being responsible. The show wisely incorporates genuine stakes in each episode as well as a good amount of humor and a sense of wonder to this world so as to prevent dragging. The show also takes the time to add character to not just the fantastical creatures, but also the people of Trollberg.
Transitioning to the characters, just about every single one of the main cast is well developed, has a strong personality and have excellent chemistry with one another. Starting with our leading lady, Hilda is very much the epitome of an adventurous tomboy with a heart of gold. She's brave, curious, cautious and optimistic, making her a well rounded character audiences can relate to. Her deerfox companion Twig is brave like Hilda but also very loyal and friendly. Plus, he's just got an adorable design that makes me wish he was real. Hilda's Mom, Johanna is a very well written portrayal of a single mother. She's caring, she's helpful, she worries for Hilda and she's also resourceful when the moment calls for it. Alfur is a smart, honest little elf that comes up with genius plans to save the day and his fascination with all of Trollberg is always a treat. David and Frida are two haves of the same coin. David may be fearful and Frida's alot more brave but one thing they have in common is that they couldn't wish for a better friend than Hilda. Hilda actually helps David learn to overcome his fears and her and Frida may have their differences but very much remain good friends. Other notable characters that appear in the show include the librarian, the Wood Man, The Great Raven and the lost elf clan.
In addition to great characters, this show has a very talented voice cast behind it. Bella Ramsey plays Hilda beautifully and makes her sound like a real little girl with a heart of gold. Daisy Haggard gives a very good performance as Johanna, making her sound like a real caring Mom to a very adventurous girl. Ameerah Falzon-Ojo and Oliver Nelson fit the roles of Frida and David perfectly, with Ilan Galkoff providing a beautiful singing voice to David. Thomas & Friends fans will be happy to recognize Rasmus Hardiker as the voice of Alfur as he gives him such a cute and friendly voice that matches his personality.
Visually, the show looks stupendous. Mercury Filmworks and Atomic Cartoons provided the animation for the show and it looks amazing. The color palette has a nice autumn feel to it, the animation feels so smooth and natural and the designs of the characters are all unique fit with their personalities. I especially love the designs of the fantastical creatures and how no two creatures are alike. I once again have to bring up that Twigs design is so adorable. When he sleeps he curls up into a ball with his long tail wrapped around and it's just so cute.
Hilda is without a doubt one of Netflix's best cartoons and it's not hard to see why. It's got a great cast of characters, amazing animation, stellar voice work, and strong, clever writing. Really the only gripe I have is in Season 2, the head of safety patrol Erik Alhberg is just an arrogant town's hero who only cares about the glory. Thankfully the rest of the cast is so great I'm willing to let it slide. If you haven't seen Hilda yet, I highly recommend giving it a watch. I guarantee you'll want to explore this world too as much as Hilda.
