Old and new, discover epic shows that will transport you to magical realms. Inter-planetary travel is a recurring theme but never in an overwhelming way (speaking as someone who dislikes the topic!) and more as a means to build new worlds. Let me know your favourites and suggestions below.
7. Bee and PuppyCat: Lazy In Space
This show feels like one of those lo-fi YouTube channels that plays soft music while an animated image slowly loops in the background. Actually, quite a lot happens, but never will you feel rushed. Soothing and enveloping. The show started on YouTube and a new season is now on Netflix.
Imdb Synopsis: The second season of beloved web series Bee and PuppyCat after a nearly five near break. The season picks back up the cheerful 22-year old Bee and intergalactic space warrior for a set of adventures. 8.6/10
Created by: Natasha Allegri
6. The Dragon Prince
Granted I was not as enthralled by the second season as I was the first one but nonetheless, The Dragon Prince‘s take on life’s big dilemmas such as grief and revenge are never lacking in nuance and depth. Plus you have to love the diversity of queer representation on this magical show. Segmented into chapters in the style of Avatar: The Last Airbender from the same creator (Aaron Ehasz).
Imdb Synopsis: Two human princes forge an unlikely bond with the elfin assassin sent to kill them, embarking on an epic quest to bring peace to their warring lands. 8.3/10
Created by: Aaron Ehasz, Justin Richmond
5.Arcane
Quite a change of pace from the other shows mentioned, Arcane is an action-heavy post-apocalyptic masterpiece with a killer soundtrack. With an accent on social inequalities, this show unties the fragile bonds of family and privilege. You may cry- and then join the rest of us in waiting for the next season.
Imdb Synopsis: Set in utopian Piltover and the oppressed underground of Zaun, the story follows the origins of two iconic League champions-and the power that will tear them apart. 9/10
Created by: Christian Linke, Alex Yee
4. Sailor Moon
Can not mention queer animated shows without tipping my imaginary hat to this classic, and particularly to Sailor Uranus who makes the whole show worth watching over and over. Five seasons with Sailor Uranus and Neptune joining in the third, titled Sailor Moon S.
Imdb Synopsis: A group of schoolgirls discover they are incarnations of super-powered alien princesses, and use their abilities to defend the earth. 7.7/10
Created by: Naoko Takeuchi (manga)
3. Carole & Tuesday
This show set in a futuristic Martian society dominated by AI takes us on a musical journey of the heart. Only two seasons that will leave you wanting more. One point about LGBT+ representation however: I think the person in charge of subtitles has made a poor job at being consistent with the words they used and using the correct vocabulary.
Imdb Synopsis: Two girls, from different backgrounds but sharing a love for music, meet and change history with their united musical talent. 7.8/10
Created by: ShinichirÅ Watanabe
2. Dead End: Paranormal Park
You will get hooked on this show from the first episode and definitely stay for the ride (get it?) Funny, endearing and with a sense of nostalgia so specific to theme parks, Dead End gives us a sweet escape from reality and raises the question: who are the real demons out there?
Imdb Synopsis: Two teens and a talking pug team up to battle demons at a haunted theme park and maybe even save the world from a supernatural apocalypse. 6.9/10
Created by: Hamish Steele (books)
1. The Owl House
I know, I know, why did it take me so long to feature this show on a list? I first was introduced to the Owl House while the last few episodes of seasons 2 were coming out and therefore had little time to grieve the show’s cancellation after three seasons. I may be late to the game- but being introduced to the Owl House is a rite of passage that cannot be rushed. Stay the course for the first season as the pace gets faster in season two. Ideally, watch with people you like and let the magic take over: “us weirdos gotta stick together!”
Imdb Synopsis: Accidentally sent to the world of the Boiling Isles before a trip to summer camp, a teenage human named Luz longs to become a witch, with the rebellious Eda and pint-sized demon King at her aid. 8.4/10
Created by: Dana Terrace
Honorable mention to: Amphibia.
In watch list: Steven Universe.
For more animation recommendations, see 5 Animated TV Series for Magic, Love and Adventure.