I've been a fan of the animated series "Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego?" ever since it first came out in 1994, and despite the fact that it's now on only on reruns, I still like to watch what I consider is one of the best animated series I've ever seen.
Why do I like the series so much? Well, my initial attraction was the fact that it taught geography lessons in a very fun context, and it's still an attraction to me today. Also, it is really well-drawn, with neat scenes of various locations around the world. However, my favorite thing about the series is not the mixture of humor and education, or the scenery, but the story and the characters.
In the show, Carmen Sandiego is the world's greatest thief. She is chased around the world by Acme sister/brother detectives Ivy and Zack, and the Chief, a holographic figure, plus the occasional assistance of fellow Acme detectives. Also helping is a Player in front of a computer screen. Carmen is assisted in her capers by various henchmen, some named, others unknown. Carmen always steals a few items, but the items are recovered, while Carmen escapes.
I like Ivy, Zack, and the Chief for various reasons (the Chief's so funny; Zack is sometimes funny, but also very intelligent, as his knowledge of languages and computers indicates, and Ivy is really courageous and skilled in a fight), but interestingly enough, my favorite character is Carmen herself. She's a thief, but she never harms anyone, and doesn't steal for the money, but primarily for the challenge of a certain caper and for the artistic value of an object. That makes her a fascinating mixture of good and bad. She's very mature, and has many great quotes which get you thinking. One time she tells the Player that a philosopher once said that competition can make you stronger. When she's asked which philosopher said that, Carmen says, "Me!" I love that line! Also, she sure has style, what with her red coat and fedora cocked at just the right angle! And she has a great deal of knowledge of many subjects. I usually don't admire criminals, but Carmen's an exception. And she's the main reason why I love the series now and think it one of the best animated series out there.
Belle Book
