Lukas is a great storyteller. As a fish, we hear that he saw Jesus. And fish (and seahorses and other aquatic friends) love to hear his stories, especially because the stories are so applicable to what the fishy folks are facing. They all have dilemmas and challenges, and the stories of individuals and situations of faith, including about Catholic Saints, are more than just to entertain them, they are present as lessons to learn from.
In the episode “Saint Anthony of Padua,” a character struggles with whether she should tell the truth, even if the truth may make someone else unhappy. There is the story of Saint Anthony of Padua who would not compromise what was important: truth. In the story, we hear of his telling the truth, even when others would not believe it.
In “Padre Pio,” a talent show act hits a speed bump when Paul, the keyboard-accompanying Octopus, is injured. What will he do? The story of an incredible event regarding “Padre Pio” is told, and how, during war, he was seen in two locations at one time. It emphasizes keeping one’s soul clean, and offering suffering.
“The True Meaning of Christmas” is an episode which emphasizes that it is not about the material gifts that we receive that defines Christmas. The perspective of the nativity is presented with an emphasis on Mary’s perspective, and she even, in a dream, appears to the characters.
These episodes present Lukas Storyteller as upbeat and encouraging, with strongly Catholic perspective and ideas, including regarding Mary. The episodes are entertaining, with a nice juxtaposition of animation styles between Lukas (and the others in the ocean), and the animation of the stories he tells. It is accessible to little kids, with a splash of aquarium colors and kind characters, yet is able to present some significant ideas for discussion, such as offering challenges to God. It’s a unique show that is likely to find its audience, and it would not be the least bit fishy to expect more Lukas Storyteller in time to come. These episodes of Lukas Storyteller are Dove-Approved for All Ages.
The Dove Take:
Aquatic animated show shares lessons with strong Catholic perspective.
