** Editor’s note: This review is based on four episodes.
As the evil Doctor Claw and his nephew Talon work to take over the world with weapons like the “stink missile” and mind control, Inspector Gadget, his niece Penny, and her dog, Brain, must try to stop them before it’s too late. Through a series of short episodes, viewers follow Inspector Gadget and his team’s adventures all over the world and even into space! The professor and Chief Quimby, the masterminds behind Inspector Gadget’s missions and incredible “gadgets,” provide support to the team as they save the world.
Inspector Gadget is a funny and interesting Netflix series that mimics common cartoons in sound-effects and themes. Throughout the episodes, viewers follow Inspector Gadget and his team as they fight against one singular villain and all of his evil plans. The creators of Inspector Gadget do an excellent job of showing the story from different perspectives. For example, while most episodes center around Inspector Gadget and Penny, some episodes focus more on the professor or Talon. Each episode is around 22 minutes long and consists of two short stories. These short episodes are great for younger kids as they will be able to keep their attention and interest.
The material, while appropriate for all ages, does include some things that parents should be aware of, such as unintelligent humor, mild insults, and cartoon fighting/explosions. Inspector Gadget himself is not the most intelligent man—while this is meant to be comical, it’s important to note that it is humor based on foolish thoughts and actions. Some episodes include large words that are not inappropriate but might be confusing to children. The “evil works” executed by Doctor Claw, however, are mild in nature and create a basis for clean, action-packed superhero plot lines.
As a Netflix series, Inspector Gadget is well-made. The audio and the graphics are cohesive, and the picture is clear. The plot of Inspector Gadget is innovative and depicts a modern, hilarious take on the classic superhero/villain storyline.
Inspector Gadget is Dove-approved for All Ages.
The Dove Take:
Inspector Gadget is a funny children’s cartoon that portrays the common theme of good guys versus bad guys.
