Kelcy Conroy
Staff Writer
Fall is in the air. The leaves are falling and the crisp autumn chill is setting in the air. You may hear some saying that it’s time to rewatch “Over The Garden Wall,” but what is this fall classic, and how does it still stand with the test of time?
“Over The Garden Wall” is an animated television miniseries created by Patrick McHale, who is known for his work on “Adventure Time” and “The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack.” Ten episodes were broadcast from November 3rd to November 7th, 2014.
It follows Wirt and Gregory, half brothers who become lost in the strangely beautiful woods of the Unknown. Aided by the help of a mysterious Woodsman and a talking bluebird named Beatrice, the boys work to find their way home and avoid a looming beast. Greg frees Beatrice from a bush and in return, she agrees to take them to see Adelaide of the Pasture, a woman who will help them get home. However, on the way to Adelaide’s, our group has numerous adventures that lead them to meeting the unique denizens of the Unknown. Throughout the series, secrets are revealed about the characters that we meet that we may not have suspected at first. Some things in this strange world may not be as they seem.
Both of our protagonists know where they fit in the ecosystem of the Unknown; they are most definitely outliers. Greg is always excited about new discoveries and will talk to anyone or anything, as whimsical children tend to do. I find Greg and Wirt to be foils of each other, both bringing out their brother’s good and bad traits. Wirt on the other hand is nervous and annoyed, much like a typical teenager. Greg and Wirt’s journey into the Unknown brings them together in surprising and clever ways as they learn about themselves and the world around them.
Another fond fragment of this show is the soundtrack. Music in media is one of the things that I enjoy hearing and observing, and this show’s soundtrack is no exception. The variety includes elements of jazz, folk, americana, rock and indie combined to create a profound experience. Positive upbeat songs like “Potatoes and Molasses” and spookier tracks like “The Highwayman” are some of the examples of how this soundtrack brings the playful and eerie elements of the series together.
Despite the show’s brevity, the unique characters, scenery and soundtrack blended together for a virtuous musical experience. “Over The Garden Wall” has stood the test of time since its 2014 release and remains a must watch for anyone in an autumnal mood. For those who want to dive into the fall spirit full-speed, “Over The Garden Wall” can be streamed on Hulu.