Curious George Monkey Collection Vol. 1 + Curious George Robot Monkey and More Great Gadgets (Universal DVD)

 

Picture: B-     Sound: B-     Extras: C     Main Programs: C

 

 

Ahhh Curious George…what is that wild and crazy monkey up to this time?  Well, we’ve already covered several titles already about that mischievous ape, you can read about them here.  This time around we get a 32-episode set released on four discs entitled The Monkey Collection Vol. 1, which consists of the shows PBS Kids TV series that has also been Emmy nominated.  The shows are broken down into four installments entitled: Zoo Night and Other Animal Stories, Rocket Ride and Other Adventures, Takes a Job and More Monkey Business, and Plays in the Snow and Other Awesome Activities. 

 

It’s apparent that this is a show that will only entertain very young minds, for those who grew up on the illustrated version of the character in a book; this will only make you wonder why some things can’t be left alone.  The formula wears entirely too thin, but is repetitive enough for kids to gain a sense of what is to be expected and is entertaining enough to amuse their senses, even if it’s only for a short time. 

 

Also added to this review is the single disc titles George Robot Monkey and More Great Gadgets, which continues on in the same tradition, but is left out of the box set, which is packaged in a nifty monkey box with handle for easy transport to any minivan equipped with a DVD player, which will make mom or dads life easier for sure! 

 

All episodes are presented in their full-frame TV aspect ratio of 1.33 X a and look good for average animation throughout, the 2.0 Dolby Digital soundtracks are fun, lively, and engaging for kids, but won’t sonically challenge any home theater rooms any time soon either. 

 

Overall a set that will please kids and probably drive parents crazy, crazy as a monkey that is!

 

 

-   Nate Goss