Danny Phantom (2004 - Present): Review By Diaigma

"I'M NOT A GHOST! I mean, she's not my girlfriend . . ." - Danny

I enjoy a good superhero story as much as your average viewer. Programs with a supernatural element are equally likeable. What happens when you mix the two genres together? You get Danny Phantom, a Nicktoon with impressive writing and fast paced animation. The Ghostbusters are no longer the sole specter catchers in the universe, and this fun series packs an ecto-punch.

Danny Fenton's parents are ghost hunting fanatics, with a laboratory house that dwarfs all the other homes in the neighborhood. One day, they construct a portal that would allow them access into the Ghost Zone. When they plug it in, the machine fizzles and they give up. Out of curiosity, Danny suits up and takes a look, only to accidentally switch the device on from the inside. Zapped and unconscious, Danny wakes up and soon learns that his molecules have been infused with ectoplasm, allowing him to change into a ghost at will. Problem is, the portal allows ghosts to enter our world now. Danny will have to use his new found powers to keep our world ghost free.

The show may not feature the fanciest animation, but well-written scripts and colorful characters make up for the lack of visual prowess. His two best friends, a techno-loving geek and a Gothic chick, help Danny out whenever they can, as does his ghost-hunting-denial older sister. While episodic in presentation, the show manages to build with each episode, adding plot devices that provide useful later, gives growth to the characters, and makes good use of repeat antagonists (and the dad is an oblivious riot).

Danny Phantom is a fun little show, which I find more to be gained among the gas-gags in the Nicktoons lineup, because it doesn't speak down to its audience. It invites imagination, and that ghosts don't have to be scary. The kids certainly enjoy watching and laughing along with the action. The wit and tech can make adults feel smarter, too. If you have nothing better to do, rent or stream it, all four seasons. You'll find yourself addicted in no time.

(By Movieweb's Diaigma: resemblance to other reviews is coincidental)