I've heard many a person say something along the lines of "There aren't any good cartoons on TV anymore." To which I say, HOGWASH. Anyone who thinks that has not been looking. To help rectify this case of ignorance, I've compiled a list below to explore briefly some of the best cartoons I know. This is not a comprehensive list, nor are all of the shows even still running, but it at the very least can be a starting point to pique one's interest.
Best Musical Cartoons
Over the Garden Wall (2014)
Story about two boys lost in a strange wood trying to get home.
-Folk and jazz songs
-Creepy undertones
-The world isn't as scary as it looks
Steven Universe (2013-present)
Story about a boy who saves the world with a rebel group of gem aliens.
-Crooner and pop songs
-Diversity and self-acceptance
-What is healthy and unhealthy in relationships
Phineas and Ferb (2007-2015)
Story about two boys who have crazy summer projects.
-Absurdist and showstopper songs
-Ambitious creativity
-Living life in the moment to the fullest
Animaniacs (1993-1998)
Story about three siblings who wreak havoc on annoying people.
-Narrative and educational songs
-Zaniness without regard for continuity
-Makes fun of ham-fisted moral lessons
Best Dramatic Cartoons
Voltron: Legendary Defender (2016-present)
Story about five kids who pilot lion robots to fight against a galactic empire.
-Mecha space battles
-War as a process instead of an event
-Inspiring others to do what is right
The Legend of Korra (2014-2016)
Story about chosen one girl stopping extremists from destroying the world.
-Applied elemental magic
-Positive and negative aspects of political philosophies
-Working through trauma
Young Justice (2010-2013, returning 2018)
Story about sidekicks doing the work that superheroes can't.
-Covert ops all over the world
-Character baggage and its consequences
-Distillation of decades of DC Comics continuity
Gargoyles (1994-1996)
Story about gargoyles sleeping for a millenium to awaken in New York City.
-Protecting one's home
-Navigating an unwelcoming world
-Seamless integration of global myths, Shakespeare, and modern sci-fi
Best Comedic Cartoons
Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir (2015-present)
Story about two superheroes who don't realize they're in love with each other.
-The Love Square, aka four ships for the price of one
-Over-the-top emotions are everywhere
-Parental neglect and loneliness
Star Vs. The Forces of Evil (2015-present)
Story about girl who can travel between dimensions and fight monsters.
-Flaming rainbow aesthetic
-Influences of magical girl anime
-Recognizing the negative aspects of colonialism
Gravity Falls (2012-2016)
Story about twins spending the summer finding supernatural creatures.
-All sorts of weirdness
-Hidden puzzles everywhere
-Paranoia and trust
Avatar: The Last Airbender (2003-2008)
Story about chosen one boy stopping extremist from destroying the world.
-Kids indulging in being kids
-Finding another way to succeed
-Emerging stronger through adversity
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