“Bluey” is an Australian animated series, created by Joe Brumm, that stands out as a shining gem that captivates the hearts of both kids and adults. In the space of each episode’s seven minutes, it offers endearing characters, clever storytelling, and valuable life lessons. With its unique blend of humour, emotion, and relatability, “Bluey” has cemented itself as a must-watch for families seeking quality entertainment.
Family
Set in the suburbs of Brisbane, Australia, “Bluey” follows the adventures of a lovable Blue Heeler pup named Bluey and her family: Dad (Bandit), Mum (Chilli), and younger sister, Bingo. What makes “Bluey” so special is its ability to authentically depict everyday situations and turn them into delightful adventures that resonate with both children and adults. Whether it’s a trip to the supermarket (“Kids“), a game of hide-and-seek (“Hide and Seek“), or a family camping trip (“Camping“), “Bluey” infuses these mundane activities with creativity and imagination.
One of the most remarkable aspects of “Bluey” is the strong emphasis on family. Bandit and Chilli, Bluey’s parents, serve as role models for positive parenting. They are the parents we all want to be and to have, encouraging their daughters to be independent thinkers, problem solvers, and imaginative playmates. They participate in their children’s games, even when their hearts are not really in it1, something very relatable to parents. The genuine affection and warmth that Bandit and Chilli have for their children is inspirational.
Humour
The humour in “Bluey” is a standout feature. It’s witty, clever, and often delivered in a way that appeals to both children and adults. The show’s writers have a talent for crafting jokes and scenarios that will have parents chuckling alongside their children, sometimes hiding more adult references in background events or conversations (“Perfect“, a Father’s Day2 episode, famously reveals that Bandit is considering a vasectomy, altered in the US Disney version). This makes “Bluey” an excellent choice for family bonding, as it creates opportunities for parents and kids to share laughter and enjoy quality time together.
Imagination
“Bluey” also excels in its ability to depict the magic of childhood and the power of imagination. In every episode, the ordinary becomes extraordinary as Bluey and Bingo embark on imaginative journeys that spark creativity and wonder. Whether they’re exploring a magical kingdom under the dining table or venturing into the Australian wilderness in their backyard, “Bluey” encourages children to embrace their imagination and explore the world around them.
Music
The music in “Bluey” deserves special mention. The score, composed by Joff Bush, beautifully complements the show’s emotional depth. From the whimsical tunes that accompany the puppies’ adventures to the poignant melodies that underscore heartfelt moments, the music enhances the overall viewing experience and leaves a lasting impression. The score is almost another character, never more so than in “Sleepytime“, which uses Gustav Holst’s “Jupiter” to beautiful effect. This episode was rated 10/10 on IMDB until August 2022, and still rates highly on “Best TV episodes of all time”.
Issues
“Bluey” excels in its ability to subtly tackle adult issues in a way that is accessible for children and still feel relatable to adults. The show doesn’t shy away from addressing topics that parents and caregivers face daily. In “Onesies“, Chilli’s sister Brandi visits and through play and discussion we discover Brandi’s infertility. In the flashback episode “Baby Race“, Chilli deals with her feelings of inadequecy due to Bluey progressing at a different rate to the other toddlers in her mother’s group. By presenting these complex themes in a child-friendly manner, “Bluey” fosters understanding and opens up opportunities for meaningful discussions between parents and their little ones, making it an invaluable resource for family bonding and growth.
“Bluey” is an extraordinary children’s show that has captured the hearts of families around the world. Its combination of relatable storytelling, top-notch animation, memorable characters, and valuable life lessons make it a standout series in the world of children’s television. Whether you’re a parent looking for a show that both you and your children can enjoy or a child seeking exciting adventures and life lessons, “Bluey” is a delightful choice that will leave a lasting impression of joy, laughter, and love. It’s a show that truly exemplifies the magic of childhood and the beauty of family bonds, making it a must-watch for all ages.
- In “Whale Watching“, Chilli and Bandit spend the episode flaked out “tired” following a late night New Year’s Eve party. Parents watching know. ↩︎
- “Perfect” is a seasonal episode, available for streaming only around the appropriate time of year. ↩︎