Jim Henson's colourful, musical, good-time loving Fraggles are back in Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock. For kids who grew up in the 1980s, I'd only have to sing the words ‘Dance your cares away…' and they'd be able to recite the full ‘Fraggle Rock Song'.
But does this reboot offer anything new to keep the young ones entertained, or is it nothing more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane?
The show follows the adventures of Fraggles, Doozers and Gorgs. All these creatures live in and around the same cave system.
The Fraggles are always up for a good time, and they share their lives with the Doozers (who build things). Doozers construct their habitats from an edible candy-like material (made from radishes) that Fraggles love.
The Gorgs regard Fraggles as pests because they steal radishes from the Gorgs' garden. The Fraggles don't see it as stealing, leading to comical interactions between the groups.
FRAGGLE ROCK REBOOT
It's great to see that the reboot sticks to the same tried and tested formula as the original, with plenty of funny moments, catchy songs and sweet messages that kids will love.
Fraggle Rock is as hilarious and entertaining to watch now as it was in the 1980s. The new season continues the franchise's tradition of having the Fraggles go on incredible adventures, interact with Doozers and Gorgs, and learn lessons about friendship.
The only downside is that it might be a little too familiar for those who grew up with it, as with most reboots. There's not much in the way of new content or surprises here. But for kids who are just being introduced to the world of Fraggles, it's sure to be a hit.
If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly show that will have you singing along in no time, look no further than Fraggle Rock: Back To The Rock. And don't forget to bring your dancing shoes!
WHO ARE THE FRAGGLES?
Fraggle Rock was devised by Jim Henson and his company, Henson Associates. The show was produced from 1983 to 1987, and it aired on HBO in the United States.
The ‘Fraggles' were created as an alternative to Sesame Street, which Henson felt was too preachy.
Fraggles are tiny humanlike creatures, most often about 22 inches tall (56 cm), with fur tufted tails and various hues. Fraggles spend most of their time playing, exploring, and having a good time (they have a thirty-minute work week!).
While the show is geared towards children, it contains enough humour and subtext to entertain adults.
FRAGGLE ROCK STREAM? WHERE TO WATCH IT
Fraggle Rock: Back To The Rock can be streamed on Apple TV, a relatively new streaming service that is growing in popularity.
Apple TV's most significant feature is its low price compared to other services available on the market.
Apple seems to have targeted the gap between Disney+ and Netflix, with a mix of content aimed at younger audiences such as Fraggle Rock, Puppy Place and Snoopy. While not neglecting the parents who ultimately pay for the subscription.
The Morning Show and comedy series such as Ted Lasso are just a couple of the fantastic programs that adults might enjoy after putting their children to bed.
Not forgetting to mention Academy Award-nominated films CODA and exclusive features from Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington.
So if you're looking for a family-friendly streaming service with a decent selection of content, Apple TV is worth considering. Sure, it might not have the depth of Netflix or Hulu, but it's hard to fault the quality.
FRAGGLE ROCK CHARACTERS
The Fraggles are a lovable and unique bunch, each with their own personality quirks. There's Gobo: who is reasonable and level-headed. Mokey: a hippie who is usually quiet and meditative, the fun-loving Red, the timid Wembley and Boober who often displays hypochondriac tendencies.
These characters bring something unique to the show and help make the Fraggles such a fun and entertaining bunch to watch.
WHAT'S THE DOGS NAME IN FRAGGLE ROCK?
The dog in Fraggle Rock is called Sprocket, and he is a lovable character. He tries to convince his owner of the Fraggle's existence, but he is unsuccessful.
Nevertheless, he has gone into Fraggle Rock on a few occasions and encountered the Fraggles, Doozers, and Gorgs.
NEAR WHAT SEA WAS FRAGGLE ROCK FILMED?
Did you know that the original Fraggle Rock was filmed in Cornwall (England)? The lovely little lighthouse that you see at the program's start is, in fact, St. Anthony's Lighthouse, which stands high on the cliffs at Cornwall's beautiful Roseland Peninsula and looks out to sea.
If you ever have the chance, stop by – it's well worth a visit! If you can't make it to Cornwall, do yourself a favour and try out the AppleTV streaming service; you'll be able to “Dance your cares away. Worries for another day. Let the music play. Down at Fraggle Rock”.
So what did you think of the Fraggle Rock: Back To The Rock? Leave a comment below and let us know!