'Phineas and Ferb' was so good in helping me through my tough periods during its run, which were many. Still do get a lot of pleasure out of watching re-runs of what was, when airing, one of the few shows on the Disney Channel regularly worth bothering with. Admittedly the later episodes are not quite on the same level as the more creative earlier seasons, but 'Phineas and Ferb' at its weakest still managed generally to be better than a lot of animated shows recently at their best.
Neither "Undercover Carl" or "Hip Hip Parade" are perfect episodes or among the best of 'Phineas and Ferb'. Both however are very well done, actually thought "Undercover Carl" was great and credit is due for trying to do something different and doing it very well in fact. There is a lot to like about "Hip Hip Parade" though, though it is not as funny or as creative and also tries to do a little too much (something that was not the case with "Undercover Carl").
There are plenty of great things that both have in common. The animation is bright and colourful, with such vibrant colours that literally pop out at you and beautifully detailed backgrounds. The music is in the style that is not usually my style of choice when listening to music, but it is very catchy and pleasant to listen to. The theme song is irresistible with a melody that sticks in the head for days without being an earworm and with very quotable lyrics.
Writing is very smart and manages to not be too juvenile for adults and not too complex for kids. It is particularly good in "Undercover Carl". Both stories are lively and nicely executed.
"Undercover Carl" fares better in this regard, with the most striking aspect being the bigger role of Carl in the role usually filled by Perry. It was interesting seeing that side to him and he has enough personality to do it justice.
"Hip Hip Parade" is very entertaining, with the floats and Buford making the episode. Let down though by being a little over-stuffed and Candace's story not being as interesting as it could have been and fairly under-explored.
Character writing and interaction are spot on as is the voice acting.
Overall, very well done. 8/10.
Neither "Undercover Carl" or "Hip Hip Parade" are perfect episodes or among the best of 'Phineas and Ferb'. Both however are very well done, actually thought "Undercover Carl" was great and credit is due for trying to do something different and doing it very well in fact. There is a lot to like about "Hip Hip Parade" though, though it is not as funny or as creative and also tries to do a little too much (something that was not the case with "Undercover Carl").
There are plenty of great things that both have in common. The animation is bright and colourful, with such vibrant colours that literally pop out at you and beautifully detailed backgrounds. The music is in the style that is not usually my style of choice when listening to music, but it is very catchy and pleasant to listen to. The theme song is irresistible with a melody that sticks in the head for days without being an earworm and with very quotable lyrics.
Writing is very smart and manages to not be too juvenile for adults and not too complex for kids. It is particularly good in "Undercover Carl". Both stories are lively and nicely executed.
"Undercover Carl" fares better in this regard, with the most striking aspect being the bigger role of Carl in the role usually filled by Perry. It was interesting seeing that side to him and he has enough personality to do it justice.
"Hip Hip Parade" is very entertaining, with the floats and Buford making the episode. Let down though by being a little over-stuffed and Candace's story not being as interesting as it could have been and fairly under-explored.
Character writing and interaction are spot on as is the voice acting.
Overall, very well done. 8/10.
