Gormiti

Gormiti is a 3D animated series, a co-production between France's Canal J and Italy's Giochi Preziosi that aired on Netflix in 2018. This epic kid-friendly action series, profoundly rooted in the fantasy genre, is based on the popular Italian action figure line of the same name and features a gripping storytelling approach, layered characters, and mesmerizing visuals.

The series follows the themes of adventure and heroism by centering its story on the imaginary Gorm Island, a magical world inhabited by the Gormiti. The Gormiti are mythical creature tribes that have the power to transform into elemental giants, each of them specialized in an elemental affinity, such as air, forest, sea, or magma. The cartoon revisits these tribes and extends the universe by adding personality traits, shared histories, and personal motivations to each creature.

The story revolves around four youngsters: Riff, Ikor, Eron, and Trek, who, just like everyday kids, attend school and have fun during their free time. However, these boys have unique powers that make them anything but ordinary. Each of them, belonging to one of the four tribes, is a 'Lord'—the most potent beings in their respective tribes who are looked upon to protect their land from evil forces.

Riff, the Lord of the Air tribe, is usually the one to provide amusement with his lively and easy-going nature. Ikor, in contrast, is the more pragmatic and resourceful Lord of the Sea tribe. Eron is the Lord of the Forest Tribe, known for his reflective and strategic perspective, while Trek, the Lord of the Earth tribe, is the technical expert of the group.

Their routine life sees an abrupt change as the Island gets attacked by evil forces seeking to harness the immense power concealed within it. The four young heroes are summoned by Old Sage, the wise and expectant mindguard of Gorm Island, who reveals their destinities. They are the destined 'Lords of Nature', the chosen warriors who carry the responsibility of protecting the island and its dwellers from the menacing antagonists.

These dark forces are led by the ambitious and relentless Magor, an ancient evil eager to exert his power over the Gormiti and take over the magical island. This ruthless villain is accompanied by an army of loyal minions - the Lava Gormiti. They pose a significant threat to the peace on Gorm Island and are the primary antagonists the four heroes have to tackle.

Despite their innocent age, the four boys transform into brave warrior giants when duty calls, dashing into epic battles fending off the enemies, aided by their elemental powers. Each episode portrays the battles they fight, the difficulties they encounter, and their growth as characters, becoming more mature and responsible as they continue to protect their domains.

The animation and artistic design of the series are notable, creating an immersive environment through the vibrant and spectacular landscapes of Gorm Island. Gormiti represents each tribe and character with detailed design and distinctive coloring, allowing the audience to indulge in captivating visual storytelling. The animation also remarkably portrays the transition when the boys transform into their giant warrior forms, igniting the screen with dynamic action sequences that are both stirring and visually pleasing.

The series also does an admirable job of interweaving the characters' day to day lives with their adventurous alternate realities, thereby portraying a well-juggled narrative that keeps the viewers entertained.

Moreover, Gormiti goes beyond just action and adventure, depicting the bond between the four lords and how they deal with their newfound responsibilities and powers. Each of them, despite having their distinct traits, learns to work in sync, value friendship, and put their loyalty and commitment to test for the greater good.

Gormiti, with its blend of adventure, action, fantasy, and friendship, plays well into the hands of its target demographic, not forgetting to infuse the much-needed elements of fun and humor. Delving into a magical world where ordinary children turn into superheroes, it effectively becomes a tale of coming of age, responsibility, and friendship.

Whether you're a fan of the original action figure line or new to the universe of Gormiti, the Netflix 2018 series offers an engaging and thrilling experience while masterfully drawing you into its enchanting world, where heroes come in every size and shape.