I had never heard about Cartoon Network’s quirky, animated series, Almost Naked Animals, until I received an inquiry asking if I’d like to review the first season, which will be available on DVD starting September 25, 2012. Almost Naked Animals features an ensemble cast of underwear-clad animals, based on the quirky designs of Noah Z. Jones. The pack is led by Howie, the good-spirited but hospitality-challenged doggy manager of Banana Cabana, a beach-front hotel. Since I’m a fan of many quirky cartoons (Simpsons, Futurama, Family Guy, Archer and more), it looked like something that would appeal to my odd sense of humor.
My family was lucky enough to receive an awesome Almost Naked Animals “Banana Cabana Welcome Package” from Cartoon Network, which came with the Volume 1 DVD, an Almost Naked Animals tote bag, a notebook, party coasters, and a design-your-own “Do Not Disturb” sign. My son had so much fun pulling out item after item from the box—it was a genuine treat.
As for the show itself, I chose to view it first before watching with my son to make sure it was appropriate. The content wasn’t risque at all despite the word “Almost Naked” in the title. I found the zany adventures of all of the ANA characters, each with her or her own unique personality, amusing. Octo is a high strung front desk clerk, Bunny is a energetic activities director, Narwhal is the resident entertainer in the hotel lounge, Sloth is the a sluggish bellhop, Duck is a handy-animal with his head in the clouds, and Piggy is the temperamental chef. If you like quirky cartoons, you’ll enjoy Almost Naked Animals.
The show does a wonderful job of representing a wide-range of personality types, and making sometimes undesirable character traits look unique and charming! It was an entertaining watch for older children, and I will enjoy watching it with my four year old son in a few years. (The suggested audience is kids 6-11, but I suspect many adults enjoy the show.)
Disclosure: I received a sample to facilitate my review. All opinions are my own.
