Gravity Falls

A fantastic, clever, highly entertaining show that's one part Twin Peaks, one part X-Files, and two parts peak The Simpsons. It still feels weird that something this good came from the Disney Channel.

We can talk until we're blue in the face about the beautiful animation, the excellent characters, the concept that's satisfyingly explored across two seasons, but it's the writing that keeps me coming back to this masterpiece. Not only is this evidence of hilarious comedy possible on a show marketed for children, but it's evidence of a deliberate appreciation of comedy. This show takes purposeful steps to ensure its jokes land rather than trying to pelt viewers with overwhelming wackiness.

Not a single bad episode, remains consistent in quality, and then becomes an entirely different beast for the better when it decides to up the ante. It's surprisingly dark and pushes what can be shown on Disney television. The finale is what cements this as a classic

Immediately fun and charming, and then the character development gets you, and then the myth-arc jumps out and makes it amazing. Plus, it does "Twin Peaks-esque weird little town full of colorful characters and supernatural secrets" better than any other example I can think of. Also, Mabel is the best and I love her, even if I can't explain why she's always wearing sweaters during the summer.

I don't have any particular fondness for animation (despite The Simpsons being my favorite show) so it took me a while to take the plunge on this, but thank God I did, because it's the only series on the air that is at once so profoundly beautiful, hilarious, artful and moving. The relationship between Dipper and Mabel is perfect precisely because it's so believable, and Dipper is the perfect avatar via which to explore the feelings and experiences we all shared during our childhoods.

Twin Peaks meets X-Files for kids!

While sometimes an overarching story doesn't really exist in the first season, Gravity Falls still knows how to punch way above its channel's target demographic and be a memorable show. The second season brings a larger plot that makes the show feel more consistent and provides a lot more stakes.

Frequently hilarious, sometimes touching, and it all builds up to an excellent finale.

PEAK :D

Mystery, humor, and genuinely clever storytelling make this one of Disney's strongest animated series. Dipper and Mabel have a great sibling dynamic, while the strange characters and supernatural mysteries give the show an identity of its own. The ongoing story gradually becomes more ambitious, leading to some surprisingly emotional and memorable moments. As most shows for children can do, this one has its fair share of dumb jokes and young humor, but that can be easily overlooked.