As a content creator for pets.edu.vn and a self-proclaimed pet enthusiast, I’ve explored countless animal-related shows. But there’s one animated series that sticks out in my memory for its peculiar charm: “Pet Alien.” From around 2006 or 2007, this show became a personal favorite, sparking a craving for more episodes that, back then, cable TV didn’t always readily satisfy. While “Pet Alien” is more accessible now on streaming services, my fondness for it remains rooted in some unconventional reasons.
One aspect that always intrigued me was the show’s ambitious attempt at squash and stretch CGI animation. In 2005, with limited budgets and evolving technology, achieving polished effects was a challenge. “Pet Alien,” developed under these constraints, resulted in character models and textures that might appear dated and even a bit rough around the edges to modern viewers. However, I find myself admiring this aesthetic. There’s a certain charm in its lower-poly models and texture quality, a testament to the animation style of that era. Despite the technical limitations, “Pet Alien” occasionally showcased surprisingly fluid and expressive movements, adding to its unique visual appeal. As a child, this aesthetic was undeniably captivating. Interestingly, while the alien characters possess a quirky appeal, the human designs, in my opinion, are less visually engaging.
When it comes to characters, “Pet Alien” is a mixed bag. Many of them, arguably around 70%, fall into one-dimensional tropes, including the protagonist, Tommy Cadle. However, there’s a shining exception: Dinko. This green alien injects much-needed personality and dynamism into the show. Dinko stands out as the most multi-faceted character, embodying a sense of friendship that’s genuinely endearing. In a show populated with often simplistic characters, Dinko’s likability is surprising and makes him a clear favorite. It’s almost as if the animators themselves poured extra life into him, making his animations feel more vibrant compared to the rest of the cast. While some might point out a resemblance to Yoshi from the Mario series, perhaps with a touch of Scrat from Ice Age, this little green character undeniably holds a special place. Speaking personally, a fondness for green characters makes Dinko an instant favorite.
The storyline and humor of “Pet Alien,” however, are less consistent. The premise itself is quite conventional, echoing themes explored more effectively in earlier shows, such as the French cartoon “Space Goofs.” For viewers seeking innovative plots and humor, “Space Goofs” or similar series might be a stronger recommendation. The humor in “Pet Alien” is undeniably hit-or-miss, leaning more towards the latter. While there are occasional witty lines and some animations can elicit unintentional laughs, the comedic aspect is generally one of the show’s weaker points. The narrative often feels predictable and formulaic. Yet, perhaps it’s the lens of nostalgia that softens these criticisms, preventing me from being overly critical.
Overall, despite its narrative shortcomings, “Pet Alien” deserves recognition as a distinctive example of 3D animation from its time. It’s unlikely to resonate with everyone, and opinions on the show vary widely. However, I believe “Pet Alien” possesses enough redeeming qualities, particularly its unique animation style and the character of Dinko, to warrant a mild recommendation. If you’re curious about animated “pet” shows with a nostalgic, quirky twist, “Pet Alien” might be worth exploring.
