If there’s one thing I’ve learned from diving into the realms of animated sci-fi, it’s that the genre can soar when it blends wonder with heart. WondLa does just that. From the moment I hit play, I was swept into a world that felt as expansive as Star Wars, yet as intimate as a bedtime story. The sheer ambition of this Apple TV+ series is something I couldn’t wait to talk about with you.
The series, adapted from Tony DiTerlizzi’s beloved WondLa trilogy, delivers an adventure that feels both fresh and nostalgic, the sort of tale that could captivate a child and intrigue their parents all at once. But how does it truly stack up across the pond? Trust me, we’ll get there.
The Journey of Eva – A Coming-of-Age Story Like No Other
At its core, WondLa follows Eva (voiced with heartfelt nuance by Jeanine Mason), a spirited teenager raised underground by Muthr, her robotic caretaker. When her sanctuary is destroyed, Eva is thrust into a strange, post-apocalyptic Earth teeming with alien life. Here, she embarks on a quest to find others like herself — other humans.
What struck me most was how WondLa handles that classic theme of belonging. It’s less about surviving alien creatures and more about finding where you fit in a world that seems utterly foreign. There’s a gentle, philosophical thread that winds its way through the series, reminding me of The Little Prince, but with more laser beams.
Bobs Gannaway's Vision – Crafting Sci-Fi with a Painter’s Touch
Showrunner Bobs Gannaway (Elena of Avalor, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse) does something remarkable here: he balances childlike curiosity with mature storytelling. The visuals, overseen by a roster of talented directors including Andrew L. Schmidt and Lawrence Gong, feel lush and layered. I caught myself pausing scenes just to soak in the otherworldly landscapes and intricate alien designs.
It’s not just the spectacle, though. The emotional beats — those moments of connection between Eva, the gruff Rovender Kitt, and the loveable, elephant-sized Otto — are what linger. Gannaway ensures this isn’t just an action-packed quest; it’s a story about chosen families and identity.
Stellar Performances that Bring Heart to the High-Tech
The voice cast? Absolutely stellar. Teri Hatcher as Muthr delivers warmth and wit, while Brad Garrett’s Otto steals scenes with that lovable, lumbering charm. Alan Tudyk (no stranger to sci-fi) brings gravitas to Cadmus Pryde, making him more than a cookie-cutter antagonist.
But the standout? Jeanine Mason as Eva. There’s a sincerity in her performance, a blend of vulnerability and courage that makes Eva feel real. You root for her, not just because she’s the protagonist, but because she embodies that universal yearning for connection.
Visuals and Sound – A Feast for the Senses
The animation, produced by ICON Creative Studio, is a marvel. It’s a rich tapestry of colours, blending sleek sci-fi tech with organic alien landscapes. Composer Joy Ngiaw's score further elevates the experience, swelling at just the right moments without overwhelming.
I was particularly impressed by how the animation honours the original book’s illustrations while adding its own flair. It feels cinematic, worthy of late-night family binges or Sunday afternoon marathons.
Audience Reactions: USA vs. UK
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. In the US, WondLa has been embraced as a solid family-friendly adventure, praised for its strong female lead and visual richness. The IMDb rating stands at a respectable 7.4/10, reflecting its broad appeal.
In the UK, however, the reception feels a touch more measured. British audiences, often favouring grittier sci-fi like Doctor Who or His Dark Materials, have noted WondLa's gentler tone. But once engaged, they’ve praised its world-building and philosophical undercurrents. It’s less about thrills and more about thoughtful storytelling — something British viewers appreciate, even if it’s a slower burn.
Final Thoughts – Why WondLa Deserves a Spot on Your Watchlist
So, would I recommend WondLa? Absolutely. It’s a beautifully crafted series that balances spectacle with soul. While it might not pack the frenetic punch of some blockbuster animations, its thoughtful pace and emotional resonance make it a standout.
If you’re after a series that sparks conversation, that makes you wonder about identity, belonging, and what it means to be human, WondLa delivers.
