“Victor and Valentino” is a supernatural adventure comedy about two half-brothers who spend a summer with their grandma in Monte Macabre, a small, mysterious town where the myths and legends of Mesoamerican folklore come to life.
I love the concept by creator/co-star Diego Molano and bringing Mexican-American narratives into the mainstream. I don’t love the non-stop movement and endless cuts. I realize hyper-animated shows are the norm these days but I think it’s bad for attention-spans and learning nuance. Lately, before bed, I’ve been re-watching “The Batman Animated Series” which originally aired in the 1990s and there’s a glaring superiority in its pacing and illustration.
Aside from the hollow animation, “Victor and Valentino” can occasionally be entertaining. They’re half-brothers, mainly exploring myths and legends pulled from Mesoamerican folklore while living with their grandmother. While their grandmother remains mostly unaware, the boys explore Monte Macabre, a town filled with phantoms and other mythical creatures. Their journeys are obviously childish but there are some good moral lessons mixed in with tidbits of history and fantasy. I appreciate the concept but maybe show your kid an old cartoon, they might like it!
Now available on DVD
