The “Hilda” graphic novel series, created by Luke Pearson, debuted in 2010 and continued its enchanting journey through various volumes until its conclusion in 2018. Set in a whimsical universe inspired by Scandinavian folklore and urban fantasy, each volume of the series delves deeper into Hilda’s explorations, friendships, and growth. With its distinctive art style and engaging storytelling, the graphic novels have captivated readers of all ages, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase worldwide. Through Hilda’s journey, the series explores themes of bravery, empathy, and the wonders of the natural world, resonating with readers as they embark on her enchanting adventures.

Hilda

Set in the fictional town of Trolberg, “Hilda” follows the adventures of a brave young girl of the same name as she explores the magical wilderness surrounding her home. Inspired by Scandinavian folklore and infused with elements of fantasy and adventure, “Hilda” captures the spirit of exploration and discovery, inviting viewers into a world filled with mystical creatures and enchanting landscapes. With its captivating visuals and endearing characters, the series has garnered widespread acclaim for its imaginative storytelling.

HILDA SEASON 1 (coming soon)

HILDA SEASON 2 (coming soon)

HILDA SEASON 3

If nothing else, the series’ hour-plus-long finale is Worth it.

PARENTAL NOTES

Find out what happens when people stop being polite…and start getting real

• The stories don’t shy away from real-world consequences, making for a sometimes surprisingly intense story that might be too much for very young or sensitive children.
  • For example, there’s a particularly tense sequence in which a character is chased by a monster that wants to kill and eat both her and her daughter. In one scene, after narrowly surviving an attack, she cuts her hand, and we are shown the blood welling up.

Oh, Oh, Oh, It’s Magic

• The show is about magic: magic creatures, magic lands, and magic users, including witches (think more Harry Potter and less The Conjuring).
  • For those families that swear off this type of stuff, this is definitely not the series for you.

WOKE REPORT

The Fish Don’t Like To Be Caught

• It’s hinted that Hilda is at least a vegetarian who anthropomorphizes animals by assigning agency and feelings to them about their fate as food.

Girls, Girls, Girls

• It is a very gal-centric program, which doesn’t make it inherently woke. However, the few men in it are significantly more flawed than the women.
  • That said, the show doesn’t run them down. In fact, Hilda’s father, who does not live with them and spends years away, is defended by his ex-wife when it appears that he’s run off once again. She could have easily and understandably run him down at that moment but chose to explain that he loves Hilda but has trouble showing it.
    • Ultimately, the dad did not intentionally disappear this time, and he has a come to Jesus moment in which he starts to understand the importance of his role in his daughter’s life, and he decides to make a change.
      • As I said, the show doesn’t shy away from 3-dimensional character arcs.
  • Some might argue that Hilda’s mom is a bit of a girl boss. However, I would argue that she is merely competent.
    • Unlike other girl bosses, she’s humble and needs not put anyone down in order to aggrandize herself.
    • She’s not an infallible superwoman.

DEI

• There’s a very small amount of diversity for its own sake in the season, but the season is never about diversity, and its existence makes complete contextual sense.