Stone by day and warriors by night, they are Gargoyles. Debuting in the 90s, Gargoyles was a cartoon by Disney Television Animation in Glendale, California. The series followed a group of titular creatures sworn to protect a human city. It ran for three seasons, but its fans have never forgotten it. This year marks the show’s 30th anniversary, and in celebration come new comics.
The Defenders of the Night
Created by Greg Weisman, Gargoyles turned the concept of statues protecting buildings into a story. The show began in a castle in medieval Scotland where a gargoyle clan resides. Goliath, voiced by Keith David, and his warriors defend their home from invaders every night. However, Vikings attack one day and slay the gargoyles in their sleep. A handful of survivors, including Goliath, remain and then attempt to carry out their revenge. Afterward, they are cursed to be stone until awakening in 20th-century Manhattan.
The gargoyles take an oath to protect the borough from the dangers within. This decision has led to them confronting criminals like the crime lord Tony Dracon. Of course, not all their foes are simple crooks looking to expand their territory. The gargoyles often clash with enemies like multi-billionaire David Xanatos and Demona, Goliath’s former mate. They’ve even butted heads with beings from mythology and their evil clones. Luckily, Elisa Maza, a detective with the N.Y.P.D., is their closest ally and protector.
A Show Ahead of Its Time
Gargoyles often felt like a show for older audiences despite it being intended for young teens. The series possessed complex story arcs that explored the motivations of certain characters. Some villains went through development and left their antagonistic ways behind. Despite being a 90s Disney cartoon, Gargoyles also had a somber tone. Many episodes dealt with serious issues like gun safety and grieving for a loved one. Most of Season Three revolved around racism as the gargoyles fought a KKK-inspired organization.
Of course, Gargoyles was not all gloom and despair throughout its run. Some lighthearted aspects and moments often broke the dark tone. A notable element is the Beauty-and-the-Beast romance between Goliath and Elisa. Another was Goliath finally accepting the young gargoyle Angela as his daughter. There were also comedic bits within Gargoyles that made audiences chuckle or bust a gut. The most famous involved Goliath eating a jalapeno and being surprised by the spiciness.
Gargoyles Celebrates in Style
To celebrate the show’s 30th anniversary, Disney will release special items. The first is a new comic from Dynamite Comics entitled Gargoyles Winter Special. Also called Bronx’s Silent Night, the book follows the team’s pet enjoying a snow-covered Manhattan.
The second celebration gift is a Little Golden Book based on the series. Not much is known about it except it will be for all ages. Lastly, Mondo Funko will release a line of figures based on characters from Gargoyles. There are currently no details about who will be a figure. The only plausible thing is it will be primary characters like Goliath.
Final Thoughts
Gargoyles is an animated masterpiece, blending dark and light perfectly. The characters are outstanding, the stories are enticing, and the voice acting is top-tier. Each episode feels like a product of passion and hard work. Even if the show presents serious themes, people of all ages can enjoy it. The cartoon is now available for viewing on Disney+ for its 30th anniversary. There is no better way to celebrate the event than to revisit the epic saga. Especially if the rewatch of Disney’s dark masterpiece lasts until sunrise.
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