When news first emerged about Dinosaur Train, frankly, it seemed a bit out there. The concept felt random, and initial expectations weren’t sky-high for another children’s show. However, experiencing the show firsthand reveals a surprisingly well-crafted and engaging program, far exceeding those initial doubts. While it may not reach the echelon of a timeless classic, Dinosaur Train carves out its own enjoyable niche in children’s television.
One of the most refreshing aspects of Dinosaur Train is its departure from predictable formulas often found in similar educational shows like Sid the Science Kid or other Henson creations. Initial assumptions of a repetitive structure were quickly dispelled as each episode ventured in unexpected and delightful directions. This willingness to innovate keeps the viewing experience fresh and prevents the show from becoming monotonous, a common pitfall in children’s programming.
The narrative arc surrounding Buddy’s self-discovery is another strong element. Unusually, the show doesn’t prolong the mystery of Buddy’s species until a late-season reveal. Instead, his early understanding of being a Tyrannosaurus Rex among Pteranodons fuels his curiosity and becomes a catalyst for exploring the vast world of dinosaurs. This approach deepens the educational aspect, driving Buddy’s (and the audience’s) desire to learn about diverse dinosaur species and their characteristics.
Adding to the show’s appeal are the live-action segments featuring a Paleontologist. This element brings a real-world connection to the prehistoric world, and the Paleontologist’s engaging screen presence enhances the educational value. While there were moments where a touch more humor could have been injected into these segments, the current approach effectively delivers factual information in an accessible way, demonstrated through playful elements like “looking with horns” and highlighting “points of fact.”
In conclusion, Dinosaur Train is a pleasant surprise. While its premise might have initially seemed unconventional, the execution is genuinely enjoyable and educationally enriching. It’s debatable whether the show has the capacity for an exceptionally long run, given the finite nature of dinosaur species and potential storylines within a 40-episode framework. And while personal preference might still lean towards the structure of Sid the Science Kid, Dinosaur Train stands out as a show that’s genuinely fun to watch, moving beyond mere obligatory viewing into genuinely engaging entertainment for young audiences interested in dinosaurs and, of course, the catchy Dinosaur Train Theme Song that sets the stage for each prehistoric adventure.
