I’m taking a look this week at some horror-related animated shows. You certainly won’t see these on Saturday morning, because they’re not for (human) kids!

First off is a series from FEARnet called Mari-Kari that stars the voice talent of the lovely Brenda Walsh Shannen Doherty. Mari and Kari are identical 7 year old twins that are never apart even though Kari is dead! Together they are inseperable and get into all sorts of trouble that usually results in a townie’s death (thanks to Kari). However, I suppose anyone living in a town that has an elementary school named after the infamous Gilles de Rais is asking for trouble. Won’t these people learn not to mess with poor, sweet Mari (thereby invoking Kari’s wrath)? Visit FEARnet.com every Thursday in June and catch two new episodes.

Another twisted toon that you might have heard about or seen Comedy Central’s cartoon Ugly Americans. It’s about a NYC social worker that follows Mark Lilly, social worker at the Department of Integration, as he helps new citizens both human and “other” adapt to hectic life in the Big Apple. Filled with vampires, werewolves, and pretty much any other creature you could imagine. However I want to draw attention to this cartoon’s precursor from the same creators called 5-on.

This web series (started in 2008) is hosted by Alan Whiter as he interviews a variety of monsters and supernatural creatures about thier opinions on hot topics like the environment, celebrities, immigration, and politics.
5-on is featured on atom.com, and watch Season One highlights of Ugly Americans on Comedy Central.com

Finally, I want to recall Disney’s announcement last September about teaming up with the talented Guillermo del Toro to create a new division focused on creating animated films full of chills and thrills for audiences of all ages called “Double Dare You“. Seems that everyone is trying to bank on the findings of a recent study from the Dove Foundation that family oriented films (especially G rated) gross 11 times more profitable than their R rated counterparts. Let’s hope it’s not unlike the amazing work shown in “Night on Bald Mountain” (Fantasia). That sequence is so incredibly amazing and (I think) suitable for the whole family.

Regardless of your preconceptions, the first project in development for the new label is called “Trollhunters,” an original del Toro story which he will produce. I’m certain that related video games, theme park rides, etc. will be forthcoming. (Have you seen the new Harry Potter theme park?!) I can’t seem to find any artwork related to Trollhunters, but keep your eyes peeled and ears to the ground for more news!