Speed Racer series (G)

Available in five DVD sets, the beginning of this TV series tells an exciting, if simply animated, adventure story. Here, our hero Speed races to win prize money for a new car, while fending off villains trying to steal plans for the car. By the end of the series, after going up against a number of villainous characters, dangerously tricked-out cars, and shady schemes -- while sticking to his good-guy image -- Speed is a seasoned driver ready for the title of best racer in the world.

This hit 1960s Japanese cartoon has a sleek look and an emphasis on car crashes and other explosions that kids will love almost as much as die-hard anime fans. The beginning of the series is more awkwardly animated and less streamlined than later episodes, but there are still plenty of fast-paced thrills. As the series progresses, fans will find more psychological themes and drama mixed with the action and suspense.

The best in this series is Episode 21, "The Fastest Car on Earth" (found on volume 2), where Speed falls under the spell of a powerful new racing engine. The series' usual emphasis on action and movement is heightened by some very dramatic visual effects and a fully orchestrated, suspenseful music score.