I Got a Rocket

The show's fast action, goofy characters, and futuristic visuals are sure to please young viewers, though kids older than 12 or so will probably grow bored by the predictable storylines and tween silliness. A colorful crew of characters helps hold the show together. There's V.P. Stern, a beatnik-ish administrator who tries to "connect" with his students but misses the beat each time; Rainbow, a friend of Vinnie's who's mellow, peaceful, and understanding but carries around a vindictive, angry doll named Judy; and Frankie Ducky, the leader of a group of three bullies that's out to get Vinnie and steal Rocket (though there's a slight hint that she might have a bit of a crush on Vinnie, too).

It's worth noting that Vinnie's sudden coolness -- all because he gets a piece of high-tech machinery -- is a situation not unlike what many kids and parents grapple with daily regarding gear like cell phones and other hand-held devices. Still, I Got a Rocket offers plenty of slapstick, tween-oriented cartoon humor (Vinnie getting hung by his underwear on a flagpole, threats of exploding Rocket, etc.), and its fast-paced, simple plotline will appeal to kids who like immediate action. But best of all, perhaps, is the example it offers of a close, reciprocal friendship.