Kappa Mikey

What’s the Story?

Nicktoons' anime series KAPPA MIKEY follows American actor Mikey Simon, who wins the chance to star in the Japanese anime series LilyMu via a scratch-off card contest. Mikey delves into his new gig, suddenly finding himself living in Japan and adored by millions as the series' new superhero. His presence helps revive the show's sagging ratings, but not all of his co-stars are happy to have him around -- particularly the show's former darling, the jealous and petulant Lily. Fellow actors Mitsuki, Gonard, and furry little Guano are a bit more welcoming, helping Mikey adjust to his new life.

Is It Any Good?

If you're looking for substance and strong messages, you'll find them lacking; Kappa Mikey's entertainment value lies more in the constant blur of color and action (and dancing sushi between scenes) rather than the script. The show is also an odd mix of animation styles; to emphasize Mikey's fish-out-of-water situation, the creators made him look very flat and two-dimensional, whereas the other LilyMu cast members are drawn in typical anime style, with their facial features becoming strangely distorted according to their mood. Speaking of those moods, two of the characters, Lily and Guano, often throw screaming temper tantrums, which grates on the nerves after a while.

Kappa Mikey might be a bit more engaging if it had stronger plotlines and more likable characters; even Mikey acts like a dumb, inconsiderate college kid at times. The show generates a few laughs here and there, but the mix of animation styles and the high-strung characters are somewhat off-putting.