Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Throwback cartoon recipe adds a dash of sweetness; violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Cuphead Show!
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 8 parent reviews
Based on 21 kid reviews
Kids say this show is entertaining and filled with humor, although it contains some mild violence and themes related to the devil that may not suit everyone, depending on their beliefs. Fans appreciate the nostalgic animation style and character depth, but some criticize its inconsistent plot and portrayal of certain characters, while overall, many find it enjoyable for both kids and adults.
- funny moments
- mild violence
- character depth
- inconsistent plot
- nostalgic animation
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE CUPHEAD SHOW! is an animated comedy series following the unique misadventures of lovable, impulsive scamp Cuphead (voiced by Tru Valentino) and his cautious but easily swayed brother, Mugman. As the two scour their surreal world of the Inkwell Isles in search of fun and adventure, they always have each other's back. Unless there's only one cookie left, in which case it's every cup for himself. The show also inspires an occasional dose of the heebie-jeebies -- especially when a ridiculously weird nemesis, the devil himself, arrives on the scene to toy with the brothers.
Is It Any Good?
Despite its frenetic and mostly shallow characters, this charming cartoon accomplishes the formidable goal of making a 90-year-old animation style fresh again. Elementary school-age kids will enjoy the slapstick humor of The Cuphead Show!, while parents will appreciate the sparse dialogue and nostalgic feel. The episodes are short and often violent in a Looney Tunes kind of way, but they exude a largely innocent tone. The personified objects and animals that coexist in the Inkwell Isles each have their own unique charm. The ladybug mayor is a favorite, and even the devil himself is more silly than scary most of the time. The show's violence may get old for some, but it's worth a view, if only to share a few giggles while marveling over the Alexander Graham Bell-era telephones and other retro delights.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Cuphead and Mugman's relationship. How can you tell they care about each other?
Why is it funny to watch things blow up and to see Cuphead and Mugman fight? Why can something be funny on television but dangerous in real life?
How is this show similar to and different from the old classic cartoons? Families can also discuss the difference between the pen-and-ink animation used in older cartoons and the flash and computer animation techniques seen in modern stuff. Can you see a difference? Which do you prefer?
TV Details
- Premiere date : February 18, 2022
- Cast : Tru Valentino , Frank Todaro
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- TV rating :
- Last updated : March 20, 2026
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