Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Psychedelic cartoon has good vibes but no substance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Wake Up, Carlo!
What's the Story?
In WAKE UP, CARLO! 7-year-old Carlo (voiced by Mark Whitten in the English version) goes into an enchanted forest during a game of hide-and-seek and wakes up 20 years later. He finds out that since he's been asleep, the "Island of Fun for No Reason" from his childhood has been transformed into the "Kingdom of Decisions." There's a megalomanic King Blaus (Greg Chun) at the helm now, and he has directed everyone to send their happy memories to the "Collective Past Locker." Worse, Carlo realizes that all of his friends have turned into serious grown-ups while he was sleeping. He reunites with his old best friend Berto (a green monster), and they team up on a quest to bring back the carefree vibes from childhood.
Is It Any Good?
This will seem like a zany show to kids, but adults may find themselves wondering if it's really intended for children. While the actual content in Wake Up, Carlo! is kid-appropriate, the series has very strong Adult Swim and stoner vibes. The premise and characters are fun and original, but it's super difficult to follow the story. The plot exists only to set up some funny gag moments and lacks a deeper message. A lot of kids' cartoons for this age are quirky and nonsensical, but most of them have substance under the silly. Tweens who like wacky humor can find something better than Carlo.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Carlo is different from his friends who have all become grown-ups. How do you feel different from adults in your own life?
Wake Up, Carlo! is mostly silly and fun, and it's sometimes hard to understand what's going on in the story. Do you think it's a good show for kids? Why, or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 6, 2023
- Cast : Greg Chun , Rachelle Heger , Mark Whitten
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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