For someone who never watched the original Sabrina the Teenage Witch, much less read any of the original Archie comics, this was the closest I could get to those. It was pretty good for its time and there is a lesson or moral involved at the end of each episode. Even if it was short-lived I enjoyed most of the episodes. It's good for the preteen crowd or even younger if you want something wholesome for your young ones. Some parts might get a little intense though.
21 Reviews
Inferior prequel show but not that bad
TheLittleSongbird28 September 2017
The original 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' show was a favourite as a child and, despite a couple of issues with the college seasons, still is a lot of immensely likable fun with memorable characters and its fair share of wit, charm and magic.
'Sabrina: The Animated Series' is a prequel show, with the characters as their younger selves, but animated in alternative to live-action and in sitcom format like 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'. Of the two shows, to me there is no doubt as to which is the better one but there are other near-widely disliked shows like 'Trollz, 'Bratz' and the worst of Cartoon Network ('Johnny Test', 'Problem Solverz' and 'Uncle Grandpa') and Nickelodeon ('Chalkzone', 'Fanboy and Chum Chum' and 'Breadwinners') that deserve that distinction far more.
Yes, 'Sabrina: The Animated Series' could have been better. 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' does have much more wit and magic, while the stories and writing could have done with more variety and imagination (there's magic here but rarely done in an extraordinary way), tending to be somewhat on the basic, safe and formulaic side.
Likewise, some of the side characters could have been developed more than just typical archetypes, particularly bland and slightly dumb Harvey and even worse Gem who is an obnoxious brat and snob, both done to overkill effect. Some of the character designs lack finesse a little.
However, 'Sabrina: The Animated Series' mostly looks bright and colourful while having some nice detail. It's not the most refined of animation, but there are a huge amount of films and shows that are animated far worse. The music is dynamic and catchy, not as generic sounding as it could have been.
Despite the lack of originality and variety, and not being as witty and magical as before, the writing has fun, charm and heart with some nice humour and amiability, with the stories being neat, cohesive and lively in pace. It also does a much better job than 'Trollz' and 'Bratz' at incorporating values, even though familiar they make their mark without beating the viewer around the head and are easy to identify with, and relevant everyday topics, also familiar but done with a lot more upbeat positivity and in a way that is cute without being sugar-coated.
While not all the characters work, others do and what clichés/archetypes there are are actually done in an honest and positive way, where one won't question or be offended by what the episodes are trying to say, no dubious messaging here. Sabrina has her faults, which stops her from being a too perfect character, but is a likable enough lead character and a far healthier role model than any of the characters from 'Bratz' for example. Of the other characters, the best is Salem, the funniest, wisest, most endearing and most interesting, with cool Aunt Zelda and amusing Uncle Quigley close behind. The voice acting is pretty good, Emily Hart does as good a job as her sister Melissa while the best voiced character overall is Salem.
Overall, nowhere near as good as 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' but to me it's better than given credit for. 6/10 Bethany Cox
'Sabrina: The Animated Series' is a prequel show, with the characters as their younger selves, but animated in alternative to live-action and in sitcom format like 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'. Of the two shows, to me there is no doubt as to which is the better one but there are other near-widely disliked shows like 'Trollz, 'Bratz' and the worst of Cartoon Network ('Johnny Test', 'Problem Solverz' and 'Uncle Grandpa') and Nickelodeon ('Chalkzone', 'Fanboy and Chum Chum' and 'Breadwinners') that deserve that distinction far more.
Yes, 'Sabrina: The Animated Series' could have been better. 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' does have much more wit and magic, while the stories and writing could have done with more variety and imagination (there's magic here but rarely done in an extraordinary way), tending to be somewhat on the basic, safe and formulaic side.
Likewise, some of the side characters could have been developed more than just typical archetypes, particularly bland and slightly dumb Harvey and even worse Gem who is an obnoxious brat and snob, both done to overkill effect. Some of the character designs lack finesse a little.
However, 'Sabrina: The Animated Series' mostly looks bright and colourful while having some nice detail. It's not the most refined of animation, but there are a huge amount of films and shows that are animated far worse. The music is dynamic and catchy, not as generic sounding as it could have been.
Despite the lack of originality and variety, and not being as witty and magical as before, the writing has fun, charm and heart with some nice humour and amiability, with the stories being neat, cohesive and lively in pace. It also does a much better job than 'Trollz' and 'Bratz' at incorporating values, even though familiar they make their mark without beating the viewer around the head and are easy to identify with, and relevant everyday topics, also familiar but done with a lot more upbeat positivity and in a way that is cute without being sugar-coated.
While not all the characters work, others do and what clichés/archetypes there are are actually done in an honest and positive way, where one won't question or be offended by what the episodes are trying to say, no dubious messaging here. Sabrina has her faults, which stops her from being a too perfect character, but is a likable enough lead character and a far healthier role model than any of the characters from 'Bratz' for example. Of the other characters, the best is Salem, the funniest, wisest, most endearing and most interesting, with cool Aunt Zelda and amusing Uncle Quigley close behind. The voice acting is pretty good, Emily Hart does as good a job as her sister Melissa while the best voiced character overall is Salem.
Overall, nowhere near as good as 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' but to me it's better than given credit for. 6/10 Bethany Cox
I've never understood why this show is so widely disliked.
imdb-12725 May 2000
As a devoted rec.arts.animation reader, I don't believe I've ever read a single positive comment about "Sabrina: The Animated Series". Although being 21 and watching a series about a junior high schooler with magic powers is a bit embarassing to admit, "Sabrina" is one of the few animated series I watch regularly and the only series that doesn't center around action/adventure. Despite a tremendous number of episodes that have been written -- 65 episodes as I write this, and presumably still more are in production -- the show is and consistent in quality and avoids being overly repetitive, despite somewhat frequent recycling of plots. It's one of just a few cartoons that has made me laugh out loud. Although the animation is a little on the simple side, the style reflects the light, fun energy of the writing. I would hardly consider it to be the best animated series currently on the air, but I find "Sabrina" to be quite entertaining. It clearly seems to be geared towards upper elementary/early junior high students. Younger children probably won't find it very appealing, but aside from the junior set, "Sabrina" comes recommended.
One Bad Witch
a34trgv115 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
As a kid, I really liked shows and movies that play with the concept of magic. Sabrina: The Animated Series, though, was not one of my favorites. I couldn't put my finger on it as a kid, but as an adult I finally understood why this show never resonated with me as much as Harry Potter: it's just not good. From the awful writing to the really unlikable characters, it's unfortunate of me to say that this show killed my immediate interest in consuming more Sabrina media.
An animated adaptation of the classic Archie comics character, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, this show focuses of Sabrina as a young preteen girl living in Greendale. She goes on magical misadventures with her talking cat, Salem, her Aunts Hilda and Zelda, and her friends Harvey and Chloe. All the while trying to hide the fact that she's a witch from the residents of Greendale, save for Chloe. The first problem present in this show is the terrible writing. Each episode focuses on Sabrina trying to makr her life better with magic only to make things worse and her aunts, uncle, or Salem have to get her out of trouble, otherwise she gets out of trouble on accident. The conflicts are often forced, such as with Extreme Harvey and Witchy Grrrls, and common sense is lost on the main characters for the sake of tension. In addition to that, it's not particularly funny. Save for a few moments from Salem and the Weird Al Yankovic cameo in Witchy Grrrls, there isn't much substance when it comes to the humor. It mostly relys on weak gags, obvious word play and weightless slapstick. This all around makes for a tedious 22 minutes, an inexcusable runtime given the lack of substance in each episode.
The characters don't offer much to like and at best are just one dimensional and bland. The exception to this is Salem, who's actually a pretty fun character. He's snarky, laid back, smart and can be funny at times. The only problem with him is that he's NOT the main character of this show. No, that honor is unfortunately bestowed upon Sabrina Spellman, who completes the irresponsible preteen girl trio with Mimi (from What About Mimi) and Polly Pocket. She's arrogant, she's selfish, she lies and she never learns her lesson. No seriously, in You Said a Mouse-Ful she promised that the next time she has a problem, she'll tell her Uncle Quiggly about it. The very next episode (I'm not kidding), Boggie Shoes, when Harvey is lacking confidence in his dancing, she does NOT keep this promise and tries to fix the problem herself only to make things worse. Speaking of friends, Harvey is pretty flat as a character. He doesn't have much personality outside him having a crush on Sabrina and her him, but that's pretty superfluous as they lack real chemistry. Chloe is a better friend, but that's noy saying much considering she's just as irresponsible as Sabrina (and being 12 is NOT an excuse). Chloe otherwise doesn't have much personality of her own, apart from some sass. Pi's character begins and ends with him talking like a wouldbe surfer. Sabrina's family have potential to be well fleshed out characters, but aren't developed beyond filling in their respective archetypes. Zelda's the fun sisterly aunt, Hilda's the motherly aunt, and Uncle Quiggly is the father figure who's undermined and not taken seriously because he doesn't have magic powers (though he's not nearly as interesting as Greg Universe).
Then there's Gem Stone, the designated spoiled brat in Greendale. She yet another full embodiment of this trope I've grown sick of seeing in modern entertainment (sans Lottie from Princess and The Frog, who's actually a really well written character). Gem is selfish, rude, snobby, arrogant and a complete show-off. What particularly baffles me about her (and other spoiled brats) as why anyone takes her seriously, let alone worship her. Her attitude stinks so much not even roaches will go near her. And it's not like she hides her disgusting attitude. She makes fun of Sabrina in front of everyone every chance she gets. She insulted Sabrina's mother and grandmother in Picture Perfect. She spread lies about Sabrina and almost made her choke to death with anchovie pizza in Wag The Witch. Gem Stone should NOT get way with being such a bully to Sabrina, no matter how rich her parents are. If Sabrina was my kid and I found out Gem was bullying her, I'd chew her parents up and spit them out! Gem Stone is without a doubt one of the worst examples of a spoiled brat. Sure, Sabrina isn't much better as a character, but at least she's not a total COW!
Visually, the animation looks pretty good. DIC made good work redesigning Sabrina from her original Archie Comics look to a more grounded yet still visually pleasing look. The characters have unique designs with roundish heads, lengthy limps and big expressive eyes; though the lack of a line under the eyes to close the gap between the eyeballs and the cheeks is a bit off putting. The character animation is fluid and lively with good use of squash and stretch and the staticy effects of magic were a nice touch. The one element I didn't like about the visuals were whenever they use imagination sequences. In addition to being pointless, they were giving me What About Mimi vibes and I wanted no part if that.
I also gotta give credit to the voice actors for making the best with the material. Nick Bakay (who's best known for voicing Norbit from Angry Beavers) really nails Salem's snarky and laid back personality. Cree Summer is always a treat to hear and gives a very good performance as Chloe. As much as I hate Gem Stone, Chantal Strand gave a good performance; so good in fact that I didn't even know she was the same woman who played the sweet and tender Cassie from Dragon Tales until I looked her up. Melissa Joan Hart, who played Sabrina in the live action series in the 90s did a superb job making Hilda and Zelda sound so distinct from one another. Bill Switzer was pretty good playing Harvey, though I can't help but feel he sounded too much like a teenager and not a preteen. Emily Hart, Melissa's sister, try as she might, just doesn't exert as much personality for Sabrina as I had hoped. She sounds like she's playing this role really straight so that she doesn't mess up her lines. Again, I know she's trying her best, but a little more pep in her vocal performance can go along way. Jay Brazeau was fine as Uncle Quiggly, though I don't think the voice he chose fit with the character. I was expecting someone like David DeLuise to bring life to this character. As is, he just sounds more like Sabrina's neighbor who occasionally drops in to say hi. The most disappointing performance though was Bob Bergen as Tim the Witch Smeller. In addition to the characters being infuriatingly lame, Bob used his Marvin The Martian voice for the character and it just doesn't fit at all. The character was one "You have made me very angry" line away from the show getting a lawsuit from Warner Bros..
Lastly, the theme song just isn't that great. The girl group, B*Witched, are really good singers, the chours is catchy and upbeat and it it starts off with a good lyric about to introduce Sabrina. Then they sing "she's the greatest" which is not true, and "here comes the fun now" which is also not true. The worst part about the intro though is it presents a much more interesting show than what we got. It shows Sabrina, Salem and Harvey riding a broomstick (which she never does in the episodes I saw and have no interest in seeing more) flying from dinosaurs, space aliens and pirates. It also show's Sabrina and Salem humiliating Gem, which I wrongfully assumed would be a running gag in the show. The problem with the intro sequence is it gets your hopes up high and the actual show itself is just mediocre.
Sabrina: The Animated Series does NOT do the brand any favors and on it's own is just another boring slice of life cartoon with some magic thrown in there. Despite more than impressive visuals and pretty solid voice acting, the show still suffers from terrible writing, unlikable characters, sluggish pacing and a theme song that's way too good for this show. If the live action show from the 90s or the one on Netflix are any better, feel free to watch those and forget this. As for me, I've had my fill on Sabrina as a whole for a while. I'm also most certainly done with shows about an irresponsible main character who never learns anything. There are only so many times I can say "This character is so irresponsible" without it sounding like I'm repeating myself.
An animated adaptation of the classic Archie comics character, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, this show focuses of Sabrina as a young preteen girl living in Greendale. She goes on magical misadventures with her talking cat, Salem, her Aunts Hilda and Zelda, and her friends Harvey and Chloe. All the while trying to hide the fact that she's a witch from the residents of Greendale, save for Chloe. The first problem present in this show is the terrible writing. Each episode focuses on Sabrina trying to makr her life better with magic only to make things worse and her aunts, uncle, or Salem have to get her out of trouble, otherwise she gets out of trouble on accident. The conflicts are often forced, such as with Extreme Harvey and Witchy Grrrls, and common sense is lost on the main characters for the sake of tension. In addition to that, it's not particularly funny. Save for a few moments from Salem and the Weird Al Yankovic cameo in Witchy Grrrls, there isn't much substance when it comes to the humor. It mostly relys on weak gags, obvious word play and weightless slapstick. This all around makes for a tedious 22 minutes, an inexcusable runtime given the lack of substance in each episode.
The characters don't offer much to like and at best are just one dimensional and bland. The exception to this is Salem, who's actually a pretty fun character. He's snarky, laid back, smart and can be funny at times. The only problem with him is that he's NOT the main character of this show. No, that honor is unfortunately bestowed upon Sabrina Spellman, who completes the irresponsible preteen girl trio with Mimi (from What About Mimi) and Polly Pocket. She's arrogant, she's selfish, she lies and she never learns her lesson. No seriously, in You Said a Mouse-Ful she promised that the next time she has a problem, she'll tell her Uncle Quiggly about it. The very next episode (I'm not kidding), Boggie Shoes, when Harvey is lacking confidence in his dancing, she does NOT keep this promise and tries to fix the problem herself only to make things worse. Speaking of friends, Harvey is pretty flat as a character. He doesn't have much personality outside him having a crush on Sabrina and her him, but that's pretty superfluous as they lack real chemistry. Chloe is a better friend, but that's noy saying much considering she's just as irresponsible as Sabrina (and being 12 is NOT an excuse). Chloe otherwise doesn't have much personality of her own, apart from some sass. Pi's character begins and ends with him talking like a wouldbe surfer. Sabrina's family have potential to be well fleshed out characters, but aren't developed beyond filling in their respective archetypes. Zelda's the fun sisterly aunt, Hilda's the motherly aunt, and Uncle Quiggly is the father figure who's undermined and not taken seriously because he doesn't have magic powers (though he's not nearly as interesting as Greg Universe).
Then there's Gem Stone, the designated spoiled brat in Greendale. She yet another full embodiment of this trope I've grown sick of seeing in modern entertainment (sans Lottie from Princess and The Frog, who's actually a really well written character). Gem is selfish, rude, snobby, arrogant and a complete show-off. What particularly baffles me about her (and other spoiled brats) as why anyone takes her seriously, let alone worship her. Her attitude stinks so much not even roaches will go near her. And it's not like she hides her disgusting attitude. She makes fun of Sabrina in front of everyone every chance she gets. She insulted Sabrina's mother and grandmother in Picture Perfect. She spread lies about Sabrina and almost made her choke to death with anchovie pizza in Wag The Witch. Gem Stone should NOT get way with being such a bully to Sabrina, no matter how rich her parents are. If Sabrina was my kid and I found out Gem was bullying her, I'd chew her parents up and spit them out! Gem Stone is without a doubt one of the worst examples of a spoiled brat. Sure, Sabrina isn't much better as a character, but at least she's not a total COW!
Visually, the animation looks pretty good. DIC made good work redesigning Sabrina from her original Archie Comics look to a more grounded yet still visually pleasing look. The characters have unique designs with roundish heads, lengthy limps and big expressive eyes; though the lack of a line under the eyes to close the gap between the eyeballs and the cheeks is a bit off putting. The character animation is fluid and lively with good use of squash and stretch and the staticy effects of magic were a nice touch. The one element I didn't like about the visuals were whenever they use imagination sequences. In addition to being pointless, they were giving me What About Mimi vibes and I wanted no part if that.
I also gotta give credit to the voice actors for making the best with the material. Nick Bakay (who's best known for voicing Norbit from Angry Beavers) really nails Salem's snarky and laid back personality. Cree Summer is always a treat to hear and gives a very good performance as Chloe. As much as I hate Gem Stone, Chantal Strand gave a good performance; so good in fact that I didn't even know she was the same woman who played the sweet and tender Cassie from Dragon Tales until I looked her up. Melissa Joan Hart, who played Sabrina in the live action series in the 90s did a superb job making Hilda and Zelda sound so distinct from one another. Bill Switzer was pretty good playing Harvey, though I can't help but feel he sounded too much like a teenager and not a preteen. Emily Hart, Melissa's sister, try as she might, just doesn't exert as much personality for Sabrina as I had hoped. She sounds like she's playing this role really straight so that she doesn't mess up her lines. Again, I know she's trying her best, but a little more pep in her vocal performance can go along way. Jay Brazeau was fine as Uncle Quiggly, though I don't think the voice he chose fit with the character. I was expecting someone like David DeLuise to bring life to this character. As is, he just sounds more like Sabrina's neighbor who occasionally drops in to say hi. The most disappointing performance though was Bob Bergen as Tim the Witch Smeller. In addition to the characters being infuriatingly lame, Bob used his Marvin The Martian voice for the character and it just doesn't fit at all. The character was one "You have made me very angry" line away from the show getting a lawsuit from Warner Bros..
Lastly, the theme song just isn't that great. The girl group, B*Witched, are really good singers, the chours is catchy and upbeat and it it starts off with a good lyric about to introduce Sabrina. Then they sing "she's the greatest" which is not true, and "here comes the fun now" which is also not true. The worst part about the intro though is it presents a much more interesting show than what we got. It shows Sabrina, Salem and Harvey riding a broomstick (which she never does in the episodes I saw and have no interest in seeing more) flying from dinosaurs, space aliens and pirates. It also show's Sabrina and Salem humiliating Gem, which I wrongfully assumed would be a running gag in the show. The problem with the intro sequence is it gets your hopes up high and the actual show itself is just mediocre.
Sabrina: The Animated Series does NOT do the brand any favors and on it's own is just another boring slice of life cartoon with some magic thrown in there. Despite more than impressive visuals and pretty solid voice acting, the show still suffers from terrible writing, unlikable characters, sluggish pacing and a theme song that's way too good for this show. If the live action show from the 90s or the one on Netflix are any better, feel free to watch those and forget this. As for me, I've had my fill on Sabrina as a whole for a while. I'm also most certainly done with shows about an irresponsible main character who never learns anything. There are only so many times I can say "This character is so irresponsible" without it sounding like I'm repeating myself.
"just adore me for now" i don't think so
tyranid_slayer11 May 2007
Warning: Spoilers
This little show is obviously some stupid little prequel/spin off of the original series.
Compared to the live action series this show is utter crap. The live action show had intelligent jokes and story lines. While the animated series is basically a toned down bittersweet version for younger viewers to digest but i think maybe kids deteste this crap.
The storyline in every episode is basically just Sabrina has some stupid and pointless dillemma and she uses magic to fix it. Thats basiclly the idea every episode. The most bizarre episode was when Sabrina uses magic to become Gem and Gem to become Sabrina. So then Gem becomes a witch and hypnotizes harvery to become her slave. This then leads to a bizarre yet rather interesting scene were Gem says "just adore me for now" and harvey get down on his hands and knees and starts kissing her feet like shes a god. (which is quite right since he's her mind control slave) But this stupid spin-off is not worth the time or the effort.
Compared to the live action series this show is utter crap. The live action show had intelligent jokes and story lines. While the animated series is basically a toned down bittersweet version for younger viewers to digest but i think maybe kids deteste this crap.
The storyline in every episode is basically just Sabrina has some stupid and pointless dillemma and she uses magic to fix it. Thats basiclly the idea every episode. The most bizarre episode was when Sabrina uses magic to become Gem and Gem to become Sabrina. So then Gem becomes a witch and hypnotizes harvery to become her slave. This then leads to a bizarre yet rather interesting scene were Gem says "just adore me for now" and harvey get down on his hands and knees and starts kissing her feet like shes a god. (which is quite right since he's her mind control slave) But this stupid spin-off is not worth the time or the effort.
A Cute And Good Series
Ginger877 August 2004
"Sabrina The Animated Series" really wasn't that bad. I was always a fan of "Sabrina The Teenage Witch" and I was excited when this show premiered. I watched it the first day it aired and found the series to be really cute. I liked the fact that Sabrina was 12, the same age as me at the time. I also liked how Aunt Hilda and Zelda were younger. They were cooler. Salem was hysterical like how he was in the sitcom.
My favorite episodes were"Send in the Clones", "WorkingWitches", "Witch Switch "and "Brina Baby". These episodes were great. My favorite characters were Salem and Harvey(he was so cute)!
I liked this series and was glad that it wasn't exactly like the sitcom. Otherwise it would have been really boring having two shows EXACTLY THE SAME! "Sabrina The Animated Series" deserves 9/10 stars!
My favorite episodes were"Send in the Clones", "WorkingWitches", "Witch Switch "and "Brina Baby". These episodes were great. My favorite characters were Salem and Harvey(he was so cute)!
I liked this series and was glad that it wasn't exactly like the sitcom. Otherwise it would have been really boring having two shows EXACTLY THE SAME! "Sabrina The Animated Series" deserves 9/10 stars!
It's not that bad.
FanofAnime126 September 2011
I actually watched this show when I was little and really enjoyed it. It was one of my favorite shows. Everyone who hates it, hates it just because it isn't the same as the sitcom. Well, it isn't based on the sitcom; it's based on the comic. Plus, what point was there of having exactly the same show, only animated? Of course it had to be different. Also, it was meant for a younger demographic, so of course it was going to be sugar coated and the characters were going to be younger. I feel that instead of comparing the two, just focus on the actual show you are reviewing. I know the show isn't perfect. I know that the storyline was repeated, but most cartoons(even classics like Scooby Doo) did the same thing. I know the animation isn't top notch, but not many animated TV shows at the time were. I personally was never bothered by the animation. Trust me, there are worse examples of animation. I would judge the animation in this show to be about average. I know it was educational, but I don't see the harm in that. What's so bad about educational shows? If a kid could be entertained and educated, I don't see what's wrong with that. I know the characters are bland and stereotypical. But in the end, it is a fun show to watch for kids. I loved this show as a kid. I watched it every Saturday morning. I even watch it every now and then for nostalgia reasons. While I can see why people can dislike this show, I don't see any reason to HATE it. It's an okay show that I personally enjoyed and still enjoy watching.
Good Show
genew20 January 2004
Sabrina the Animated Series is a good show even though it strays from the Sabrina, The Teenage Witch sitcom & comic. The characters are different in the cartoon. Sabrina is much younger. Zelda & Hilda are also much younger & hipper than the sitcom. Salem is the best & Salem is still as funny as he is in the sitcom.
The voice are also different. Emily Hart is the voice of Sabrina. Melissa Joan Hart does the voices of Zelda & Hilda. Nick Bakay does the voice of Salem (Nick Bakay does the voice of Salem on Sabrina, The Teenage Witch).
The show is different but it is also good. My favorite episode is the Driver ED episode. IMO, the reason why people don't like this show is because people expected it to be just Sabrina, The Teenage Witch.
The voice are also different. Emily Hart is the voice of Sabrina. Melissa Joan Hart does the voices of Zelda & Hilda. Nick Bakay does the voice of Salem (Nick Bakay does the voice of Salem on Sabrina, The Teenage Witch).
The show is different but it is also good. My favorite episode is the Driver ED episode. IMO, the reason why people don't like this show is because people expected it to be just Sabrina, The Teenage Witch.
Very Cute and Now Nostalgic
kilobbyyte2 June 2021
I was able to watch all 65 episodes of this show as an adult. I remember when this was on back in 1999-2000 and it was a very cute show. I was somewhat a fan of the sitcom but since I was a kid animation was what I was most drawn towards.
Reviewing the show today I would say that this was amazing for its time. I love the graphics for today but I do have a few things that wasn't clarified in the show exactly. I will start with Aunt Hilda and Aunt Zelda. Hilda and Zelda's character names could've been switched around it would have been a better fit. I did not like the character voice for Hilda..just did not care for the accent. I did not like the choice in style of clothing for Zelda. Hilda's clothing resembled the outfit of the time. For the aunt's to be 16 in mortal world as referred to on the show, Aunt Hilda looked 25-30 and Zelda looked 35-40 even though as witches they are 600 years old.
The slight mystery behind her parents were covered decently. We did get to see what her mother looked like since she is mortal and her father is the one who is the warlock. Not making the mother a witch was actually a good thing but I am not clear on why her father wasn't around much. Uncle Quigley is another person in question. Is he just Sabrina's uncle because he possesses no magical abilities whatsoever. Now on to Salem the Cat, his sarcasm and loyalty to Sabrina is something that adds to the show he brings comedy to each episode. The mystery in hiding what he looked like before being turned into a cat.... I guess keeps the mystery of what the show is really about. The side characters were the typical grade school type with the Harvey, Pi, Slugloaf, best friend Chloe and Gemini "Gem" Stone and her cheerleader lackeys. Gem's character never really transitioned well no one's character truly made a shift from worst to better or vice versa.
The show's overall layout was very fitting, most of the episodes centered around a Friday evening or the weekend. We did see them at school often but all the scenarios were interesting and fun between the mortal world and the netherworld. It was a cool idea to have her bff Chloe go around on adventures with her and she did not have to hide being a half-witch from everyone in her life except Harvey and the few other kids around her. The show was a nice show and it makes a good binge-able cartoon to watch and have that Saturday morning feel.
Reviewing the show today I would say that this was amazing for its time. I love the graphics for today but I do have a few things that wasn't clarified in the show exactly. I will start with Aunt Hilda and Aunt Zelda. Hilda and Zelda's character names could've been switched around it would have been a better fit. I did not like the character voice for Hilda..just did not care for the accent. I did not like the choice in style of clothing for Zelda. Hilda's clothing resembled the outfit of the time. For the aunt's to be 16 in mortal world as referred to on the show, Aunt Hilda looked 25-30 and Zelda looked 35-40 even though as witches they are 600 years old.
The slight mystery behind her parents were covered decently. We did get to see what her mother looked like since she is mortal and her father is the one who is the warlock. Not making the mother a witch was actually a good thing but I am not clear on why her father wasn't around much. Uncle Quigley is another person in question. Is he just Sabrina's uncle because he possesses no magical abilities whatsoever. Now on to Salem the Cat, his sarcasm and loyalty to Sabrina is something that adds to the show he brings comedy to each episode. The mystery in hiding what he looked like before being turned into a cat.... I guess keeps the mystery of what the show is really about. The side characters were the typical grade school type with the Harvey, Pi, Slugloaf, best friend Chloe and Gemini "Gem" Stone and her cheerleader lackeys. Gem's character never really transitioned well no one's character truly made a shift from worst to better or vice versa.
The show's overall layout was very fitting, most of the episodes centered around a Friday evening or the weekend. We did see them at school often but all the scenarios were interesting and fun between the mortal world and the netherworld. It was a cool idea to have her bff Chloe go around on adventures with her and she did not have to hide being a half-witch from everyone in her life except Harvey and the few other kids around her. The show was a nice show and it makes a good binge-able cartoon to watch and have that Saturday morning feel.
It is not based on the live action tv series
makare117 December 2002
It is based on the actual comic book. Considering the fact that the tv show is NOTHING like the comic, I like the cartoon much better.
I know this is short but the main reason I wrote it was to say that I really like this show and to point out the irony of a person calling the characters imbeciles while being unable to spell it
I know this is short but the main reason I wrote it was to say that I really like this show and to point out the irony of a person calling the characters imbeciles while being unable to spell it
Awesome
haruhithebfdisabrinaandbrookly24 March 2024
This show is one of the best Cartoon Network shows ever in Cartoon Network History. In fact this show alongside Total Drama Pahkitew Island needs to return to Cartoon Network. Because we are literally.tired of Teen Titans Go!. We need this show Total Drama Pahkitew Island, Fosters home to come back. My favorite characters in Sabrina The Animated Series were Sabrina Salem Calista Cheryl and Sky. Cheryl is one of the most hilarious characters on the show. In fact she is actually the most hilarious character in the entire show. Especially her catchphrase from The Importance of Being Norma. Ashley is another character that I Love. Because I love every member of the cheer squad except for gem. Since Gem got mad at Calista in No Time To Be A Hero.
A cute version of the series...
rustygilligan23 March 2003
I've seen that some people complained about the 'reality' of the show as compared to the series, but you really can't compare them. This version shows a younger Sabrina (voiced by Melissa Joan Hart's sister), 2 younger/sexier versions of her aunts (both voiced by Melissa Joan Hart), and an Uncle Quigley. Of course Salem is there, but now he's more hip and can use his magic powers. In this version, we see a younger more carefree Sabrina, in early highschool, which is geared towards a younger Disney audience. Even the 'villain' has changed. Where 'real' Sabrina fights with Libby, 'cartoon' Sabrina tussles with Gem Stone (wealthy, snobby, obnoxious). This animated series is hysterical... Salem is just as funny as the series, Sabrina gets into an all new kind of trouble, and the younger aunts are sexier and also getting into trouble. Uncle Quigley adds to the fun by trying to control the unruly witches as well. Also included, for the benefit of the younger audience, is Sabrina's friend Chloe who also knows that shes a witch... I mean, HEY, what little girl can keep a secret ?! LOL
It's Cute
tammypeter8 March 2001
I like the show. It's kinda cute. Kids love it, and I think that is the most important thing. Sure the animation isn't all that great, but it a very colorful show, and very creative. I know, at least, my daughter loves it
Stick with the sitcom instead of this poorly animated junk!!!
Doc_Who16 October 1999
If you love the TV sitcom, you will hate the series!!The animation is pathetic!It is the same animation as Disney's "One Hundred and One Dalmations"(another movie turned into a dialy cartoon series. But if you have to watch fine, be warned!It is candy coated and very stupid!!But if you like their style that they animated it in !!Watch it !!I have only watch it once or twice after work and do not rate it as one of my favorite animated TV series, Even "Beast War: Transformers" is better animated than stuff!!My advice to anyone even thinking about watching this to stick with the sitcim instead,(at least they are real people !)So remember,animated series do not watch!!The sitcom watch it !!!
Absolutely Ridiculous!
wishkah711 January 2000
I watched this cartoon one time when I was babysitting my niece and nephew. And I must say it's the worst new cartoon that's out now. The sitcom with Melissa Joan Hart is popular with the kids, but compared to this cartoon prequel I'd say I prefer the sitcom! The animation is cheap, the characters are shallow.
Also seeing these characters go through what teenagers would normally go through is what also turned me off about this cartoon, and in this show, they're supposed to be pre-teens! And pre-teens don't even act like teenagers yet! Hasn't that 'teen-girl with powers' plot been used enough? Also, the characters this show has: we have a rich-girl rival who's mean to Sabrina, apparently for no good reason. And we have Harvey acting like some surfer dude, and he too has a best friend! Coincedence?
My niece and nephew didn't like this cartoon either, they like the sitcom, though. They decided to stick with Pokemon! After that, I have never watched this cartoon again. A big disapointing excuse for children's entertainment.
Also seeing these characters go through what teenagers would normally go through is what also turned me off about this cartoon, and in this show, they're supposed to be pre-teens! And pre-teens don't even act like teenagers yet! Hasn't that 'teen-girl with powers' plot been used enough? Also, the characters this show has: we have a rich-girl rival who's mean to Sabrina, apparently for no good reason. And we have Harvey acting like some surfer dude, and he too has a best friend! Coincedence?
My niece and nephew didn't like this cartoon either, they like the sitcom, though. They decided to stick with Pokemon! After that, I have never watched this cartoon again. A big disapointing excuse for children's entertainment.
Could it get worse?
SkateBro1326 April 2002
I strongly disliked this cartoon. I would see it once or twice in the mornings, where I caught tons of errors between the cartoon and the base movie and television series. The animation is smooth, but the plot is much worse than the weekly show's. It was almost as bad as its build-up made it seem. Basically, this is not recommended, and in many fortunate places, is no longer aired.
All spit at what's possibly the worst show ever
nancyglos12 May 2003
This s**t is possibly the worst show I've ever seen. There is the title character Sabrina, the teenage witch from what was the then-popular ABC TV show "Sabrina the Teenage Witch". However, the Sabrina from this show is completely different from the Sabrina that everybody loved at the time (cartoon Sabrina seems younger than the "...Teenage Witch" Sabrina [in fact, Melissa Joan Hart's little sister plays the title role in this show, while Melissa plays Aunts Hilda and Zelda]). All the people that came from the actual show are older compared to the people from the cartoon. Hilda and Zelda are adults compared to the teenage hippies the Aunts are in the cartoon. There's no Uncle Quigly, Pi (who's an annoying moron who is obsessed with the supernatural and believes that there are aliens), or Jem (who's a mean, spoiled brat who rubs it in at everybody's faces) in the actual show. I don't like the voices for Pi or Jem (they're too dark). The animation and writing sucks (Hey! Whaddya expect from DiC, of whom I heard ruined "Sailor Moon" when it came to America). That show, in my opinion, was the point when the actual "Sabrina" series became obscure. I even stopped watching "Sabrina" as it was on its last legs. Good thing the show is gone, but I don't like the reason why (because of Disney's controversial "65-episode-limit" where every show from Disney, regardless of whether it sucks or it's popular, gets off the air after exactly 65 episodes [enough episodes for a show to be internationally syndicated]). I give this show no stars. In the immortal words of S.H. Panda from South Park: "That makes me a saaaaaaad panda"
This show's a joke.
dootuss1 February 2002
I hate this show so much! It's so stupid, and inaccurate! Why is Sabrina in Junior High in this cartoon, and her aunts are witches dressed a hippies?! Her aunts are adults on the sitcom, but they looked like they came out of the 60's or something in this cartoon! Plus a lot of the characters on this show aren't even on the sitcom either! All in all, this show is utter crap, and I for one, am glad it got canned!
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