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In the 80s and 90s, French-speaking television saw many cartoons that left a lasting mark on the collective imagination. These series, often marked by creativity, originality, and sometimes a certain melancholy, continue to resonate with the generations who saw them. Among them, "Les Mondes Engloutis" stands out for its richness and singularity.
1. Les Mondes Engloutis (1985-1987)
This series, created by Nina Wolmark, immerses viewers in a fascinating underground universe, where the child heroes, Arkana, Bic, Bac and Spartakus, set out in search of the mysterious Shagmir. With an unforgettable soundtrack and a complex mythology, "Les Mondes Engloutis" captivated with its originality and sometimes dark tone. The series also tackled deep themes, such as the quest for identity and the fight against oppression.
Why it's remarkable: A rich and creative universe, with a unique vision that marked an entire generation.
2. Ulysses 31 (1981)
This series, mixing Greek mythology and science fiction, follows the adventures of Ulysses in space, in search of a way to return to Earth while confronting the gods of Olympus. Ulysses 31 gave new life to ancient myths with a fascinating futuristic aesthetic.
Impact: Ulysses 31 redefined the genre of animated films by introducing mythological stories into a science fiction context.
3. Inspector Gadget (1983)
This comedy series follows the adventures of the clumsy but endearing inspector, equipped with futuristic gadgets. With the help of his niece Sophie and his dog Finot, he foils Dr. Gang's plans.
Impact: One of the first cartoons to combine humor, action, and technological gadgets in a light and family-friendly way.
4. Clementine (1985)
Clementine, a young girl in a wheelchair after an accident, travels to fantastical worlds to escape the evil Malmoth, while searching for healing. This series addresses strong emotional themes and has a mature tone.
Impact: A poignant story that has been able to approach difficult subjects with sensitivity and hope.
5. The Mysterious Cities of Gold (1982-1983)
The adventures of Esteban, Zia and Tao in search of the legendary Cities of Gold have fascinated thousands of children. The series combines history, adventure and mystery in an exotic setting.
Impact: An educational series, featuring ancient cultures with an exciting adventure story.
6. Il était une fois... l'Homme (1978-1981)
This educational series tells the story of humanity, from its origins to the present day, through recurring characters, and remains a model of fun and visual education.
Impact: An innovative way to teach history to children, while entertaining them.
7. Dragon Ball (1986-1996)
Although of Japanese origin, "Dragon Ball" was a phenomenal success in French-speaking countries, with constant broadcasts in the 90s. Following the adventures of Son Goku, this martial arts series marked a new era in animation.
Impact: One of the first major successes of Japanese anime in the West, having helped popularize the genre.
The 80s and 90s were the golden age of cartoons for young French-speaking people, and many of these series continue to resonate today. "Les Mondes Engloutis", in particular, remains a work apart, with a rare depth for a cartoon intended for young people. By revisiting these works, we rediscover the richness of this era and the impact it had on our collective imagination.
Special tribute: Albator (1978, broadcast in the 80s and 90s)
Created by Leiji Matsumoto, "Albator" (or "Captain Harlock" in Japan) follows the adventures of a space pirate fighting against the forces of an extraterrestrial dictatorship. With his ship the Arcadia and his crew, Albator embodies rebellion, freedom, and heroism. This series particularly marked the French-speaking public with its dark atmosphere, its philosophical themes on freedom and sacrifice, and its solitary hero.
Impact: Albator has become a true icon of popular culture in France and other French-speaking countries, embodying the dream of independence and resistance in the face of oppression.