'Napoleon Dynamite' Needs to Die in Peace Already

on January 16, 2012 at 2:20 PM

When I first heard that an animated Napoleon Dynamite TV show would be making its way into my living room, I rolled my eyes, scoffed, and made other gestures that signify disgust and contempt. I loved Napoleon Dynamite (the movie) when it came out. So much so that I saw it in the theater twice. And I own the DVD. At the time, it was unlike anything else out there. But it's been nearly eight years since the off-beat, low-budget, indie film took Hollywood by storm -- and since then, there have been a million shows, films, and Internet videos that have attempted to mimic the movie's quirky, original voice. None with such luck. So, what made anybody think that a television version was a good idea? Especially now?

Despite my preconceived notions, I went into the two episode premiere with an open mind (well, I tried). Where it wasn't the worst thing to ever grace my TV (I watch lots of Bravo) -- and it's always amusing to hear Jon Heder doing the Napoleon voice -- I'm afraid I was right. A TV version of Napoleon Dynamite just isn't funny.

Not only does it seem tired because, like I said, there have been countless Napoleon Dynamite-esque renditions of things over the years, it seems tired because there are tons of animated shows on TV right now. And they all have that similar-looking Simpsons/Family Guy/Cleveland Show type of animation. So, the show really doesn't seem original (which was the movie's main allure) tonally or aesthetically. It's more of a schtick now.

As much as we all loved the film, I think we need to let Napoleon Dynamite die quietly and gracefully in peace. It was, and still is, one of those rare things that just can't be replicated. Even with all the original actors.

Did you watch Napoleon Dynamite? What did you think?

Image via Carlos Varela/Flickr

About the author Nicole Fabian-Weber

has the world's most gorgeous dog. It's a fact.

Filed Under: television

Comments (24)

billsfan1104

on Jan 16, 2012 at 2:41 PM

I agree!!! I agree!!!! It was a great movie and people need to just let it go into the great wonder of films that will and never should be recreated into tv shows, cartoons etc etc.

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SaphiraJFire

on Jan 16, 2012 at 2:47 PM

I did watch unfortunatly.

I agree with you it jsut was not that funny it was lame. the story was slow really and by the time the second one came on I was like oh no freaking way I am not watching that one!

in all honesty I did not like the movie much either though so my opinion was already a bit

ldbc

on Jan 16, 2012 at 3:14 PM

Yes, agree. I didn't even make it all the way through one of the cartoon episodes. It just cannot compete with the real Napoleon Dynamite.

Nonmember comment from shelly hoffman

on Jan 16, 2012 at 3:21 PM

While I agree with you that it probably shouldn't have been made, it's no longer a shock that it, or others like it are made, (though your article was cogent and interesting) In regards to animation especially at 20th, they only make shows that revolve around families. That's it. That's their studios mandate. They did try, with the one and only person--even more so then Seth, Matt Groening, and originally put Futurama on, but it didn't work. That's because there is a large portion of the TV viewership that simply won't watch animation. Then when you say it's an animated sci-fi show. Forget about it...even if it is from MG. But an animated show with the access point of a family (highly relatable) or a hit movie...well then it gives it more of a chance. Plus they are going for the 18-34 y/o male demo so why not pick a movie like Napoleon Dynamite. The development process of animation on a major network, not comedy central or spike (which opts for more spaghetti programming...ie throw a show on the wall and see if it sticks) is very expensive and time consuming so the studio in this case 20CF doesn't want it to fail, and if they can try and get a little of that "indie" cache, or what's left of it with N.D. then their gonna do it. I completely get your complaint but a step back from their business perspective it makes sense. Great article though!

Nonmember comment from Christie

on Jan 16, 2012 at 3:59 PM

I watched (kind-of) because I never just watch TV there is always something going on.... I agree with you .... I cannot stand Family Guy or any spin off or similar show...The Cleveland Show and now this one seem like they are written by the same people....I am not a fan

mustbeGRACE

on Jan 16, 2012 at 4:25 PM

I loved the movie so much that I was happy to see these two programs.

They aren't perfect, just better than nothing.

Nonmember comment from CoopsMom

on Jan 16, 2012 at 4:30 PM

I am sure it speaks volumes about me, but I LOVED both episodes. Watched with my son, who also couldn't stop laughing or quoting... Maybe its because I am from the great state of Idaho ??!!

Nonmember comment from D-Rokkit

on Jan 16, 2012 at 5:35 PM

The awkward physical acting, gawky features, and strange confrontations don't translate into animation. They have to be done by live actors. Animated TV shows already go over-the-top all the time. The movie was much better with live actors than it would have been animated, even with the same script and voices.