TV and Sympathy

Blast from the past: Rainbow Brite

As a child of the 80's, I was very much into Rainbow Brite. (Not, perhaps, quite as much as my mother, who insisted for years that she was Rainbow Brite. But I digress.) Like so many great cartoon characters, good old RB had

- a head grossly disproportionate to her body
- powers that originate from an accessory (in this case, a belt)
- a can-do attitude

She's described as "a girl in charge of changing the seasons and keeping the universe colorful," which she does with the help of her color-coordinated companions the Color Kids. (Indigo was my favorite, or maybe Shy Violet.) In order for her to be an appropriate role model for six-year-old girls, she also has a pony, Starlite. I'll ignore my irritation at things being spelled "-ite" when they should be spelled "-ight" to say that Starlite is one kick-ass equine.

Her exploits were also the subject of a feature film, Rainbow Brite and the Star Stealer. It almost goes without saying that it's quite the cinematic masterpiece. RB's interactions with the villainness from the film (cleverly named 'The Evil Princess') are chilling indeed. However, I found RB's relationship with Krys, her partner in the movie, a bit forced and unorganic. ;)

If you think you might recall Rainbow Brite's infectious prismatic power, check out Retro Junk for the theme song, which might help jog your memory.

Or for all things ROYGBIV, visit Rainbow Land.

posted by Veltman @ 12:01 PM