Anne of Green Gables

Right now you can watch Anne of Green Gables on streaming — and the writing holds up regardless of the format's reputation. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Megan Follows brings more to the role than the format usually demands. There is no real reason to keep putting it off.

There is a reason Anne of Green Gables keeps coming up in conversation. Anne of Green Gables treats animation as a medium, not a limitation. At the turn of the century on Prince Edward Island, Matthew Cuthbert and his sister Marilla decide to take on an orphan boy as help for their farm. But they get an unexpected jolt when they're mistakenly sent a girl instead: Anne Shirley. Megan Follows and Colleen Dewhurst lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1985. Anne of Green Gables uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. It rarely drops the ball, and when it does, it recovers fast.

Animation fans will appreciate the craft, but Anne of Green Gables works for viewers who do not typically seek out animation too. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Megan Follows's voice work is a big part of what makes it distinctive. If you have been sleeping on it because of the format, the format is not the thing here.