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ReBoot was the first computer animated network series, and these episodes from its third season (1994) reveal how quickly computer visual effects has advanced. The designs look decidedly passé, and the motion-capture animation is limited and uneven. Enzo, the hero of ReBoot, is an adolescent guardian-in-training, fighting to protect the cyberworld from the evil virus Megabyte. Enzo's older sister, Dot Matrix, serves as commander of the defense forces; they both miss Bob, the hunky Guardian who disappeared at the end of the second season. Enzo's duties involve assuming roles in different games with AndrAIa, the obligatory spunky girl. The scenarios include heavy-handed send-ups of Pixar films, Warner Bros. cartoons, and the stained-glass knight in Young Sherlock Holmes. The filmmakers try to infuse these sci-fi adventures with the appeal of anime, but the timing and direction aren't strong enough to generate that level of excitement. ReBoot is more interesting as an example of early computer visual effects than as entertainment for modern kids. Although it is rated "suitable for all ages," violence, including suggestions of torture, grotesque imagery, and ethnic stereotypes, are inappropriate for children under 10. (Episodes: "To Mend and Defend," "Between a Raccoon and a Hard Place," "Firewall," and "Game Over.") --Charles Solomon
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