Beat Bugs
| Beat Bugs | |
|---|---|
| Genre | |
| Created by | Josh Wakely |
| Directed by | Josh Wakely |
| Voices of |
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| Opening theme | "All You Need Is Love" performed by Andy Bull, Gossling, iOTA, Lisa Mitchell and Sullivan. |
| Ending theme | "All You Need Is Love" |
| Composer(s) |
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| Country of origin |
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| No. of seasons | 2 |
| No. of episodes | 26 |
| Production | |
| Executive producer(s) |
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| Producer(s) |
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| Running time | 12 minutes |
| Production company(s) |
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| Release | |
| Original network | |
| Picture format | 576i (SDTV) |
| Audio format | Stereo |
| Original release | August 3, 2016 – present |
| External links | |
| Website | |
Beat Bugs is an Australian-Canadian animated children's television series, created by Josh Wakely, and produced by Grace: A Storytelling Company and Thunderbird Entertainment for Netflix. The series is centred around five young bugs who live in an overgrown suburban backyard and learn life lessons while having adventures. Wakely acquired worldwide rights from Sony/ATV Music Publishing to a catalogue of music by the Beatles to feature in the series. The program features versions of songs by the popular rock group, performed by contemporary recording artists and interwoven into the narrative.
Beat Bugs was produced in association with Beyond Entertainment, Atomic Cartoons and the Seven Network, an investor of the program. The series was first made available worldwide on Netflix on August 3, 2016 after premiering in Australia exclusively on 7TWO on July 25, 2016.
The program received an AWGIE Award in animation for an episode script in 2016. The second season premiered on November 18, 2016 on Netflix and November 16, 2016 on 7TWO.
Plot
Beat Bugs is a series aimed at five to seven year olds, set in an overgrown suburban backyard, which serves as an environment that five young bug friends regularly explore.[1][2] To the bugs, the backyard is known as "Village Green". Songs by the Beatles, such as "Come Together" and "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds", are interwoven into the narrative of the episodes.[2] These versions are performed by popular recording artists such as Pink and Sia. The songs often influence the life lessons that the young bugs learn.[2][3]
Wakely described the series as "about teaching kids, but with a bit of humour and not in a patronising way." He stated that the message of the song "All You Need is Love" was the main idea he wanted to portray.[1][3][4]
Characters
The series revolves around five young bugs, known as the "Beat Bugs", who are all friends and live in the backyard together.
Jay (Ashleigh Ball) is a curious, ambitious and impulsive beetle. He often desires to try out new things, and his mischievous interest in the world frequently leads him into trouble.[3][5] Crick (Lili Beaudoin) is an inventor who is very intelligent and creative. His inventive mind helps him create devices which help the group out, however sometimes he struggles to see the value in his work.[6] Walter Walrus (Charles Demers) is a slug with a big heart and exceptional storytelling skills. He is very theatrical and loves performing, although he can be highly emotional and sometimes his fear and self-absorption can get in his way.[7]
Buzz (Rebecca Husain), a fruit fly, is the youngest of the bugs and is very optimistic and enthusiastic. However, sometimes she is easily scared or experiences sadness, and does not always think for herself.[3][8] Kumi (Erin Mathews) is an imaginative ladybug with a zest for life who is very protective of her friends. She is confident and the natural leader of the group, and has developed her own dance-involved variety of martial arts.[3][9]
The bugs are fascinated by the humans ("Gigants") who live in the "Big House" at the edge of the backyard. The youngest human of the house is a girl named Julia (introduced in "I've Just Seen a Face"), who Jay seems to relate to.[5]
Production
Conception
Beat Bugs was created by Josh Wakely who in 2014, under his US-Australian production company Grace, acquired worldwide rights from Sony/ATV Music Publishing to a catalogue of music by the Beatles.[10][11] The music was to be used for a children's animated series in development to be entitled Beat Bugs, which would tell the story of young bugs learning life lessons set to songs by the popular rock group.[11] The publishers liked Wakely's vision of bringing the classic songs to a new audience of children with original stories written around them.[1] Managing director of Sony/ATV Damian Trotter stated, "the idea of opening up the single greatest music catalogue of the 20th Century to the next generation is something we are particularly excited about".[10][11] The music acquired was the Lennon-McCartney "Northern Songs" catalogue.[12] The deal reportedly cost an estimated $10 million.[13]
Wakely, an Australian writer and producer who grew up as a fan of the Beatles, stated that he never considered using any other artist's music for the series.[3][12][14] He said, "people in years to come will talk about the Beatles like we talk about Shakespeare."[14] Wakely spent three years originally working on the show before acquiring the rights to the Beatles' music, and by this time, he had already conceived all of the episodes and characters.[4] Of the characters, he said, "They have lived in my head for so long that I don’t have their date of conception".[1] Wakely sold the project to Netflix as a global distribution partner.[15] The Seven Network in Australia was also an investor of the production.[16]
Daniel Johns, former singer of Silverchair, arranged and produced the music for the series as musical director.[17] He stated, "It’s a dream job to go into the studio and dissect all of the Beatles’ music".[1] Johns and Wakely had previously worked together on a musical short film which Wakely wrote and directed.[1] Wakely was closely involved in the production, arranging and mixing of the music.[18]
More than 1000 people were involved in the production of the show, including a worldwide team of writers and animators in Australia, Los Angeles and Vancouver. Wakely described the process as a full-time job lasting three years.[1] Vancouver's Atomic Cartoons created the 3D animation for the series.[2] By the show's premiere, Wakely had spent six years working on the program from its conception.[1][4] It wasn't originally planned to produce Beat Bugs in Australia until Beyond Entertainment allowed Wakely to do so.[4]
Release
The initial order of 52 segments (26 half-hour episodes) was split into two 13-episode seasons for distribution.[4][15][19] The episodes were a given a provisional classification of C (children's) in Australia over 2014–15.[19]
All episodes from Season 1 became available worldwide on Netflix on August 3, 2016.[3][12] Prior to its premiere, on July 27, 2016, the series was renewed for a second season to debut later in the year.[20] The first season premiered exclusively in Australia on 7TWO on July 25, 2016.[21]
Season 2 was released through Netflix on November 18, 2016.[12][14] The second season also debuted on 7TWO on November 16, 2016.[22]
Beat Bugs received a 2016 AWGIE Award in animation for the episode script of "Yellow Submarine", written by Wakely.[23] The episodes "Hey Bulldog", written by Kate Mulvany, and "Ticket to Ride", by Erica Harrison, were also nominated.[24]
Episodes
Series overview
| Season | Episodes | Originally released | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 13 | August 3, 2016 | |||
| 2 | 13 | November 18, 2016 | |||
List of episodes
Season 1 (2016)
| No. overall | No. in season | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1a | 1a | "Help" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely Story: Josh Wakely | July 25, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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After refusing help from his friends, a stubborn Jay launches himself across the backyard using Crick's latest catapult invention, landing in a large glass jam jar. Trapped, Jay calls for his friends, who search the village to find him. When he is freed, Jay learns the importance of accepting help. Inspired by the song "Help!". | |||||
| 1b | 1b | "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" | Josh Wakely | John Armstrong | July 25, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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After Kumi tells a scary story, Buzz has trouble sleeping, so the Beat Bugs take her to see a sleep doctor, Lucy the Dragonfly. Crick's grasp of science is opposed when Lucy cures Buzz of her nightmares by simply helping her find her imaginative safe place. Inspired by the song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". Guest starring Pink.[13] | |||||
| 2a | 2a | "I Am the Walrus" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely | July 25, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Walter tells the story of when he moved in with the Beat Bugs. He recalls how he made a fool of himself when he first approached the bugs, and how he remembered his Uncle Tusk's advice of believing in yourself and declaring your uniqueness. When he acted like himself, he had no trouble in making new friends. Inspired by the song "I Am the Walrus". | |||||
| 2b | 2b | "I'm a Loser" | Josh Wakely | Brian Hartigan | July 25, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Morgs the stick insect is tired of constantly being mistaken for a stick, and is worried that his old friend Katter, who is now a butterfly, will think he is a loser. The bugs help Morgs find his confidence, and in the end, he finds that Katter is impressed with the stick insect that he is. Inspired by the song "I'm a Loser". Guest starring James Corden.[13] | |||||
| 3a | 3a | "Come Together" | Josh Wakely | Michael Stokes | July 26, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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When Walter kicks the Beat Bugs out of his house for playing too carelessly, Crick has the idea of building a treehouse for the bugs to all come together to play in. The arguing friends are brought together over designing and building the treehouse as a group. Inspired by the song "Come Together". | |||||
| 3b | 3b | "Rain" | Josh Wakely | Joshua Mapleston Story: Josh Wakely | July 26, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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After a three day downpour of rain of in the village, the bugs all come up with plans to change the weather. But when they can't stop the rain, Boris the frog shows the friends how enjoyable the miserable weather can really be. Inspired by the song "Rain". Guest starring Aloe Blacc.[13] | |||||
| 4a | 4a | "Good Day Sunshine" | Josh Wakely | Keith Thompson Story: Josh Wakely | July 26, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs struggle to stay warm through a prolonged winter, with Mr Sun away on vacation and deciding to extend his stay. When the stored supply of sun-powered electricity runs out, Crick tries to invent a way to create more electricity, but is unsuccessful at first. The bugs create enough power to send a message to Mr Sun asking him to return, which he does. Inspired by the song "Good Day Sunshine". Guest starring Robbie Williams.[13] | |||||
| 4b | 4b | "Sun King" | Josh Wakely | Erica Harrison Story: Josh Wakely | July 26, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs disuss how they should use an ice cream wrapper which has been dropped in the backyard. Buzz is saddened when she cannot think of any ideas, and decides to go on a journey of self-discovery to find her special talent. After inadvertently helping out some bugs in the village, Buzz realises she has the special talent of brightening others' days. Inspired by the song "Sun King". | |||||
| 5a | 5a | "Penny Lane" | Josh Wakely | Kate Mulvany Story: Josh Wakely | July 27, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Crick feels as if he is being ignored and unnoticed, so the Beat Bugs plan to create a place for him to feel free to express himself. Using pennies found in the backyard, the friends construct an auditorium called Penny Lane. Crick gains the confidence to speak out and decides that Penny Lane should be a place for all of the Beat Bugs to share. Inspired by the song "Penny Lane". | |||||
| 5b | 5b | "Birthday" | Josh Wakely | Michelle Offen & Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | July 27, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Kumi, Walter and Buzz plan a surprise party for Jay and Crick's birthday, and send the pair away while they prepare. Jay and Crick work as a team to find their way to back the party, which they suspect is being thrown for them. Inspired by the song "Birthday". | |||||
| 6a | 6a | "I've Just Seen a Face" | Josh Wakely | Erica Harrison Story: Josh Wakely | July 27, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Jay is fascinated to find out who lives in the Big House, so goes exploring. He is discovered by a human named Julia, whom he develops a strong sense of affection for after seeing her up-close. The Beat Bugs don't believe his story until they see the girl's face for themselves. Inspired by the song "I've Just Seen a Face". | |||||
| 6b | 6b | "Magical Mystery Tour" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | July 27, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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A showman grashopper named Jasper invites the Beat Bugs on a Magical Mystery Tour, which doesn't turn out as expected. The adventure proves to be a ride in a bug container of Julia's, which the young human takes to her class as a science project. She later returns the bugs to the backyard. Inspired by the song "Magical Mystery Tour". Guest starring Eddie Vedder.[13] | |||||
| 7a | 7a | "When I'm 64" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely | July 28, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs find an old alarm clock which they mistake for a time machine, Jay is eager to test it out and steps inside, before the clock is thrown around in the backyard. When he exits, Jay believes he has travelled to the future and is sixty-four years old, getting a glimpse at what his life might one day be like. Inspired by the song "When I'm Sixty-Four". | |||||
| 7b | 7b | "Doctor Robert" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely | July 28, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs visit Dr. Robert for a check-up, without Buzz, who is too scared and refuses to go. After an encounter with the backyard cat in which she is sneezed on, Buzz is taken to Dr Robert and learns the importance of facing your fears and visiting doctors. Inspired by the song "Doctor Robert". | |||||
| 8a | 8a | "Ticket to Ride" | Josh Wakely | Erica Harrison[24] Story: Josh Wakely | July 29, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs use an old bicycle wheel to create a carnival ride in the style of a ferris wheel. But when Kumi is the only one who keeps her ticket safe, she rides alone, and the others learn the importance of being responsible before having fun. The friends work together to find new tickets to join Kumi on the ride. Inspired by the song "Ticket to Ride". | |||||
| 8b | 8b | "Getting Better" | Josh Wakely | Deborah Jarvis | July 29, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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When Dr. Robert goes on vacation, the Beat Bugs inadvertently start feeling under the weather. Tired of answering his friend's requests, Crick invents a robot doctor to look after them. The robot is at first successful, but malfunctions after the bugs take the invention for granted. Inspired by the song "Getting Better". | |||||
| 9a | 9a | "Being for the Benefit of Mr Kite" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | August 1, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Mr. Kite is detached from his string and crash lands into the backyard. Crick operates on his broken structure and the bugs throw a flying festival to help get him back in the air. The kite struggles to perform at first until he is reunited with his flying partner Julia. Inspired by the song "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite!". | |||||
| 9b | 9b | "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away" | Josh Wakely | Katherine Thomson Story: Josh Wakely | August 1, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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At Kumi's birthday party, Walter goes overboard trying to help her win all of the games. Feeling his efforts have been unappreciated, he storms off and instead puts on a play at Penny Lane in the hope of finding new friends. The Beat Bugs come to watch, and let Walter know that he is loved. Inspired by the song "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away". | |||||
| 10a | 10a | "Day Tripper" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | August 2, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Connie the cicada has a list of things to do while she is above the ground, including visiting the Big House. Crick hurries to finish his latest invention to help take her there when he remembers cicadas can only spend one day above ground. While the invention doesn't succeed, Connie makes it to the house on her own. Inspired by the song "Day Tripper". | |||||
| 10b | 10b | "In My Life" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely | August 2, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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At her birthday party, Katter the caterpillar doesn't appear to be enjoying herself. Feeling sad and tired, she decides to go and rest. Katter sleeps for two days before emerging from her chrysalis as a butterfly. The Beat Bugs learn that while things may change, some things like their friendship will always remain. Inspired by the song "In My Life". Guest starring Frances.[13] | |||||
| 11a | 11a | "Why Don't We Do It in the Road?" | Josh Wakely | Kym Goldsworthy Story: Josh Wakely | August 3, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs find a toy car and decide to take it onto the driveway of the backyard ("the Road"), which has been known to be dangerous for bugs. When the friends become trapped under a real human's car, Walter comes to their rescue. Inspired by the song "Why Don't We Do It in the Road?". | |||||
| 11b | 11b | "The Word" | Josh Wakely | Jennifer Daley | August 3, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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A stalk-eyes fly named Melvin, who loves games, lures the Beat Bugs into his home and keeps them captive. He sets the friends a challenging puzzle which makes them feel trapped. The bugs teach Melvin the right way to be friends with others. Inspired by the song "The Word". Guest starring The Shins.[13] | |||||
| 12a | 12a | "Glass Onion" | Josh Wakely | Karen Moonah | August 4, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The bugs find a Christmas tree bauble which they believe is a glass onion, and argue over who should keep it. Blackbird confiscates the ornament due to the fighting, leading the bugs to attempt to retrieve it from her nest. However, when the bauble falls and breaks, Doris the spider makes something new with the pieces. Inspired by the song "Glass Onion". | |||||
| 12b | 12b | "Honey Pie" | Josh Wakely | Michael Stokes | August 4, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Granny Bee's memory is beginning to fade and she can no longer remember the recipe to her famous honey pie. The Beat Bugs recreate one of her old cooking shows in the hope that stardom will jog her memory. In the end, a food fight helps her remember. Inspired by the song "Honey Pie". Guest starring Wesley Schultz of The Lumineers.[13] | |||||
| 13a | 13a | "Carry That Weight" | Josh Wakely | Deborah Jarvis | August 5, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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When Julia's bike destroys the ants' nest, Crick invites the colony of ants to move in with the Beat Bugs. After they are troublesome to live with, the bugs help the ants return to their home, by moving the bike and rebuilding the nest. Inspired by the song "Carry That Weight". | |||||
| 13b | 13b | "Blackbird" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | August 5, 2016 (7TWO) August 3, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs tell the story of when they found Blackbird in the night with a broken wing. They recall how she had crashed into Mr. Moonlight, lost in her daydreams, and how they tried to help their friend fly again. The audience listening are inspired by the story of Blackbird's recovery. Inspired by the song "Blackbird". Guest starring Sia.[13] | |||||
Season 2 (2016)
| No. overall | No. in season | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14a | 1a | "Yellow Submarine" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely[24] | November 16, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Beat Bugs go on an expedition to find somewhere they've never gone before. When the sprinkler floods the backyard, the friends build a yellow submarine, using an old soda bottle, to find their way home. The bugs learn that the world looks different depending on how you view it. Inspired by the song "Yellow Submarine". | |||||
| 14b | 1b | "I Call Your Name" | Josh Wakely | Michael Stokes | November 16, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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After a heated game of bugball, Walter and Jay have an argument about their gameplay, and refuse to talk to each other. The others stage an elaborate ruse to help them make amends. The pair resolve their differences and learn to play as a team. Inspired by the song "I Call Your Name". | |||||
| 15a | 2a | "With a Little Help From My Friends" | Josh Wakely | Keith Thompson Story: Josh Wakely | November 17, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Buzz is inspired by Walter to create a stage spectacular of her own, designed for all of the Beat Bugs to enjoy. However, when she won't accept help from anyone, the show doesn't go as planned. Buzz learns the importance of getting help from friends when they help her stage an even better performance. Inspired by the song "With a Little Help From My Friends". | |||||
| 15b | 2b | "Get Back" | Josh Wakely | Joshua Mapleston Story: Josh Wakely | November 17, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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After Jay accidentally ruins his friends' work at the village art show, he runs away to a farm, feeling embarrassed and ashamed. The bugs go after Jay to let him know they forgive his mistake. He apologizes and returns home. Inspired by the song "Get Back". | |||||
| 16a | 3a | "Mr Moonlight" | Josh Wakely | Melanie Alexander Story: Josh Wakely | November 18, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Crick recalls the time that Mr. Moonlight disappeared after believing that the Beat Bugs liked Mr. Sun more than him. With the night left in total darkness, the bugs banded together to let the moon know that he was appreciated. Mr. Moonlight returned to the village, and hasn't gone away since. Inspired by the song "Mr Moonlight". | |||||
| 16b | 3b | "There's a Place" | Josh Wakely | Trent O'Donnell Story: Josh Wakely | November 18, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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When Crick doesn't win any medals at the annual Bug Games, he feels disappointed and untalented. But when the backyard cat threatens to ruin the award ceremony, Crick saves the day using his own special talents and wins the Bug of the Games award. Inspired by the song "There's a Place". | |||||
| 17a | 4a | "We Can Work it Out" | Josh Wakely | Deborah Jarvis | November 21, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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During a mountain climbing competition, Jay and Walter have a disagreement when Walter believes Jay is pushing him too hard and Jay thinks Walter isn't trying hard enough. Jay then tries to climb the mountain without his partner, but when he has an accidental fall, he and Walter learn how to use each other's talents to work as a team. Inspired by the song "We Can Work It Out". | |||||
| 17b | 4b | "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | November 21, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Walter longs for a performer for a friend, and feels at home when the circus, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, comes to town. Walter is invited to assist in the ringmaster duties, and, impressed with his talent, Sgt. Pepper asks him to take over the role permanently. Walter decides to leave with the circus, but is in turn convinced by the Beat Bugs to stay. Inspired by the song "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band". Guest starring Rod Stewart.[13] | |||||
| 18a | 5a | "Christmas Time is Here Again" | Josh Wakely | Melanie Alexander Story: Josh Wakely | November 22, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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It's Christmas time and Buzz has her heart set on meeting Christmas Beetle, after she sends him a letter requesting a visit. The Beat Bugs try to keep Buzz awake on Christmas eve to help her fulfill her wish. They all fall asleep and miss seeing Christmas Beetle, however in the morning, Buzz tracks down her hero and her wish comes true. Inspired by the song "Christmas Time (Is Here Again)". | |||||
| 18b | 5b | "Drive My Car" | Josh Wakely | Jeff Biederman | November 22, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The bugs meet a remote-controlled car named Dee-structor, who has no idea who controls him, and is saddened by this lack of power and choice. Crick breaks off the car's antenna and allows Dee-structor to finally take control of himself. Inspired by the song "Drive My Car". Guest starting Chris Cornell.[13] | |||||
| 19a | 6a | "Tomorrow Never Knows" | Josh Wakely | Barbara Haynes | November 23, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Julia loses her rainbow brooch in the backyard and the bugs set off to find it. Once Kumi spots it, the friends use the ornament as a boat to sail back to the Big House across puddles of rain. They then leave the brooch in the garden for Julia to find. Inspired by the song "Tomorrow Never Knows". | |||||
| 19b | 6b | "Nowhere Man" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | November 23, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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On their way to go camping, the Beat Bugs lose their map and become lost. While searching for the map, the friends meet the elusive Nowhere Man, who turns out to be a worm named Warren, who is not as scary as he once seemed. Warren helps the bugs find their way home. Inspired by the song "Nowhere Man". | |||||
| 20a | 7a | "Strawberry Fields Forever" | Josh Wakely | Erica Harrison Story: Josh Wakely | November 24, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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While in the strawberry fields, the bugs warn a trio of hungry mynah birds not to eat too much, as they fear there might not be enough strawberries to last forever. The friends think of a plan, involving a scarecrow, to send the birds away and save the fields. Inspired by the song "Strawberry Fields Forever". | |||||
| 20b | 7b | "The Fool on the Hill" | Josh Wakely | Richard Clark | November 24, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The friends find a garden gnome on the hill which they believe is alive. Cockroach secretly pretends to be the gnome by giving the ornament a voice, in an attempt to scam the Beat Bugs into finding food for him. Sceptical, Kumi discovers Cockroach and tricks him into revealing his deceit. Inspired by the song "The Fool on the Hill". | |||||
| 21a | 8a | "And Your Bird Can Sing" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Joshua Mapleston Story: Josh Wakely | November 25, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Jay decides to visit the Big House for his holiday while the other bugs explore the Wonders of the Village. However, when neither of the expeditions go as planned, Blackbird helps Jay finally see the house up close. Inspired by the song "And Your Bird Can Sing". Guest starring Regina Spektor.[13] | |||||
| 21b | 8b | "I'll Follow the Sun" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Joshua Mapleston Story: Josh Wakely | November 25, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Kumi is upset when she finds out that Blackbird's wing has healed and she will be leaving the garden to rejoin her flock. Kumi tries to get her friend to stay, but later realises that Blackbird belongs with her flock and she must say goodbye. Inspired by the song "I'll Follow the Sun". Guest starring Jennifer Hudson.[13] | |||||
| 22a | 9a | "Hello Goodbye" | Josh Wakely | Joshua Mapleston Story: Josh Wakely | November 28, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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A human drops his mobile phone in the backyard, leaving the bugs fascinated by the device. They try to work out what it is, before Kumi inadvertently answers a call, helping the friends to learn what the phone can do. The human finds his phone and the bugs decide to make their own communication device. Inspired by the song "Hello, Goodbye". | |||||
| 22b | 9b | "Got to Get You Into My Life" | Josh Wakely | Jennifer Daley | November 28, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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Feeling like he doesn't share any interests with his friends, Walter he finds comfort in "befriending" an inanimate ball. The other bugs discover that the ball is a lost toy of Bulldog's which has been missing. Walter returns the ball to the dog and reunites with his real friends. Inspired by the song "Got to Get You Into My Life". | |||||
| 23a | 10a | "Eleanor Rigby" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | November 29, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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A duo of filmmaking flies arrive to capture footage of an elusive creature, rumoured to be named Eleanor Rigby, who has been roaming the village. In a moment of truth, the figure turns out to be Kumi, but the filmmakers are disheartened that they have not found the "real" Eleanor Rigby. The flies vow to continue their search. Inspired by the song "Eleanor Rigby". Guest starring Of Monsters and Men.[13] | |||||
| 23b | 10b | "I'm So Tired" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | November 29, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
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The Mudwasps are renovating their home and the noise is keeping the Beat Bugs awake at night, so the friends volunteer to lend a hand in the constructions. The bugs make a mess of the house, but the Mudwasps love it anyway, leaving them all free to get some sleep. Inspired by the song "I'm So Tired". | |||||
| 24a | 11a | "Hey Bulldog" | Josh Wakely | Kate Mulvany[24] | November 30, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
Crick uses a speech decoding machine to find out more about his new friend Bulldog. The bugs discover he is a stray and has dreams of becoming a sheepdog. The humans of the Big House decide to keep Bulldog as a pet, who is beyond pleased to become a guard dog for the family. Inspired by the song "Hey Bulldog". Guest starring James Bay.[13] | |||||
| 24b | 11b | "I'm Happy Just to Dance with You" | Josh Wakely | Josh Wakely & Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | November 30, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
The bugs find an old chess table top in the garbage and decide to use it as the dance floor for a dress-up dance party. Milli Pede and Morgs are hesitant to attend, but Jay helps them find the confidence to step outside of their comfort zones. Inspired by the song "I'm Happy Just to Dance with You". Guest starring Tori Kelly.[13] | |||||
| 25a | 12a | "It Won't Be Long" | Josh Wakely | Trent O'Donnell Story: Josh Wakely | December 1, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
A human has been gardening in the backyard, and Buzz and Morgs fall into a deep hole in the ground. The other bugs plan to use Doris's rope ladder to get them out, but before they can come to the rescue, Buzz discovers a tunnel which leads the pair out of the hole. Inspired by the song "It Won't Be Long". | |||||
| 25b | 12b | "Any Time at All" | Josh Wakely | Tamara Asmar | December 1, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
Buzz has an encounter with Meow the cat which leaves her too scared to go outside. The bugs give her a device allowing her to call for their help at any time. However, when Buzz calls upon the bugs' help too much, her friends fail to come to her rescue when a real emergency strikes, leaving Buzz to face the cat alone. Inspired by the song "Any Time at All". | |||||
| 26a | 13a | "Please Mr. Postman" | Josh Wakely | Cleon Prineas Story: Josh Wakely | December 2, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
Buzz hurts her ankle on the way to the beach and is ordered to bed rest. With Postman Bee's help, the bugs send a letter to Blackbird asking her to help cheer up Buzz with a visit, as she once had a broken wing herself. Blackbird arrives and spends some time with the bugs at the beach. Inspired by the song "Please Mr. Postman" | |||||
| 26b | 13b | "Across the Universe" | Josh Wakely | Keith Thompson Story: Josh Wakely | December 2, 2016 (7TWO) November 18, 2016 (Netflix) |
|
The bugs' home is at stake when the humans of the house decide to pave the backyard with concrete. The friends float in bubbles up to the Big House to ask Julia to save the garden. As a result, the young girl hears the bugs and convinces her mother to leave the backyard as it is. Inspired by the song "Across the Universe". | |||||
Reception
Beat Bugs generally received favourable reviews. Critics praised the concept of reimagining Beatles songs for a young audience.[25][13] Reporting for Common Sense Media, Emily Ashby said "this unique series borrows some of rock-and-roll's most recognizable lyrics to help tell its gentle stories and teach excellent life lessons", commending it as a series for parents and children to watch together.[26] David Knox of TV Tonight praised the music for "bursting with optimism and exuberance", while describing the animation as "an alluring, inviting feast".[27] A reviewer for the Daily Telegraph applauded how the series presents children with "an influence that lasts beyond the screen time".[28]
Ivan Radford of VODzilla.co noted that the program as a whole "is something closer to a visual album than a series", and stated that the show's theme song of "All You Need is Love" provides "an upbeat sentiment that gives an overall theme and identity to this strange universe". However, Radford expressed that the main characters are not always fully developed.[29]
The series also received some negative comments. Jordan Runtagh of Decider disliked the character of Jay, stating "I find the lack of comeuppance for his behavior distressing". He stated the music of the series is "forgettable, but inoffensive", however added that the songs are incorporated into the episode narratives "with grace and skill".[30] Decider''s Jessica Jernigan of described the series as "disheartening and dull because there’s so little art in the transformation of Beatles lyrics into stories", suggesting that the songs were already appropriate for children "without visual or narrative contextualization."[31]
Other media
Soundtracks
The first soundtrack to the show, "Beat Bugs: The Complete Season One" was released on online music-streaming service Apple Music on August 3, 2016.[32] The release featured all of the songs performed by the guest artists in the first season, compiled on one soundtrack. It was only available exclusively on Apple Music until November 4, 2016.[15][32] The record was released by Republic Records and Universal Music.[17] Melodia Music was formed by the show's production to release music from Beat Bugs and other related productions.[18]
A new compilation album, "Beat Bugs: The Best of Seasons 1 & 2" was released physically and digitally on November 4, 2016. This was the first time a selection of the music from the first season was available for purchase, and included songs from the second season ahead of its premiere.[18] "Beat Bugs: The Complete Season One" was also made available on iTunes for the first time.[18]
"Beat Bugs: The Complete Season Two" was made available on iTunes on November 18, 2016 at the same time as its Netflix premiere.[18][32]
Awards and nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Recipient | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | AWGIE Awards | Animation | "Hey Bulldog" – Kate Mulvany | Nominated | [24][23] |
| "Ticket to Ride" – Erica Harrison | Nominated | ||||
| "Yellow Submarine" – Josh Wakely | Won | ||||
| AACTA Awards | Best Children's Television Series | Beat Bugs | Pending | [33] | |
References
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Shedden, Iain (July 23, 2016). "Beatles revived for kids TV show Beat Bugs by Daniel Johns, Josh Wakely". The Australian. News Corp Australia. Retrieved August 1, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 Altman, Randi (September 22, 2016). "Atomic Cartoons helps brings Beatles music to kids for Netflix's Beat Bugs". Post Perspective. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Bentley, Rick. "New Netflix series Beat Bugs uses The Beatles music to inspire adventures". The Fresno Bee. The McClatchy Company. Retrieved November 15, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Manning, James (July 19, 2016). "Beat Bugs: How a young Aussie writer landed rights to 300+ Beatles songs". MediaWeek. Retrieved December 2, 2016.
- 1 2 "Jay Beat Bugs". Yahoo!7 TV. July 4, 2016. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- ↑ "Crick Beat Bugs". Yahoo!7 TV. July 4, 2016. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- ↑ "Walter Beat Bugs". Yahoo!7 TV. July 4, 2016. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- ↑ "Buzz Beat Bugs". Yahoo!7 TV. July 4, 2016. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- ↑ "Kumi Beat Bugs". Yahoo!7 TV. July 4, 2016. Retrieved November 11, 2016.
- 1 2 "GRACE Productions secures Beatles song rights for animated series Beat Bugs". Flickering Myth. March 12, 2014. Retrieved November 15, 2016.
- 1 2 3 "Animated Children's Series 'Beat Bugs' To Feature Beatles … Music That Is". Deadline. March 11, 2014. Retrieved November 10, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 Lo, Ricky (August 1, 2016). "Josh Wakely: Bitten by the Beatle bug". The Philippine Star. PhilStar Daily, Inc. Retrieved November 14, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Cooper, Leonie (July 28, 2016). "The Beatles-tastic Beat Bugs Might Be The Coolest Kids TV Show Ever". NME. Time Inc. UK. Retrieved November 21, 2016.
- 1 2 3 Carson, Sarah (August 3, 2016). "Beat Bugs creator Josh Wakely on how he got access to the Beatles' song catalogue". Radio Times. Immediate Media Company. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- 1 2 3 Porch, Scott (August 3, 2016). "How Beat Bugs Sells the Beatles to a New Generation". Rolling Stone. Wenner Media LLC. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ↑ Knox, David (February 11, 2016). "'Beat Bugs coming to Presto". TV Tonight. Retrieved November 16, 2016.
- 1 2 Naughton, Julia (July 19, 2016). "Beat Bugs: Kids Telly Rocks Out With Eddie Vedder, James Corden". The Huffington Post Australia. Retrieved November 12, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 ""Beat Bugs: Best of Seasons 1 & 2" is available today". U Music. November 4, 2016. Retrieved November 12, 2016.
- 1 2 "Programs granted C and P classification - 2014-2015" (Word). Australian Communications and Media Authority. Retrieved November 12, 2016.
- ↑ Ferreira, Victoria (July 27, 2016). "Get Ready for Beat Bugs! Netflix Announces New Guest Artists, Renews Series for Second Season". Netflix Media Center. Netflix. Retrieved November 12, 2016.
- ↑ Knox, David (July 12, 2016). "Airdate: Beat Bugs". TV Tonight. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ↑ Knox, David (November 2, 2016). "Returning: Beat Bugs". TV Tonight. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- 1 2 Knox, David (15 October 2016). "AWGIE Awards 2016: winners". TV Tonight. Retrieved 10 November 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Knox, David (1 August 2016). "AWGIE Awards 2016: nominees". TV Tonight. Retrieved 10 November 2016.
- ↑ Gray, Chris (November 16, 2016). "Raising a Toddler the Beat Bugs Way". Houston Press. Voice Media Group. Retrieved November 17, 2016.
- ↑ Ashby, Emily (2016). "Beat Bugs TV Review". Common Sense Media. Retrieved November 14, 2016.
- ↑ Knox, David (July 16, 2016). "Beat Bugs". TV Tonight. Retrieved November 14, 2016.
- ↑ "Beat Bugs review: adventure set to an all-star soundtrack". The Daily Telegraph. September 5, 2016. Retrieved November 27, 2016.
- ↑ Radford, Ivan (August 2, 2016). "Netflix UK TV review: Beat Bugs". VODzilla.co. Retrieved December 2, 2016.
- ↑ Runtagh, Jordan (August 11, 2016). "10 questions Beatles fans will have about Netflix's animated series Beat Bugs". Decider. NYP Holdings, Inc. Retrieved November 14, 2016.
- ↑ Jernigan, Jessica (August 8, 2016). "Beat Bugs makes the regrettable decision to interpret the lyrics of the Beatles literally". Decider. NYP Holdings, Inc. Retrieved November 14, 2016.
- 1 2 3 Thomas, Leah (August 3, 2016). "The Beat Bugs soundtrack is full of epic Beatles covers you won't want to miss". Bustle.com. Retrieved November 12, 2016.
- ↑ Knox, David (27 October 2016). "AACTA Awards 2016: nominations". TV Tonight. Retrieved 10 November 2016.