When it comes to YouTube, animations have become a common sight. From story time animations to speed drawings and short films, there’s no shortage of animated content. However, there are some indie projects that manage to stand out and make a name for themselves. One such project is Hazbin Hotel, a show that started as little animation videos and comics on a YouTube channel. Created by Vivienne Medrano, also known as Vivziepop, Hazbin Hotel gained popularity and was picked up by A24. It is now streaming on Amazon’s Prime Video, promising viewers an incredible experience.
The pilot episode of Hazbin Hotel was released in October 2019 and quickly gained traction, accumulating 54 million views by early February 2021. Now, five years later, the show has made its way to Prime Video with eight episodes in its first season and the promise of a second season. The storyline follows Charlie, the princess of Hell, as she tries to prevent the annual exterminations carried out by Heaven. Together with her girlfriend Vaggie, Charlie creates a hotel that aims to rehabilitate sinners and offer them a chance at redemption.
One of the highlights of Hazbin Hotel is its talented cast, which includes Broadway icons such as Erika Henningsen, Blake Roman, Kimiko Glenn, Alex Brightman, Jessica Vosk, Christian Borle, Jeremy Jordan, and James Monroe Iglehart. The show also features movie stars Stephanie Beatriz, Amir Talai, and voice acting legend Keith David.
One of the standout aspects of the show is its music and musical numbers, which have received critical acclaim. In fact, the music from Hazbin Hotel has even charted on the Billboard 200, with the show’s soundtrack reaching #18 and the song “Poison” reaching #23. Hazbin Hotel brings a fresh and remarkable approach to the musical genre and television in general, offering a unique experience. In a time where Disney has faced criticism for its declining quality, Hazbin Hotel takes inspiration and creates something new.
The storytelling in Hazbin Hotel is gripping and leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, craving more. The characters are lovable and instantly captivating, making it easy to become invested in their journeys. Additionally, the show introduces us to a compelling villain in Adam, who represents the first man on Earth from the Bible. Adam’s presence foreshadows the seven deadly sins and raises thought-provoking questions about what it takes to enter Heaven. The finale of the first season leaves viewers with a cliffhanger, setting up a potential villain for the second season.
While Hazbin Hotel has many positives, it is not without its flaws. One criticism is that the show introduces a large number of characters all at once. While most of them are memorable, it can feel overwhelming to keep track of them and their individual stories. Another complaint is the pacing of the show. With such a complex and rich story, eight episodes may not be enough to fully explore all the different territories in Hell and delve into the intricacies of the various realms and their policies.
Overall, Hazbin Hotel is a must-watch show that guarantees a thrilling and entertaining experience. Its music, characters, and storytelling will leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something fresh and exciting, especially if you’re disappointed with Disney’s recent movies and remakes, Hazbin Hotel is the perfect choice. Come check into the Hazbin Hotel and prepare for a hellishly good time.
