"Phineas and Ferb" was an animated Disney cartoon that ran from 2007 to 2015. And one of my favorite shows. The show focused on step-brothers, Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher, and their various attempts to make the most of summer. In addition, the boys' older sister Candace, tries to "bust" their shenanigans and their pet platypus Perry, foils the plans of the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz. Like many shows intended for kids, Phineas and Ferb brings so much more than mindless entertainment, but some really important life lessons, as well as some not-totally-appropriate jokes for children. I could go on and on about how much I love "Phineas and Ferb", but here are just nine reasons why it's not only for kids.
1. Imagination
The biggest part of "Phineas and Ferb" is that the boys have such a huge imagination that they can build anything that they can think of. Even the laws of physics don't stop them from creating amazing inventions. I think a really important message is that our imagination is a huge part of what keeps us young and we're limited by it. So it's really awesome to see that nothing stops them from trying to have the best summer ever.
2. Family
Family is really important on the show, I mean, it centers around two step-brothers. And none of the families on the show are the typical families either. The Flynn-Fletcher's are a blended family, Doofenshmirtz is divorced and sees his daughter alternate weekends, Phineas and Ferb's friend Isabella, is Mexican and Jewish and two other characters, Buford and Irving, seem to only have moms. And all of them seem to have really great familial relationships; for instance, Phineas, Ferb and Candace all call their parents mom and dad, even though only one parent is biologically theirs. Also, the Flynn-Fletchers are seen on numerous occasions going on trips and spending time together. This cartoon showed that even if a family isn't "normal," it can still be awesome.
3. Friendships
Friendship is also an important factor on the show. All three of the Flynn-Fletchers have really close friends that are always there for them. Candace is constantly seen talking to her friend Stacy, who gives her advice and sticks around despite sometimes being ignored. In many episodes, Phineas and Ferb are seen creating their day's activity around one or more of their friends. In at least four episodes, the boys help out Baljeet in succeeding in various things. And in one episode, all they do is make inventions to help out their friends. "Phineas and Ferb" really emphasizes the importance of friends, something that everyone needs a reminder of sometimes.
4. Romantic relationships
The portrayal of romantic relationships on the show has got to be one of my favorite things. Throughout most of the show, Candace has an obsessive crush on Jeremy, who eventually becomes her boyfriend. In a few episodes Candace tries to change aspects about herself in order for Jeremy to like her more, however, Jeremy accepts Candace for exactly who she is and tells her that. It's really refreshing to see a teenage relationship where no one expects the other to change for them. Another really good example of a romantic relationship is Lawrence and Linda Flynn-Fletcher. Most episodes find Phineas and Ferb's mom and dad out doing stuff with each other, whether it's going shopping or going on a date, their parents are shown in a healthy, loving relationship. What makes it so awesome is that clearly, this isn't the first committed relationship either of them have had and they were able to find love again.
5. Jokes/References
A number of the jokes and references on the show are just not something that the intended audience would get, which makes them that much better. It's always fun to re-watch the show and catch new references that you missed the first time. And it's also a really neat way to connect with a broader range of audience.
6. Doofenshmirtz
Doofenshmirtz's character is a nod to all the adults that just feel inadequate. To the younger audience his schemes and backstories are funny and enjoyable. When really, he has a pretty tough life. I mean he's divorced, doesn't really connect with his daughter, has a strained relationship with his parents and was constantly out shown by his younger brother, plus, he is consistently failing at his only goal in life. But the thing about Doofenshmirtz is, he never gives up. He is always trying to better his life and accomplish his goals. Throughout the series he is seen over-protecting his daughter, searching endlessly for a doll she wanted when she was seven (pictureed above), and eventually, giving up evil so his daughter can follow her dreams. He also is seen going on dates, trying to get back out there, and most importantly, he always has a new way to take over the tri-state area. Even thought Doofenshmirtz often feels inadequate, he never actually gives up.
7. Other adult themes
8. Candace (being a teenager)
Candace, in my opinion, encapsulates what it's like to be a teenage girl. She has so many insecurities and problems that she overcomes on a daily basis. Plus, she acts like a normal teenager! She goes to the mall, she hangs with her friends, she has a boyfriend, she has annoying brothers, and sometimes, like pictured, she gives up. Yeah, some things about her character are exaggerated, but overall, Candace shows what it's like being a teenager.
9. You can do anything you want
The most important lesson, in correlation to the imagination example, from "Phineas and Ferb" is that you can do anything. It doesn't matter how young or old you are, if you can dream, you can do it. This is such an important to teach not only kids, but adults too. And if you only take away one lesson from this show, I hope that it's this one.
"Phineas and Ferb" is an amazing show that has so much to offer. I could go on for days about the genius behind it and all the great aspects of it, but to get the full effect, you have to experience it yourself. And trust me, once you give this show a try, you'll see how it's not just for kids and fall in love with it too.
