City of Ghosts - Press Image from NYICFF

City of Ghosts, a new Netflix family series, released the same day as the opening of the New York International Children's Film Festival which was perfect timing for a spectacular way to kick-off the festival!

City of Ghosts - Netflix Series Review

City of Ghosts on Netflix presents an approachable and entertaining look at diverse cultures in the neighborhoods of Los Angeles.  The Ghost Club led, by kids themselves, investigate strange happenings around neighborhood locales and, along the way, meet some very friendly ghosts who are excited to share their own cultural histories.  Bridging the past with the present, residents in Los Angeles develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for those who came before them and what makes their cultures special and unique.

City of Ghosts - Press Image from NYICFF

The series is presented documentary style, with characters often talking to you directly in the camera.  It's a unique way to tell a story to children, and one my son was drawn in to watching.  The first episode explores a haunting of a new restaurant and features references to familiar Japanese favorites like tutorial and even a little cooking demo on preparing gyoza.  With so much on TV these days being silly humor or mindless entertainment, City of Ghosts reminds us that children's series can be both educational AND entertaining.  

Another great animated choice from Netflix right now for families is Bigfoot Family!  Check out my review here.

About City of Ghosts (From Netflix)

Inspired by writer/director Elizabeth Ito’s experience growing up as a yonsei—or fourth-generation Japanese American—City of Ghosts is a documentary-style series featuring a charming blend of live-action settings populated by animated characters, many voiced by real residents recounting their own stories. Each episode follows the Ghost Club as they learn about the rich history of the multicultural neighborhoods of LA through encounters with friendly ghosts. City of Ghosts premieres on Netflix on March 5, 2021.