Children’s television isn’t likely going to be controversial, daring, or particularly groundbreaking, but certain shows acknowledge that they can impact the way their audience views the world. Luz: The Light of the Heart has a familiar Disney-esque plot of a child going on an adventure to learn more about her roots, but through that basic formula, the first Brazilian Netflix kid series takes the opportunity to respectfully portray the indigenous Kaingang community in their plot, who takes care of and is more knowledgeable about the natural land, and whose teachings may be acknowledged if Luz, potential land heiress, manages to find out the truth. There are some of the standard childish shenanigans, like privileged boarding school drama that occurs when Luz enters the school, but overall, Luz: The Light of the Heart isn’t a bad choice if you’re looking for something to watch with children.
Synopsis
Raised by a kind Kaingang family, adventurous young schoolgirl Luz launches a quest with her firefly companion to learn the truth about her roots.
Storyline
After being raised by a kind Kaingang family for nine years, Luz follows the light of her father’s firefly amulet to learn the truth of what happened to her biological family.
TLDR
Firefly amulet with serendipitous glowing times aside, it’s more modern day mystery than full-blown fantasy, but it’s still as child-friendly and is a decent enough choice for kids.
What stands out
Luz: The Light of the Heart has the kind of child-friendly fantastical plot that we’re all familiar with, but it stands out with the way it integrates the indigenous Kaingang community into its story. The show doesn’t lazily depict certain stereotypes– the community is an integral part of the story, with their own plotline and interest and culture driving the story.
