Funny or Die via Repost @imjoeimjoe
The Funny or Die series of Captain Planet starring Don Cheadle is a satirical and darkly comedic take on the classic 1990s environmental cartoon. The shorts feature Don Cheadle as an unhinged and authoritarian version of Captain Planet. Instead of being the eco-friendly hero from the original series, this version of Captain Planet takes an extreme and often violent approach to "saving" the environment.
Key Highlights:
Plot Premise: In the series, Captain Planet is summoned by the Planeteers to deal with environmental issues. However, instead of solving problems in a peaceful or constructive way, he uses his powers to terrorize and transform people into trees, animals, or other objects in his quest to "preserve nature."
Tone and Humor: The series is a parody filled with absurd and over-the-top humor. Cheadle plays Captain Planet as a deranged, power-mad environmentalist, delivering lines with a mix of seriousness and menace that adds to the comedy.
Recurring Gags: A recurring joke is Captain Planet's catchphrase, "I'm turning you into a tree," which he follows through with by literally turning people into trees, regardless of whether they are guilty of harming the environment or not.
Don Cheadle's Performance: Cheadle's deadpan delivery and commitment to the role are central to the series' humor. His portrayal of an eco-tyrant contrasts sharply with the original, benevolent version of the character.
Episodes and Reception: The shorts became a viral hit due to their absurd humor, Cheadle's star power, and the nostalgic twist on a beloved character. They inspired memes and discussions about environmentalism in pop culture.
Ultimately, the Funny or Die Captain Planet series is a tongue-in-cheek critique of environmental extremism and a hilarious send-up of 1990s cartoons, elevated by Don Cheadle's over-the-top performance.