The beloved Peanuts characters make a return! The latest Snoopy Presents special premiered on Apple TV+ over the weekend, with a particular focus on Welcome Home, Franklin. This special spotlights Franklin, Peanuts’ first Black character introduced in the late 1960s.
Upon the trailer release, a particular moment sparked social media chatter, referencing the 1973 special, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. The scene causing controversy depicts Franklin seated on one side of the dinner table, distinct from the rest gathered on the opposite side. In the latest special, that scene is rectified, depicting all the Peanuts characters rallying around Franklin and giving Franklin the same love and spotlight he has deserved all those years.
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The creators of Welcome Home, Franklin sought a second chance. Director Raymond S. Perci expressed, “We managed to reenact that scene, transforming an unfortunate controversy into a topic for discussion.”
In this rendition, the dinner scene unfolds in a pizza restaurant. Franklin is once again seated alone on one side of the table, while the white children occupy the other side. This time, Linus stands up and invites, “Hey Franklin, we saved you a seat over here. Come join us.”
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Presented in a 2D format, the special pays homage to traditional animation techniques, immediately captivating me with its overall visual appeal. In all my years reviewing animation for JoBlo, nothing had impressed me as much on my monitor. The vibrant colors burst off the screen, enhanced by dynamic lighting effects that imbue the world with depth and atmosphere. A specific scene, where Franklin and Charlie Brown stroll past a sun-dappled fence, compelled me to replay it multiple times, reveling in the sheer beauty of the artistry. It’s gratifying to witness Apple’s meticulous treatment of the Peanuts legacy, showcasing Charles M. Schulz’s classic characters in a manner that not only commands attention but also warmly envelops the senses.
Beyond telling a heartfelt story of forging new connections, the film delves into Franklin’s passions, such as his love for Jazz, baseball, and insights into his family background. By the movie’s conclusion, while still a supporting character, Franklin gains depth and evolves into a more cherished member of the Peanuts ensemble.
Franklin Gets Spotlight In New Special “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin” is now available go stream on Apple TV.
