A Tale Dark & Grimm

Lore & Background

The series follows a trio of talking crows who narrate the real story of Hansel and Gretel, portrayed as a prince and a princess. After being beheaded by a baker or witch-like figure, the twins run away and search for a new and happy family. Their journey becomes a winding and wickedly witty tale that incorporates elements from several other Brothers Grimm stories.

The voice cast includes Andre Robinson as Prince Hansel, Raini Rodriguez as Princess Gretel, and many others such as Scott Adsit, Ron Funches, Erica Rhodes, Jonathan Banks, Nicole Byer, Eric Bauza, Charlotte Wilson Langley, Kari Wahlgren, Tom Hollander, Cree Summer, Adetokumboh M'Cormack, David Henrie, Missi Pyle, Matthew Waterson, and Adam Lambert.

Production history began in 2013 when Henry Selick was set to direct a stop-motion animated film adaptation of Gidwitz's novel, but by August 2016 he was still working on it. The series was announced in June 2021 without Selick's involvement, as part of three Netflix Original shows targeted at kids and families. A trailer was released on September 9, 2021.

Reader's Guide

A Tale Dark & Grimm represents a notable entry in Netflix's original animated programming for children and families, adapting a modern children's book that itself reimagines classic fairy tales. Its nomination for the inaugural Children's and Family Emmy Awards highlights the series' recognition within the industry, even though it was not renewed for a second season. The show's use of a trio of talking ravens as narrators and its blending of multiple Brothers Grimm stories distinguish it from straightforward adaptations. The series also reflects a shift from an earlier planned live-action film adaptation by Henry Selick to an animated format, illustrating the evolving development of the property. While the series did not continue beyond its first season, its Emmy nomination and unique approach to familiar tales contribute to its place in the landscape of contemporary children's animation.