Rating: TV-PG
Service: Disney+

“Alexa & Katie” centers around two best friends as they navigate the ups and downs of family, high school and cancer. Personally, I think the show is decent. I’ve never been the biggest fan of this genre or format, but for what it is, the show holds up. The acting, camerawork and plot are standard, but some of the jokes are funny and the synergy between actors is believable.

“Diary of a Future President” follows future lawyer-turned-politician Elena Cañero-Reed, a bright middle school student trying to navigate an ever-changing life after the death of her father. Personally, I think the show is alright. The first few episodes seem a little unfocused, struggling to decide what kind of show it wants to be. As a sitcom-drama hybrid, the show attempts to use a coming-of-age humor that often falls into the awkward/cringe category. Upon first viewing, I wasn’t impressed by the characters or plot and it took another watch for me to appreciate its strengths.

The show is aimed at young girls aged 12 and up, although some of the themes and jokes edge dangerously close to mature—which tend to blur the line as to what their target demographic is. The show increases in quality when the characters (Elena specifically) have to deal with the more serious parts of life rather than the silly adolescent antics. It is much easier to become invested in the personal and family story than it is the segments dedicated to school time. It may not be Disney’s best offering, but it might grow past its rough beginning into a memorable show.

Peer Rating: 3/5

Togo

Rating: TV-PG
Service: Disney+

In the face of a dangerous storm and a fatal sickness threatening the lives of children, a man and his dog sled team race to bring home the cure. Despite the daunting premise, “Togo” is a personal story that centers on the relationship between Leonhard Seppala and the titular dog.

Peer Rating: 4.5/5

Short Circuit Experimental Films

Rating: TV-PG
Service: Netflix

Walt Disney’s “Short Circuit Experimental Films” is a collection of short animated films created by various artists and teams to showcase new ideas, techniques and stories. Each film is charming, expressive and unique, with a short introduction by the creators to explain the inspiration and goal for their projects.

Peer Rating: 4.5/5

*Zeitgeist articles are written as reviews, not recommendations.