Watch Not Quite Narwhal

Not Quite Narwhal is a charming and heartwarming animated series that debuted on Netflix in 2023. Centered around a young unicorn fish named Kelp who was adopted and raised by a family of narwhals, the show explores themes of identity, belonging, and finding your place in the world.

Kelp has always felt a little different from the rest of his narwhal pod, unable to match their talents for singing and using their horns. But he remains an optimistic dreamer who loves adventure. While the narwhals migrate each year from the Arctic to the Unicorn Sea, Kelp's sense of wonder leads him to explore shipwrecks and make new friends along the way.

At the start of the series, Kelp discovers the truth that he is not actually a narwhal but a unicorn fish. Feeling confused and alone, he decides to set off on a journey to find others like him, hoping to learn more about where he came from. Along the way, he meets a ragtag selection of characters who become loyal friends and companions, like Waffle the excitable jellyfish and Chum the cranky but softhearted harbor seal.

Kelp's biggest supporter is his adoptive mother Narwhalrus, the wise matriarch of the narwhal pod. She offers him reassurance and advice as he navigates his identity crisis and tries to balance his love for his adoptive narwhal family and his desire to connect with his own kind. Through Narwhalrus, the show emphasizes the meaning of unconditional love and how family extends beyond blood ties.

The underwater world of Not Quite Narwhal overflows with color and imagination. Kelp and his friends explore sunken ships, race through coral forests, and ride currents through the sparkling blue expanse. The animation brings vibrancy and energy to the ocean setting.

At its heart, Not Quite Narwhal is about finding belonging as an outsider. Kelp shows perseverance and an unfailing positive spirit as he searches for the place where he truly fits in. His journey is sure to resonate with viewers who have ever felt different or struggled to discover their identity. While aimed at children, the show's thoughtful themes make it engaging for audiences of all ages.

Not Quite Narwhal handles the subject of identity with nuance, humor, and charm. Kelp's openness and earnest desire to understand himself is admirable. The show represents diversity and non-traditional families in a subtle, matter-of-fact way.

With its blend of silly adventures, unlikely friendships, and emotional depth, Not Quite Narwhal promises to capture the imagination and touch the heart. Its central messages of staying true to yourself and finding belonging even when you feel like an outsider are as timeless as they are important.

Not Quite Narwhal is a series that ran for 2 seasons (39 episodes) between June 19, 2023 and on Netflix