Before being adapted into a full-fledged Netflix series, “Hilda” was first introduced as a graphic novel by author Luke Pearson in 2010. The award-winning book has gained a cult following through its fantastic illustration of urban fantasy journeys in the fictional city of Trolberg where giants, gnomes, and trolls exist.
And as we wait *fingers crossed* for Season 3, here’s a recap of some valuable lessons we’ve gained. Really, it’s quite a feat to blend real emotions with larger-than-life plots with such honesty—and we’re here to hold a mirror up to ourselves to learn from the curious and courageous Hilda herself.
Courage will get you far
As seen in countless episodes, young Hilda isn’t afraid to be the protagonist in her own life. The countless times that she challenged authority figures with wit and resourcefulness prove this.
It’s okay to lose in life sometimes
In episode 4 of Season 1, Hilda joined the Sparrow Scout and was initiated through a dodgeball game. Together with her new friends David and Frida, they are tasked to beautify the Trolberg City Park but then unexpected things unfold: They meet plant-like creatures called vittra that ruined their work. Getting to the bottom of the problem by saving the vittra’s friends from the mulching machine, Hilda ends up losing the scout badge. She and her friends, however, are still happy for the spontaneous experience.
Expressing emotions are normal
In life, you don’t get to always pretend you are okay. And Hilda’s role does not give a damn about showing her emotions, not for others, but for her own sake. She is angered and saddened by things (whether that’s about her furry friends or moving to another place) and shows how it’s perfectly normal to react in a suggestive manner. This is also apparent in Hilda’s friends: David’s default shyness and Frida’s protective gestures are normal expressions too.
Art is a sanity break
Hilda has a knack for drawing. And whenever she feels bored, she gets her sketchpad and roams the outdoors to look for the perfect subject (something as mundane as a stone, in one episode). Behind this is the simple joy of doing something to get you in the right mood. Sometimes if you’ve been in a rut, rediscovering things that once made you happy is the best pick-me-up.
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Still from “Hilda”
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