Top episodes (thus far)

Thanks to watching this show online, I can watch whenever I want (To prevent episode burnout I watch what's available one week, and then skip the next and then go back when the newest episode airs). Based on what I have seen thus far here is the list from worst to best:

15.) The Call of the Drongo (episode 10)
I wanted so badly to like this episode, but I just can't. It starts off with an interesting premise, but as the episode progresses it reveals that it is not so well executed. From an uninspiring song, to some drawn out madness and annoyances (I find the main zebra more annoying than Bunga) to even taking a shot from the original movie (where the apexes run into the Outlands was reminiscent of the wildebeests entering the gorge). D

14.) The Search for Utamu (episode 8)
So far this one of my least favorite episodes, the Fuli centering didn't grip me as one other one and the whole Utamu thing didn't really click, though I think kids will certainly eat this one up. C-

13.) Bunga the Wise (episode 3)
At first I didn't like this episode but after a 2nd viewing, I realize I was a bit harsh on this one. It is mildly amusing, though Bunga is probably my least favorite of the Lion Guard since he does some pretty reckless things which get annoying after a while that everyone else has to bail his tail (okay bad rhyme). At least the last part of this episode saves it a little more for now... C+

12.) Can't wait to be Queen (episode 4)
I respect the writers of this show for at least giving Kiara a bit of depth on her attempt to try out being a leader, too bad they had to make her a bit bratty, but at least this is her first attempt so I'll be a little soft on her. B-

11.) The Imaginary Okapi (episode 14)
A good episode with Beshte making a new friend and even Simba welcomes him into the Pridelands. The leopard villain is interesting as well, hope we see more of him. B

10.) Paintings and Predictions (episode 11)
An episode with an original twist: Bunga attempts to predict what is going to happen. This makes him a little more likable for now at least. The ways he at least tries to prevent something bad to happen to Kion was indeed amusing. The song "Panic and Run" however, could have been better. At least the ending gave me an amusing smile. B

9.) The Mbali Fields Migration (episode 12)
This episode was a big surprise for me, as the Guard leads two species to a new feeding ground. The childbirth scene is quite heavy especially for a Disney Junior show. The song "Trail of Hope" is a good song that should have been longer. The only negative is the way the infant zebra kicks the hyenas is preposterous. Otherwise these zebras are 10x more tolerable that the airheaded one. B+

8.) Bunga and the King (episode 13)
This could have been a bad episode, since Bunga does his usual antics which land both him and the king in trouble. However, the poignant scene where Bunga and Simba reminisce how they were both raised by Timon and Pumbaa and the ending really save the episode. In fact the ending is guaranteed to make even the most skeptical viewer smile. B+

7.) The Kupatana Celebration (episode 6)
Now we're talking! This episode makes every attempt to maximize the message of the whole franchise with its Circle of Life theme which actually appeals to adults as well. I love how this episode promotes tolerance and respect for others. The song "Jackal Style" gets stuck in your head for a while, and I like how even Simba realizes he makes mistakes too. B+

6.) Eye of the Beholder (episode 5)
Great episode centering on Ono, since it deals with him handling a minor handicap. The song "Outta the way" ranks (almost) up there with "Be Prepared" B+

5.) Rise of Makuu (Episode 2)
Like Episode 6 promotes respect for culture and customs plus Pua is a great character, I hope we see more of him in the future. The only negative is the song for Bunga is a bit uninspired. B+

5.) The Problem with Galagos (episode 16)
Don't let the title of this episode fool you, this is more about the leopard Badili as the Guard helps him stand up to the bully Mapigano. I could very well relate to Badili himself since I too was a bully victim. The song "Find your Roar" is another good but could have been longer. The only other negative, though minor, is that the episode plods along sluggishly. A-

4.) Too Many Termites
A nice premise where the Lion Guard accidentally kicks out a bunch of hyena look-alikes aardwolves. Good to see Reirei and Goigoi again and their song "We'll make you a meal" has a nice vaudville/ragtime feel to it. A-

3.) Follow that Hippo! (episode 9)
Besthe gets his dues with this great episode where he takes the role model route for a young elephant. The song "Hero inside" makes a great accomplice for this episode (and sang wonderfully too). A-

2.) Fuli's New Family (episode 7)
Fuli gets great character treatment in this episode with her struggling with being a team player and her longing for independence making it one of the more mature episodes this far. The song "My Own Way" was sung beautifully by Diamond White. The ending definetely had me smiling. A-

1.) Never Judge a Hyena by Its Spots (episode 1)
The first episode is still the best. Jasiri....oh boy, where to begin? She's the most interesting character after Kion with her mix of sass and spunk, not to mention wisdom. The Song "Si Si Ni sawa" is a great song too. I hope we see more of her in the future too. The fight scene at the climax was amazing too. My favorite shot is where Kion swipes Janja looking like a buff tattooed man flexing, sending the villain flying. So far this bar hasn't been raised any higher. A