Superbook (2011 TV series)
| Superbook | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Superbook Reimagined |
| Genre |
|
| Directed by |
|
| Voices of |
|
| Theme music composer | Mark Hammond |
| Opening theme | The Salvation Poem by Matt & Sherry McPherson |
| Composer | Kurt Heineke |
| Original language | English |
| No. of seasons | 5 |
| No. of episodes | 68 |
| Production | |
| Executive producer | Gordon Robertson |
| Producers |
|
| Editor | Bryant Paul Richardson |
| Running time | 26 minutes |
| Production companies |
|
| Original release | |
| Network | |
| Release | September 1, 2011 – May 4, 2021 |
| Related | |
| Superbook (1981) | |
Superbook (also known as Superbook Reimagined) is an American
Asia-Pacific region animation studios along with locally based partners like Tokyo MX and Word of Life Press Ministries in Japan.[1][2][3] It is a reboot of the original series of the same name
.
The Christian Broadcasting Network produced the animated reboot starting on September 1, 2011, which has had 5 seasons and 68 episodes so far. Together, they are considered to be among the most successful animated collaborative Japanese and American media franchises.[4]
Synopsis
When best friends Chris and Joy have a problem along with their robot named Gizmo, they uncover the secrets of Superbook through a mysterious portal to the past, traveling back in Biblical times from the Old Testament and New Testament eras to solve them.
Cast and characters
Main
- Christopher Quantum (voiced by Sam Vincent): The friend of Joy, the owner of Gizmo, the son of Professor Crispin and Phoebe, and a student at Valleyview Middle School.
- Joy Pepper (voiced by Shannon Chan-Kent): The friend of Chris and Gizmo, who studies at Valleyview Middle School.
- Gizmo (voiced by Cathy Weseluck): The robot of Chris from Professor Crispin.
- Superbook (voiced by Colin Murdock): The device that takes Chris, Joy, and Gizmo through a mysterious portal to the past, travelling back in the biblicaltimes.
Recurring
- Professor Crispin Quantum (voiced by Jan Rabson): The father of Chris and the husband of Phoebe.
- Phoebe Quantum (voiced by Nicole Oliver): The mother of Chris and the wife of Crispin.
- Todd (voiced by Cathy Weseluck): The antagonistic rival to Chris and a cheating student at Valleyview Middle School.
- Jason (voiced by Brian Drummond): A reformed kid robber, who formerly steals from Chris' house.
- Jay (voiced by Michael Donovan): A classmate of Chris.
- Mitch (voiced by Brian Drummond): A classmate of Chris.
- Sharon Myers (voiced by Kathleen Barr): A former bully thief at the Valleyview Middle School.
- Janice (voiced by Keegan Connor Tracy): The president of the Girls' Leadership Club.
- Mrs. Pepper (voiced by Cathy Weseluck): The mother of Joy.
- Pearce (voiced by Michael Adamthwaite): The leader of the Skateboard Maniacs.
- Mr. Pepper (voiced by Colin Murdock): The father of Joy.
Guest
- Ranger Granger (voiced by Colin Murdock): The park ranger at the Quantum family camp.
- Barry (voiced by Alan Marriott): A bully, who both intimidates Tommy and Chis confronts at the Valleyview Skateboard Park.
- Tommy (voiced by Aidan Drummond): A victim of Barry, who Chris defends.
- Miraculo (voiced by Colin Murdock): A fake magician, who Chris exposes.
- Will (voiced by Matt Hill): A bandmate of Chris.
- Principal Travis (voiced by Kathleen Barr): The principal of the Valleyview Middle School.
- Gizmo's Parrot (voiced by Sam Vincent): The parrot of Gizmo.
- Becky (voiced by Nicole Oliver): The partner of Joy for a science project.
- Bonnie Scott (voiced by Cathy Weseluck): The new girl in the wheelchair, who Joy nominates for the club.
Episodes
| Seasons | Episodes | Originally aired | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First aired | Last aired | Network | |||
| 1 | 13 | September 1, 2011 | March 29, 2013 | CBN | |
| 2 | 13 | June 24, 2013 | September 19, 2014 | ||
| 3 | 13 | January 13, 2015 | February 13, 2017 | ||
| 4 | 13 | June 24, 2017 | June 25, 2019 | ||
| 5 | 16 | September 1, 2019 | May 4, 2021 | ||
Season 1 (2011–2013)
| No. overall | No. in series | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | "In The Beginning" "The Story of Creation" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | September 1, 2011 | |
|
Superbook narrates how Tree of Life , God banishes Adam and Eve from Eden. Returning home, Chris asks for forgiveness from his father, and Professor Crispin forgives him. Cast : Brian Dobson as Michael, Paul Dobson as Lucifer / Satan / Serpent, Kirby Morrow as Adam, Keegan Connor Tracy as Eve, and Jim Conrad as God. | ||||||
| 2 | 2 | "The Test!" "Abraham and Isaac" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Michael Merton | March 25, 2013 | |
|
In ancient Hebron, God makes a covenant with Abraham. In the present, Chris feels guilt about the sick boy at the local hospital wanting a Holo9, that is, his birthday gift. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to Hebron, where they meet Isaac and his father, Abraham, who recalls how the three visitors, that include Jesus, affirm the promise of a child for Abraham and his wife Sarah. Taking Isaac, Abraham goes to Mount Moriah to make a burnt offering. Discovering through Gizmo that God tells Abraham to sacrifice Isaac the day before, the trio hurries to pursue Abraham and Isaac. Arriving at the altar, Abraham binds Isaac. At the other side of the mountain, Chris, Joy, and Gizmo witness how God calls Abraham to prevent him from sacrificing Isaac and God provides Abraham a ram as the burnt offering. Returning home, Chris gives the Holo9 to the sick boy, and Debbie, the nurse, gives him a raffle wristband for a game unit. Cast : Richard Newman as Abraham, Michael Daingerfield as Isaac, Jim Conrad as God, and Noel Johansen as Jesus / Visitor. | ||||||
| 3 | 3 | "Jacob and Esau" "The Stolen Birthright" | Bryant Paul Richardson | David Ehrman | March 25, 2013 | |
|
In the Quantum yard, during a water fight, Joy accidentally gets Gizmo wet, who suddenly believes he belongs to Joy, making Chris furious at Joy. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to the Rebekah, favors Jacob, who recalls God asserting Esau will serve Jacob. After an unsuccessful hunt, Esau demands Jacob, who deceives to sell his birthright in exchange for a stew, giving up his birthright. Superbook takes the trio forward on time to Haran, where they rejoin Jacob, who argues with his father-in-law Laban. As Jacob tells the kids how he tricks Isaac into giving him his brother's blessing and then flees into Haran, he prepares to meet Esau again, following God's instruction. At dawn, Jacob wrestles with God, that is, Jesus, who changes his name to Israel and blesses him, naming the place Peniel . Facing each other, Esau forgives Jacob, and they reconcile. Upon returning, Chris forgives Joy and fixes Gizmo. Cast : Andrew Kavadas as Jacob, Michael Adamthwaite as Esau, French Tickner as Isaac, Maxine Miller as Rebekah, and Noel Johansen as Jesus / Angel of the Lord. | ||||||
| 4 | 4 | "Let My People Go!" "The Story of Exodus" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Cydne Clark and Steve Granat | April 1, 2011 | |
|
Chris, Joy, and Gizmo argue about their best Superbook trip ever. Superbook whisks them to Midian, where they meet Moses, a Hebrew refugee and a shepherd, who is a former prince of Egypt. At Mount Sinai, God, who reveals himself as the God of his ancestors, calls him from a burning bush and sends him to the Pharaoh to lead Israel out of Egypt with the sign of Moses' staff. After Moses reunites with his brother Aaron, they confront the Pharaoh, who refuses to let Israel go. Returning to the Pharaoh, Moses and Aaron give him the sign of Aaron's staff becoming a serpent. As the Pharaoh refuses to let Israel go, the land of Egypt suffers the Ten Plagues, leading to the Pharaoh letting Israel go. During the final plague, Moses instructs Israel on the Passover and leads them out of Egypt. Regretting his decision, the Pharaoh and his army pursue the Israelites to the Red Sea. With the Israelites trapped and hearing God's direction, Moses parts the Red Sea, and the Israelites cross over. As the army approaches, Moses closes the sea, drowning the Egyptians. Returning home, the trio agrees that the recent adventure is their best. Cast : Jim Conrad as God, Richard Newman as Moses, Michael Kopsa as Aaron, and Paul Dobson as Pharaoh. | ||||||
| 5 | 5 | "The Ten Commandments" "Moses and the Law" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Cydne Clark and Steve Granat | September 1, 2011 | |
|
During his family camp, Chris adventurously ignores the rules, making him, Joy, and Gizmo trapped inside a cave. Superbook whisks them to the Golden Calf, Moses smashes the stone tablets and destroys the golden calf. As Moses intercedes for the Israelites, God renews his covenant and gives two new stone tablets. Upon returning, the trio is found by Ranger Granger and Chris' parents, with Chris acknowledging his fault. Cast : Jim Conrad as God, Richard Newman as Moses, and Michael Kopsa as Aaron. | ||||||
| 6 | 6 | "A Giant Adventure!" "David and Goliath" | Rob Corley and Tom Bancroft | Brian Cochran and Sean Gaffney | December 24, 2012 | |
|
In ancient Bethlehem, Prophet Samuel anoints a young shepherd named David, the youngest son of Jesse, to be the new king of Israel. In the present, Chris is discouraged from playing guitar in front of a crowd. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to the Valley of Elah, where they meet David, who takes down an offensive bear. Accompanying David to the battle camp between the Israelites and the Philistines, the trio witness Goliath, a giant from Gath, taunting the army of Israel. After reprimanding his oldest brother Eliab, David presents and proves himself to King Saul to fight Goliath. That night, David plays his harp and encourages Chris to play guitar for God. With five smooth stones and a sling, David confronts Goliath while the latter ridicules the former. David hurls a stone with his slingshot that hits Goliath's forehead, stumbling the giant and making the Philistines flee, and David triumphs. Upon returning, Chris can face the audition in front of the crowd. Cast : Colin Murdock as the Commander, Alessandro Juliani as David, Paul Dobson as Goliath and Saul, Scott McNeil as Samuel, and Trevor Devall as Eliab and Jesse. | ||||||
| 7 | 7 | "Roar!" "Daniel and the Lions' Den" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Mark Steele | January 1, 2013 | |
|
At the Valleyview Skateboard Park, Chris struggles to do the right thing when the bully, Barry, harasses the boy, Tommy. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to ancient Babylon in approximately 500 BC, where they witness the advisers of King Darius jealously plotting against Daniel, who is King Darius' friend. Following the announcement of King Darius' decree of praying only to him under the direction of the other advisers, the trio goes to Daniel's house to warn him of the law. Daniel continues to pray to God, teaching Joy how to pray, too, but the palace guards arrest him. King Darius hesitantly complies with the decree, throwing Daniel into the lions' den. That night, King Darius doesn't sleep while the trio prays for Daniel. The next day, King Darius hurries to the lions' den, calling for Daniel. Being lifted from the den, Daniel responds and recognizes God. Then, King Darius addresses the other advisers. Upon returning, Chris stands up for Tommy against Barry. Cast : Michael Kopsa as Daniel and Mark Oliver as Darius. | ||||||
| 8 | 8 | "The First Christmas" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | December 25, 2012 | |
|
The wise men reach ancient Jerusalem from the East by the star. In the present, Chris goes to the mall for the Christmas raffle after ignoring the nativity scene, unaware of the true meaning of Christmas. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to Jerusalem, where they encounter King Herod speaking with the wise men who seek to worship the King of the Jews, but King Herod secretly plans to find the infant king. Superbook takes the trio on the road, where they meet a couple from Nazareth, a pregnant Mary and her husband, Joseph, during the census of Quirinius. Mary recounts the announcement of the birth of Jesus by the Angel Gabriel. Entering Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph stay at the stable as no lodging is available. As Mary is about to give birth, Chris is bothered about the situation, but the trio witnesses the annunciation to the shepherds by the Angel Gabriel on the outskirts of Bethlehem. Going back to the stable, Chris, Joy, and Gizmo, alongside the shepherds and the wise men, meet the newborn baby Jesus with Mary and Joseph. Upon returning, Chris fully understands the true meaning of Christmas. Cast : Brian Dobson as Joseph and Wise Man #2, Teryl Rothery as Mary, Colin Murdock as Herod, Sam Vincent as Wise Man #1, and Michael Dobson as Wise Man #3. | ||||||
| 9 | 9 | "Miracles of Jesus" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | March 27, 2013 | |
|
As Chris begins to believe the supposed miracles of a street magician named Miraculo, Superbook whisks him, alongside Joy and Gizmo, to ancient Capernaum in Galilee, where they meet Jesus of Nazareth, who heals a paralytic at a house, and Satan tries to oppose Jesus. The trio joins the crowds as Jesus teaches them the Parable of the Sower. At a campfire, after discussing teachings and miracles with Jesus, Chris asks about the sign of Jesus' power to Jesus' disciple Simon Peter. Sailing to the region of the Gadarenes, Jesus, the disciples, and the trio experience a storm on the Sea of Galilee caused by Satan. As the disciples wake up Jesus, who is sleeping, Jesus rebukes them of their faith and calms the storm. Coming across the tombs in the region of the Gadarenes, they encounter a demoniac who begs Jesus from torture and identifies himself as Legion. Jesus heals the demoniac, casting out Legion and sending it to the pigs, enraging Satan. Jesus tells Chris to tell others about him. Upon returning, Chris exposes Miraculo's fake tricks. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus, Sam Vincent as the Possessed Man, Brian Drummond as Simon Peter and the Paralytic, Paul Dobson as Satan, and Colin Murdock as Herder #1. | ||||||
| 10 | 10 | "The Last Supper" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Gaffney | March 28, 2013 | |
|
Chris becomes arrogant when his band auditions, disregarding his bandmates. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to the 1st century Bethany, where they meet Simon Peter, a disciple of Jesus. Accompanying Simon Peter, the trio meets John, another disciple who argues about the place of honor with other disciples, including Judas Iscariot. Rejoining his disciples, Jesus rebukes them about greatness. When Jesus triumphantly enters Jerusalem while riding a donkey, the crowds praise and welcome him with palm branches. Jesus cleanses the Temple as he drives out the sellers and moneychangers, continuing to teach. At the house, a woman anointing Jesus' feet with expensive perfume troubles Judas Iscariot, but Jesus rebukes him. Struggling with Jesus' recent actions, Judas Iscariot betrays Jesus to the leading priest with thirty pieces of silver. Jesus washes his disciples' feet, teaching Simon Peter and the disciples about humility. During the night at the supper in the upper room, Jesus predicts the betrayal to his disciples, secretly permitting Judas Iscariot to go. As Judas Iscariot leaves the room, Jesus institutes the Communion and prays for his disciples. Returning home, Chris humbles himself and serves his bandmates. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus, Brian Drummond as Simon Peter, Trevor Devall as Judas Iscariot and the Vendor, and John Payne as John. | ||||||
| 11 | 11 | "He Is Risen!" "The Resurrection of Jesus" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Tim Hodge and Len Uhley | March 29, 2013 | |
|
In 30 AD, in the Golgotha and after carrying the cross on the road, Jesus is crucified on the cross. Entrusting John to Mary and drinking sour wine, Jesus dies, and the Roman centurion professes belief while experiencing earthquakes and darkness. After three days, Mary Magdalene brings the good news of the resurrected Jesus appearing to her at Jesus' tomb, and Simon Peter and John confirm it. Returning home, Chris respects Phoebe's wishes. , Trevor Devall as Pontius Pilate, and Paul Dobson as Satan and the Roman Soldier #1.Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus and the Temple Priest, Teryl Rothery as Mary, John Payne as John and the Roman Soldier #2, Nicole Oliver as Mary Magdalene, Brian Drummond as Simon Peter, Michael Donovan as the Angel | ||||||
| 12 | 12 | "The Road to Damascus" "The Conversion of Saul" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Tim Hodge | December 27, 2012 | |
|
Chris doesn't see a chance of the kid Jason changing his ways when the latter robs the former's house. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to ancient Jerusalem, where they meet Gentiles, blinding Saul. Witnessing Saul's conversion, Joy and Gizmo tell it to Chris. Jesus calls Ananias to heal Saul's blindness, and at Straight Street, Ananias heals and baptizes Saul. When Saul preaches his conversion by Jesus, the Temple guards search for him, and Saul escapes with a basket. Returning home, Chris gives Jason a second chance. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus; Brian Dobson as Saul; Garry Chalk as Ananias, the Temple Guard, and the High Priest; and Sam Vincent as Stephen. | ||||||
| 13 | 13 | "Revelation: The Final Battle!" "Revelation!" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Gaffney | March 29, 2013 | |
|
In the future, Satan rallies his troops for the final battle with Jesus. In the present, Chris believes his parents will never forgive him after accidentally burning his house. Superbook whisks Chris to Armageddon, where he meets Satan, disguised as the Angel Lucifer, who attempts to lure Chris to his side. Meanwhile, Superbook whisks Joy and Gizmo to the throne room of heaven, where they meet an elderly John, who witnesses the end of days, writing down visions of the future. John explains the Spirit of God, who brings him to heaven, remembering the ascension of Jesus while promising the Holy Spirit. Superbook takes Joy and Gizmo to the desert where Chris is, who realizes Lucifer is the Devil, who fails to tempt him to eat the forbidden fruit. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Chris confronts Satan, who becomes the Snake, and then flees with Joy and Gizmo. Jesus, with his armies of heaven, suddenly returns and vanquishes Satan. With evil destroyed forever, God restores all creation with a new heaven, a new earth, and a New Jerusalem. Recording everything, John, alongside the trio, bows before God. Returning home, Chris faces his parents, who forgive him. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus, Paul Dobson as Lucifer / Satan / Snake, and John Payne as John. | ||||||
Season 2 (2013–2014)
| No. overall | No. in series | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 1 | "Jonah" "Jonah Hears God" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Cory Edwards | June 29, 2013 | |
|
In ancient Israel, Prophet Jonah runs away from God, who commissions him to warn Nineveh, a city of God's enemies. In the present, Joy refuses to show mercy to Sharon Myers, the Valleyview Middle School thief bully, demanding justice from Principal Travis. Superbook whisks Joy, Chris, and Gizmo to a boat amidst the great storm on the Mediterranean Sea, sailing for Tarshish, where they meet the runaway Jonah. Following the casting of lots, the ship's captain and the crewmen identify Jonah as the cause of the storm, throwing Jonah and the trio overboard. As the storm ceases, a great fish swallows them, and they stay inside it for three days. Jonah prays, causing the fish to spit him and the trio onto a beach. Journeying and arriving at Nineveh, Jonah warns its people about God's judgment as he witnesses their wickedness. Learning the repentance of Nineveh through its King's decree to pray and fast by wearing sackcloth and sitting in ashes, Jonah is upset with God, who forgives Nineveh. After explaining his mercy to Nineveh, God comforts Jonah with the lesson of a plant. Upon returning, Joy shows mercy to Sharon Myers. Cast : Bill Mondy as Jonah and a Ninevite, Jim Conrad as God, Dale Wilson as the Ship's Captain and the King of Nineveh, Michael Kopsa as Crewman #1 and a Ninevite Man, Sam Vincent as Crewman #2, Colin Murdock as Crewman #3 and a Ninevite, Cathy Weseluck as a Ninevite Woman, and Sam Vincent as a Ninevite. | ||||||
| 15 | 2 | "Joseph and Pharaoh's Dream" "Joseph Shares His Dreams" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Gaffney | August 29, 2013 | |
|
In ancient Canaan, seeing Jacob gives the coat of many colors to his son, Joseph, favorably, Joseph's brothers, including Reuben and Judah, jealously throw Joseph into a pit. In the present, Chris' plan for the soccer match is interrupted when Professor Crispin helps someone with a stranded car. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to a prison in ancient Egypt, where they meet Joseph, the prisoner in charge, who recounts his old dreams of greatness, leading to his envious brothers selling him to slavery. The Pharaoh's cup-bearer, whose dreams Joseph has interpreted, seeks Joseph's help to explain the Pharaoh's dreams. As Pharaoh tells his dreams to Joseph, Joseph interprets them as seven years of abundance and seven years of famine. Discerning Joseph's wisdom, the Pharaoh makes Joseph the Governor of Egypt. During the famine, when Joseph's brothers arrive in Egypt to buy grain, Joseph confronts them, who bow before him, and demands to bring Benjamin. With the famine worsening and Simeon in prison, Jacob reluctantly agrees to let Benjamin go. Perceiving his brothers, Joseph tests them with his special cup, revealing himself and reconciling with them. Jacob reunites with Joseph, moving into Egypt. Upon returning, Chris trusts God's plans. Cast : Kirby Morrow as Joseph; Andrew Kavadas as Jacob, Reuben, and the Steward; John Payne as Judah; James Kirk as Benjamin; and John Novak as Pharaoh. | ||||||
| 16 | 3 | "The Fiery Furnace!" "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Brian Cochran | August 27, 2013 | |
|
Chris wrestles with a moral decision of looking at the test answers or not. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to ancient Babylon, 500 BC, where they meet three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, discussing the Golden Image that King Nebuchadnezzar sets up. After the astrologers threaten the three friends, the celebratory ceremony for the Golden Image begins, and by King Nebuchadnezzar's command, everyone bows down to worship it, except for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When they defy King Nebuchadnezzar, King Nebuchadnezzar arrests them to give them another chance to worship his Golden Image or to cast them into the fiery furnace otherwise. Standing up for their faith in God, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to worship it. King Nebuchadnezzar is furious, ordering to throw them into the fiery furnace. Looking at the fiery furnace, King Nebuchadnezzar sees Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, with the fourth person he describes as God, walking around the fire unharmed. King Nebuchadnezzar commands the three friends to come out, praising God and decreeing against anyone who speaks against their God, taking down the Golden Image. Upon returning, Chris honestly takes the test and passes it. Cast : Brian Drummond as Shadrach and a Babylonian Official; John Payne as Meshach, a Babylonian Official and a Soldier; Michael Donovan as Abednego and a Babylonian Official; Garry Chalk as Nebuchadnezzar; Colin Murdock as a Babylonian Official; and Sam Vincent as a Soldier. | ||||||
| 17 | 4 | "Rahab and the Walls of Jericho" "Rahab and Jericho" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | July 18, 2013 | |
|
At the Jericho. Accompanying the spies into Jericho, the trio meets Rahab, an innkeeper, who lets the spies in. After the guards interrogate Rahab concerning Israelite spies, who she hides on the roof, Rahab deals with the spies to save her family with a scarlet rope as the sign. Superbook takes the trio forward to the west side of the Jordan River, rejoining the Israelites, who carry the Ark of the Covenant, and Joshua, who recounts his meeting with Jesus—the Commander of the Lord's army. With the priests blowing their horns daily, the Israelites march around the walls of Jericho once a day for six days, then seven times on the seventh day, where they shout, causing the city walls to fall. The spies save Rahab and her family while Joshua and his troops conquer Jericho . Upon returning, Joy befriends Becky. Cast : Jim Conrad as God; Noel Johansen as Jesus / Commander of the Lord's Army; Trevor Devall as Joshua, the Captain of the Guard and the Guard; Brian Drummond as the Second-In-Command and the Spy #2; Michael Donovan as the Spy #1; Lisa Ann Beley as Rahab; and John Payne as the King of Jericho. | ||||||
| 18 | 5 | "Esther: For Such a Time as This!" "Queen Esther" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sindy McKay | August 17, 2013 | |
|
In ancient Persia, 5th century BC, Haman, the minister, plots to kill all the Jews, casting lots with his friends to seal the fate of Mordecai, a Jew in exile, and approaches King Xerxes to decree it. In the present, challenged to stand up to Janice, the President of the Girls' Leadership Club, Joy is discouraged. Superbook whisks Joy, Chris, and Gizmo to Susa in Persia, where Joy meets Queen Esther, who mentions the previous Queen Vashti, and her servant, Hathach. Queen Esther, alongside Joy, witnesses her cousin, Mordecai, who wears sackcloth and ashes, refusing to bow before Haman. Queen Esther sends Hathach to speak with Mordecai, who encourages Queen Esther to talk to King Xerxes about Haman's decree, making all Jews fast. In the court, King Xerxes favors Queen Esther, who bravely approaches him, holding out his golden scepter. Queen Esther invites King Xerxes and Haman to a banquet, where she exposes Haman's plans against Mordecai and the Jews, enraging King Xerxes. Taking away Haman, King Xerxes decrees to help the Jews through Mordecai and Queen Esther. Upon returning, Joy nominates Bonnie Scott, the new girl in the wheelchair, for the club. Cast : Keegan Connor Tracy as Esther, Michael Dobson as Mordecai and the King's Servant, Trevor Devall as Hathach and Xerxes, Andrew Kavadas as Haman, Colin Murdock as Haman's Friend, Sam Vincent as Haman's Friend, and John Payne as the Servant Overseer. | ||||||
| 19 | 6 | "John the Baptist" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | January 9, 2014 | |
|
After locusts and honey, John's disciples ask their teacher regarding Jesus, and John tells them that Jesus is the Messiah. As a favor to Herodias and her daughter, Salome, King Herod Antipas arrests John. Superbook takes the trio forward to Galilee, where they rejoin John's disciples, who, on their teacher's behalf, ask Jesus if he is the Messiah. The trio goes to Machaerus after learning John is imprisoned there, where John prophecies about himself. At Herodias' request, Salome dances for King Herod Antipas, who promises to her, and she asks for John's head. King Herod Antipas regretfully beheads John. Ultimately, Jesus acknowledges and recognizes John the Baptizer. Returning home, a melancholic Chris faces Sam. .Cast : Jim Conrad as God, Noel Johansen as Jesus, Paul Dobson as John the Baptist, Michael Donovan as Herod Antipas, Teryl Rothery as Herodias, Kathleen Barr as Salome, Brian Drummond as John the Baptist's Disciple #1 and a Sadducee, Michael Dangerfield as John the Baptist's Disciple #2, and Colin Murdock as the Centurion | ||||||
| 20 | 7 | "Paul and the Shipwreck" "The Shipwreck" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Steve Granat and Cydne Clark | October 11, 2013 | |
|
In ancient Caesar, recounting Jesus appearing to strengthen him in his cell, encouraging Joy. While sailing, Paul shares with the ship's officers about a pending disaster after sensing danger, but they dismiss him. When the storm suddenly emerges, Paul, while praying, sees an angel who appears and affirms safety. Paul tells the crew that everyone will be all right, ministering to them by giving bread. Approaching an island, the shipwrecks and Captain Julius instructs everyone to head for shore. Everyone arrives on the island of Malta, where Paul is miraculously unharmed after being bitten by a viper. Witnessing the miracle, the locals ask Paul to heal their leader's, Publius ', father. Paul heals Publius' father, staying in Malta temporarily for Rome. Upon returning, Joy faces her relief project. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus; Michael Donovan as the Angel, Julius, and a Sailor; Brian Dobson as Paul; Colin Murdock as the Centurion and a Roman Soldier; Sam Vincent as Lysias and a Maltese Man; Michael Dobson as the Ship's Captain; and Andrew Kavadas as a Sailor and Publius. | ||||||
| 21 | 8 | "Job" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | June 24, 2014 | |
|
Satan visits Heaven to ask God for permission to torment Job. In the present, during the worst week of his life, Chris loses his grandfather. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to a land where Sabean raiders take Job's cattle. Satan rains down fires on Job's possessions and kills Job's children. Escaping from catastrophes, the trio witnesses Job and his wife receiving the reports of the calamities. Despite the calamities, Job continues to worship and serve God by sacrificing. Satan visits Heaven a second time to ask God for permission to plague Job's body, striking Job with boils that prompt Job's wife to contend to curse God and die. Visiting Job, Job's friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, assert that Job's problems are because of his sin, arguing with Job, who asks God what he has done wrong. Speaking with Chris, Job declares that his redeemer lives. When Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar leave, God confronts Job. As God shares his grandness with Job, Job repents. After God criticizes them for their foolishness, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar return to Job and ask for forgiveness. Then, God restores Job and his household. Returning home, Chris reads a passage on his grandfather's funeral. Cast : Jim Conrad as God; Michael Donovan as Michael and Zophar; Sam Vincent as an Angel and Job's Servant; Paul Dobson as an Angel, Job's Servant, and Satan; Colin Murdock as an Angel and Bildad; Alan Marriott as Job; Cathy Weseluck as Job's Wife; Andrew Kavadas as Job's Servant; Michael Adamthwaite as Job's Servant; and Gary Chalk as Eliphaz. | ||||||
| 22 | 9 | "Noah and the Ark" "Noah Hears from God" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | November 9, 2013 | |
|
Chris must choose between skipping school during school hours or rejecting Pearce's dangerous influence. Superbook whisks Chris, Joy, and Gizmo to when the world is fraught with evil, where God vows to destroy the world. The trio meets Noah, where God tells Noah to build an ark, covenanting to save Noah and his family from the flood. Alongside the trio, Noah, his sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their wives build the ark. When everything is ready, including the animals, God tells Noah to enter the ark. When God closes the ark, the flood begins, raining for forty days. During the flood, Chris discusses his situation with Noah. Remembering and saving only Noah and his family, God stops the rain, and the waters recede after the flood. Noah releases a raven and a dove to look for land, and the dove returns with an olive leaf. God commands Noah to leave the ark, alongside his family and all animals, proceeding to share with Noah about his rainbow covenant, promising not to destroy the world with a flood again. Upon returning, Chris rejects Pearce's dangerous influence. Cast : Jim Conrad as God, Ron Halder as Noah, Kathleen Barr as Noah's Wife, Michael Adamthwaite as Japheth, Colin Murdock as Marauder #1, and Michael Donovan as Marauder #2. | ||||||
| 23 | 10 | "Gideon" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Tim Hodge, Cydne Clark and Steve Granat | August 27, 2014 | |
|
When leadership calls Joy in a difficult situation, she doubts she's for it. Superbook whisks Joy, Chris, and Gizmo to terebinth tree, the trio witnesses Gideon encountering Jesus, the Angel of the Lord, who tells him to rescue Israel from the Midianites and reassures him with his offering. Superbook takes the trio forward in time, where they reunite with Gideon, now the commander of Israel's army. Following God, Gideon tells his soldiers frightened to fight to return to their homes and then cuts the size of his army even more by watching how soldiers drink from a stream. After Gideon shares how God affirms his plans through a sheep's fleece , he, alongside Purah, sneaks into the Midianite army's camp, where he hears a Midianite soldier's dream that strengthens him. Rallying his army of 300, Gideon prepares them to battle the Midianites, defeating them with God's help by blasting ram's horns and smashing pitchers with torches. After defeating the Midianites, Gideon affirms God as the ruler of Israel. Returning home, Joy saves her parents. Cast : Noel Johansen as Jesus / Angel of the Lord and an Israelite Soldier; Michael Dobson as Gideon and an Israelite Soldier; Lee Tokar as Purah, Midianite Soldier #2, and an Israelite Soldier; Jim Conrad as God and an Israelite Soldier; Sam Vincent as Midianite Soldier #1 and an Israelite Soldier; and Colin Murdock as an Israelite Soldier. | ||||||
| 24 | 11 | "Peter's Denial" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | March 10, 2014 | |
| 25 | 12 | "The Prodigal Son" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | August 27, 2014 | |
| 26 | 13 | "Elijah and the Prophets of Baal" "Elijah" | Tony Bancroft and Bryant Paul Richardson | David Baldwin | September 19, 2014 | |
Season 3 (2015–2017)
| No. overall | No. in series | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | 1 | "Ruth" | Tony Bancroft and Bryant Paul Richardson | Erin Zimmerman | January 13, 2015 |
| 28 | 2 | "Tower of Babel and The Day of Pentecost" "The Tower of Babel" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | August 20, 2015 |
| 29 | 3 | "The Birth of John the Baptist" | Craig Grasso and Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | November 6, 2014 |
| 30 | 4 | "Isaac and Rebekah" "Rebekah and Isaac" | Robert Kirbyson and Bryant Paul Richardson | David Ehrman and Nate Ehrman | August 3, 2015 |
| 31 | 5 | "Naaman and the Servant Girl" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | December 11, 2014 |
| 32 | 6 | "Samuel and the Call of God" "Samuel" | Jerry Yu Ching | Sean Gaffney | December 11, 2015 |
| 33 | 7 | "David and Saul" "Saul and David" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Len Uhley | February 4, 2016 |
| 34 | 8 | "Nehemiah" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Robert Kirbyson | Nate Ehram and David Ehrman | May 26, 2016 |
| 35 | 9 | "Elisha and the Syrians" | Jerry Yu Ching | Mark Edward Edens | September 26, 2016 |
| 36 | 10 | "Lazarus" | Jerry Yu Ching and Bryant Paul Richardson | Nate Ehram | March 17, 2017 |
| 37 | 11 | "King Solomon" | Jerry Yu Ching and Bryant Paul Richardson | David Baldwin | November 28, 2016 |
| 38 | 12 | "Nebuchadnezzar's Dream" "Daniel and King Nebuchadnezzar's Dream" | Jerry Yu Ching and Bryant Paul Richardson | Mark Edward Edens | February 27, 2017 |
| 39 | 13 | "The Good Samaritan" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Mark Edward Edens | February 13, 2015 |
Season 4 (2017–2019)
| No. overall | No. in series | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 1 | "Jesus Feeds the Hungry" "Miracles of Jesus 2/Miracles II" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Sean Gaffney and Sean Roche | November 18, 2018 |
| 41 | 2 | "Peter and Cornelius" "Salvation for All!" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Cheryl McKay | June 24, 2017 |
| 42 | 3 | "Paul and Silas" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Erin Zimmerman | August 21, 2017 |
| 43 | 4 | "Solomon's Temple" "Building the Temple" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | David Baldwin | February 23, 2018 |
| 44 | 5 | "Peter's Escape" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Len Uhley | October 14, 2017 |
| 45 | 6 | "Jesus Heals the Blind" "Miracles of Jesus 3/Miracles III" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Cheryl McKay | November 17, 2017 |
| 46 | 7 | "Joshua and Caleb" "Caleb and Joshua" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | David Baldwin | April 27, 2018 |
| 47 | 8 | "Elijah and the Widow" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Erin Zimmerman | May 25, 2018 |
| 48 | 9 | "Teach Us to Pray" "How Do You Pray" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | David Baldwin | August 9, 2018 |
| 49 | 10 | "Jeremiah" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Sean Roche | October 16, 2018 |
| 50 | 11 | "Jesus in the Wilderness" "The Temptations in the Wilderness" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Len Uhley | February 6, 2019 |
| 51 | 12 | "Paul and Barnabas" "Disciples on a Mission" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Mark Edens | March 27, 2019 |
| 52 | 13 | "Philip" | Bryant Paul Richardson and Jerry Yu Ching | Mark Edens | June 25, 2019 |
Season 5 (2019–2021)
| No. overall | No. in series | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 1 | "The Birth of Moses" | Bryant Paul Richardson | David Evan Cunningham (screenplay) Sean Roche | September 24, 2019 |
| 54 | 2 | "Nicodemus" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | December 17, 2019 |
| 55 | 3 | "Zacchaeus" "Baptism" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Cheryl McKay (screenplay) Sean Roche | January 21, 2020 |
| 56 | 4 | "The Sermon on the Mount" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Mark Edens (screenplay) Sean Roche | February 3, 2020 |
| 57 | 5 | "Isaiah" "Isaiah & Hezekiah" | Bryant P. Richardson | Cheryl McKay (screenplay) Sean Roche | March 11, 2020 |
| 58 | 6 | "Baptized!" "Calling of the Twelve Disciples" | Bryant P. Richardson | Cheryl McKay (screenplay) Sean Roche | April 17, 2020 |
| 59 | 7 | "Jesus — Friend of Sinners" "The Parable of the Great Supper, The Call of Matthew and The Sinful Woman" | Bryant P. Richardson | David Balchwin & Sean Roche | June 12, 2020 |
| 60 | 8 | "Paul Keeps the Faith" | Bryant P. Richardson | David Evan Cunningham (screenplay) Sean Roche | September 15, 2020 |
| 61 | 9 | "Love Your Enemies" "Garden of Gethsemane and Stoning of Stephen" | Bryant P. Richardson | Mark Edward Edens (screenplay) | January 28, 2021 |
| 62 | 10 | "Paul and the Unknown God, Part 1" "Defending Your Faith ━ Pt. 1" | Bryant P. Richardson | Bryant P. Richardson (screenplay) | November 20, 2020 |
| 63 | 11 | "Paul and the Unknown God, Part 2" "Defending Your Faith ━ Pt. 2" | Bryant P. Richardson | Bryant P. Richardson (screenplay) | November 20, 2020 |
| 64 | 12 | "Doubting Thomas" | Bryant P. Richardson | Mark Edward Edens (screenplay) | February 18, 2021 |
| 65 | 13 | "The Promise of a Child" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | November 12, 2019 |
| 66 | 14 | "Rescued!" | Bryant Paul Richardson | Sean Roche | July 20, 2020 |
| 67 | 15 | "Heroes of the Bible" | Bryant P. Richardson | Sean Roche | April 20, 2021 |
| 68 | 16 | "The Widow's Mite" "Tithing" | Bryant P. Richardson | Sean Roche | May 4, 2021 |
Explorer (DVD release)
In 2016, Superbook began releasing DVDs which contained two previously released episodes per DVD. There are also special features on each DVD, such as how to draw a character in the Superbook artwork style, music videos, and/or informational videos explaining where the events of the stories may have taken place or how they relate to Jesus Christ.[5]
| Volume | Title | Original release date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Explorer Volume 1" | 2016 |
| 2 | "Explorer Volume 2" | 2016 |
| 3 | "Explorer Volume 3" | 2016 |
| 4 | "Explorer Volume 4" | 2016 |
| 5 | "Explorer Volume 5" | 2016 |
| 6 | "Explorer Volume 6" | 2016 |
| 7 | "Explorer Volume 7" | 2016 |
| 8 | "Explorer Volume 8" | 2017 |
| 9 | "Explorer Volume 9" | 2017 |
| 10 | "Explorer Volume 10" | 2017 |
| 11 | "Explorer Volume 11" | 2017 |
| 12 | "Explorer Volume 12" | 2018 |
| 13 | "Explorer Volume 13" | 2018 |
| 14 | "Explorer Volume 14" | 2018 |
| 15 | "Explorer Volume 15" | 2018 |
| 16 | "Explorer Volume 16" | 2018 |
| 17 | "Explorer Volume 17" | 2018 |
| 18 | "Explorer Volume 18" | 2018 |
| 19 | "Explorer Volume 19" | 2019 |
| 20 | "Explorer Volume 20" | 2019 |
| 21 | "Explorer Volume 21" | 2019 |
| 22 | "Explorer Volume 22" | 2019 |
| 23 | "Explorer Volume 23" | 2019 |
| 24 | "Explorer Volume 24" | 2019 |
| 25 | "Explorer Volume 25" | 2020 |
| 26 | "Explorer Volume 26" | 2020 |
| 27 | "Explorer Volume 27" | 2021 |
| 28 | "Explorer Volume 28" | 2021 |
| 29 | "Explorer Volume 29" | 2021 |
| 30 | "Explorer Volume 30" | 2021 |
| 31 | "Explorer Volume 31" | 2021 |
Gizmo Go!
In 2020, Superbook began releasing DVDs about Miss Tina starting her internship at Quantum Labs and meeting four comical robots: Gizmo, Rig, Gears and Widget.[6]
| Title | Original release date |
|---|---|
| "Tina's First Day: A Lesson in Courage" | 2020 |
| "The Quantum Hotel: A Lesson in Obedience" | 2021 |
| "Call the Repair Bots! A Lesson in Honesty" | 2021 |
| "Case of the Missing Protonatron: A Lesson in Friendship" | 2021 |
| "The Wind-Up Robot: A Lesson in Accepting Differences" | 2022 |
| "The Fast and the Gear-ious: A Lesson in Patience" | 2022 |
| "Invasion of the Bug-O-Mytes: A Lesson in Working Together" | 2022 |
| "Quantum Karaoke: A Sing-Along Special" | TBA |
| "Quantum Christmas" | TBA |
| "A Tale of Two Widgets: a Lesson in Self-Control" | TBA |
| "Rig of the West: a Lesson in Generosity" | TBA |
| "Return of the Flying House: a Lesson in Humility" | TBA |
| "Kindness Is No Joke: A Lesson in Kindness" | TBA |
Superbook Specials
| Title | Original release date |
|---|---|
| "Gizmo's Christmas Party Dilemma" | 2022 |
| "Gizmo's Roadmap to Easter" | 2022 |
| "The Adventures of Captain Kindess" | 2022 |
References
- ^ "スーパーブック シーズン４". TOKYOMX – via mxtv.jp.
- ^ Red, Isah. "'Superbook' airs on GMA 7". Manila Standard. Archived from the original on July 14, 2014. Retrieved July 13, 2014.
- ^ Talusan, Lucille (January 2, 2018). "Superbook 'Resurrected' in Japan, Christians There Welcome it Back". CBN News. Retrieved March 7, 2023.
- ^ Villacin, Paige (July 5, 2022). "How a Christian Anime Became One of the Most Successful Collaborations With an American Company". CBR. Retrieved March 7, 2023.
- ^ "Superbook Explorer". Superbook. Christian Broadcasting Network.
- ^ "Superbook Gizmo Go!". Superbook. Christian Broadcasting Network.
External links
- Superbook at IMDb
