'Storm Hawks'

Most of you are probably all wondering the same thing: what is Storm Hawks? A small portion of you might remember the show from your childhood. In this article I will explain what Storm Hawks is and why I believe it should get a continuation.

Storm Hawks is a Canadian animated series created by Asaph Fipke and produced by Nerd Corps Entertainment in association with Cartoon Network and YTV. It initially premiered on Cartoon Network in the United States on May 25th, 2007. It began airing on YTV in Canada on September 8th, 2007.

The plot of the show revolves around a group of six teenagers: Aerrow, Piper, Finn, Junk, Stork, and Radarr (the Storm Hawks) who live in a world called Atmos. This world consists of scattered, plateau-like land masses known as terras. Below the terras is what is called the Wastelands, the most dangerous place in Atmos with infernal fires and creatures. Because of its geography, travel in Atmos is mostly dependent on flight. The technology is based on energy-generating crystals that are used to power the many devices used in the series. Patrolling the skies of Atmos are squadrons—groups of warriors who pilot motorcycle-like vehicles called Skimmers that semi-transform into flying machines. Each squadron is lead by a Sky Knight and they are loosely managed by the Sky Knight Council.

In the backstory of the series, an evil ruler known as Master Cyclonis and her henchmen, the Cyclonians threatened Atmos. The original Storm Hawks led the other squadrons into battle against the Cyclonians. That is until Lightning Strike, who is believed to be Aerrow's father (although their exact relationship is never explicitly mentioned in the show), gets betrayed and killed by his own co-pilot (later known as the Dark Ace). This was 10 years prior to the beginning of the series' timeline.

At the beginning of the series, upon discovering the wreckage of the Condor, the main characters unofficially take on the name of the Storm Hawks to protect Atmos (despite not even being old enough the pilot the Condor) from the Cyclonians which has a new ruler; the granddaughter of the previous Master Cyclonis; the Dark Ace serves as her right-hand man; Snipe, the unintelligent mace-weilding strong man; and Ravess, Snipe's sister who's an archer who brings violin playing henchmen for battle music.

Main Characters

Aerrow—the main protaganist and daring Sky Knight and leader of the Storm Hawks—Aerrow is a mature and good natured teenager. Despite being the youngest Sky Knight, he is the most talented to the point he can beat the Dark Ace in hand-to-hand combat.

Finn—the marksman—Finn is described to be egotistical, self-centered and to be in a perpetual sugar rush, although he attempts to act cool and collected. He also possesses the characteristics of a stereotypical surfer/skateboarder. Despite this, Finn means well. He and Junko are best friends who often get into trouble together, serving as the comic relief pair of the show.

Junko—a large, albeit gentle, sensitive person with good intentions. He is part of a species called Wallops: strong rhino-like creatures who enjoy smashing things and are deemed unintelligent. Junko is more intellectual but weaker than the average wallop, despite still having superhuman strength aided by his Knuckle Busters. Because of this, Junko was a victim of childhood bullying, resulting in low self-confidence. Junko is a "gentle giant," despite his power he never wants to hurt anyone he holds dear.

Piper—an intelligent and skilled crystal mage and navigator. She can speak five languages and knows nearly everything about Atmos and its inhabitants. She is also the only one who can take on Master Cyclonis alone and emerge triumphant in her own skills.

Stork—the pessimistic carrier pilot and gadget specialist of the Storm Hawks. Stork is a Merb: green or brown skinned creatures who inhabit Terra Merbia, where natural disasters are constantly occurring (possibly accounting for Stork's paranoia). Stork does not actively fly with the team, and usually stays on the Condor; he has stated the his tenure with the Storm Hawks is only until "something better comes along", but truth is he cares very deeply about the rest of the Storm Hawks and considers them family. Stork is the oldest one in the squadron, with the rest of the main cast (aside from Radarr) being 14, Andy Poon states in a Q&A that he is 17-18. However, this conflicts with what the creator of the show, Asaph Fipke says in another Q&A (early 20s).

Radarr—Aerrow's faithful companion and co-pilot. He is believed to be friends with Aerrow since he was very young and are almost always together. Bevause Radarr can't talk, he often communicates with a variety of chirps, growls, and charades.

Why should Storm Hawks get a continuation?

Storm Hawks is a show that's basically about motorcyle enthusiasts turned freedom-fighters. What's not cool about that? This show has it all, character development, expression of emotion, rich humour for all ages, and a storyline from beginning to end. While I must insist that there was definitely room for improvement in the first season especially with an unnecessary amount of filler, it's still worth watching and there is a definite improvement in the second season. Not to mention, there was so. Much. Potential that they could have worked with had there have been a third season. That being said, it was unfortunate that Storm Hawks ended at the end of season two. Here I'm going to explain why Storm Hawks should get a continuation. For those who have not watched the show, you will come across some spoilers; I highly recommend you watch Storm Hawks, there are episodes on YouTube and are available on numerous websites for free access.

Reason #1—The creators explicitly say they wanted to continue the show.

In a Q&A with the creators of the show, they express interest in continuing the show. However, before that could happen, the people in charge had to give the green light to continue the show. That didn't happen because of low viewer count in the United States. 52 episodes were planned from the start and that's what they got, but had there have been a green light, Storm Hawks would have gotten a season three.

Reason #2—The show was left on a CLIFFHANGER.

SPOILER ALERT: towards the end of season two, Cyclonis goes to the other side of Atmos: known as the Far Side. This side of Atmos has crystal technology far more advanced than anybody in Atmos has ever seen. Master Cyclonis uses this to her advantage and attempts—and almost succeeds—to conquer Atmos. Fortunately the Storm Hawks stop her, but she retreats to the Far Side, and the series ends with the Storm Hawks entering the Far Side in pursuit of Master Cyclonis. There was so much potential that the creators could have picked up on.

Reason #3—There is a whole new generation of children who can enjoy the show.

Storm Hawks is 10 years old at this point; meaning there is a whole new generation of children which means a new generation of fans alongside the current fans. While the show is currently aired on Family CHRGD, it is aired at an inconvenient time for children to be able to watch it. If the show gets aired with a new season, this could definitely raise the viewer count with a new generation of fans.

Reason #4—In an age where old shows are constantly getting picked up, it wouldn't hurt to give Storm Hawks a chance.

Older shows are getting picked up sometimes even decades after their final season. I truly wish Storm Hawks could follow that same path; I don't want it to be one of those shows that didn't get a proper ending. If Samurai Jack can get a fifth season after 12 years, I'm certain Storm Hawks can get a season three with enough dedication.

I have many more reasons, however some may be considered biased. I hope you all enjoyed my article and are considering watching Storm Hawks and giving this show a chance to get the continuation it deserves.