Top 10 Underrated Bluey Episodes
#10: "Mini Bluey"
Top 10 Horror Mini Series
Every kid is different, and that’s how it should be. This highly underrated episode thoughtfully explores that concept, as Bluey and Bingo take turns becoming one another. Soon, it becomes clear that we don’t need double Blueys or two Bingos. In many ways, “Mini Bluey” is side-splittingly hilarious, because watching the sisters commit to the bit never fails to make us laugh. Of course, there’s also a heartfelt lesson being delivered, as Bingo reassures Bluey when the latter doubts her worth. And ultimately, Bandit and Chilli just want one of each daughter! We all have things that make us special, and yeah, annoying traits too. But that’s what makes us uniquely perfect. Here’s to the Heeler girls, and to this episode we wish got more love!
#9: "Daddy Dropoff"
Anyone with children knows that getting them to school in a timely fashion is challenging. Bandit experiences this in “Daddy Dropoff,” as Bingo and Bluey prioritize fun. Though it stresses the dad out, he plays along and even comes to embrace it, indulging his youngest in one last game before sending her off. As a bonus, we see how this leads to Bingo making a new friend, Lila. We even get a glimpse into the besties’ futures. Granted, punctuality is important. But sometimes, being slightly tardy is worth it if it means paving the road with unforgettable memories! “Daddy Dropoff” understands that, making us giggle uncontrollably while tugging at our heartstrings. We aren’t sure why it isn’t one of “Bluey”’s most beloved episodes…
#8: "Calypso"
A good teacher can make a huge difference in a child’s life and development. And Calypso is an extraordinary educator, so it’s time to give her her flowers! Throughout this episode, she fosters each student’s creativity and nurtures relationships between them. Importantly, she doesn’t force things on anyone either, notably letting Pretzel move at his own pace. On top of that, we get to immerse ourselves into the kids’ worlds, taking a trip back into our childhoods in the process. Strangely enough, “Calypso” isn’t an episode that comes up too often in discussion. If you ask us though, it should. The fact that the title character is voiced by Australian singer-songwriter Megan Washington is just another reason why it should be more popular.
#7: "Barky Boats"
We see a lot of wonderful young kid and adult adventures on “Bluey.” But we want to spotlight the often ignored “Barky Boats,” which brings pre-teens into the picture in a relatable and touching manner. It sees Bluey and Mackenzie playing with their “buddies,” Mia and Captain. The older kids, nervous about transitioning to high school, eventually leave the little ones and bond (don’t worry, they come back). There are a lot of big, confusing emotions that come with growing up, and that’s what Mia and Captain are dealing with here. Teacher extraordinaire Calypso explains it flawlessly, and it’s great to see the situation represented with such care. Plus, that ending makes us well up. There’s symbolism, friendship, emotion – what more could you want?!
#6: "Housework"
Doing housework may not be inherently fun, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it so! Just ask Bingo and Bluey, who get creative while cleaning up. Naturally, Bandit and Chilli get so distracted by their daughters that they put off their own work. But it’s worth it – they learn one heck of a walk! Seeing the adults connect with their playful sides and discover joy in the mundane is lovely. Thanks to “Housework,” we find ourselves inclined to look for fresh, entertaining ways to tackle our own chores, too. We think it has everything needed to become a bonafide “Bluey” classic. It doesn’t seem like it’s reached that status quite yet, but we’re confident it will. Until then, we’ll just keep silly walking!
#5: "Faceytalk"
We’re here to demand justice and WAY more recognition for Muffin, a chaotic queen. She makes episodes with her antics. For instance, “Muffin Cone” is priceless. And we’d be remiss not to mention “Pizza Girls.” Perhaps the most underrated episode she’s featured in, however, is “Faceytalk.” The premise is simple: Bluey and Bingo are video calling with her and Socks. But Muffin is Muffin, so things go off the rails after she hogs the screen. Seeing her dodge her dad and generally wreak havoc always has us in stitches. It’s not all fun and games, though. We also see her parents, Stripe and Trixie, disagree about how to proceed – and lovingly find a way forward. It’s a sweet yet unhinged treat all around.
#4: "Bumpy and the Wise Old Wolfhound"
This isn’t the biggest “Bluey” episode there is, often being forgotten. Yet there’s so much warmth and love embedded within it that we don’t think that’s fair! It centers around Bingo, who’s feeling down while at the hospital with Chilli. But a home movie courtesy of Bluey, Bandit, and more loved ones ends up being the perfect remedy. Not only is the tale of Barnicus and her pup Bumpy – who falls ill – surprisingly captivating, it also reminds Bingo that sickness is a standard part of life. Even though it sucks, she’ll get through it. She certainly has the right people by her side, helping out. Needless to say, she feels much better by the end – and so do we!
#3: "Escape"
“Bluey” can get experimental, though these episodes sometimes get glossed over in favor of traditional ones. From a storytelling perspective though, the risk usually pays off. Just look at “Escape,” which largely takes place in a fantasy during a car ride to Nana’s house. First, Chilli and Bandit are trying to escape the kids. Eventually though, the tables turn. The whole thing is amazingly innovative, while still being true to the series’ identity. The drawings representing the made-up story are notably an extraordinary sight to behold. All the while, there’s a load of laughs to be had – Jerry Lee anyone? And that’s saying nothing of the engaging, high-stakes twists and turns. There’s no escaping it, the way the imaginative episode has been overlooked is criminal!
#2: "Handstand"
Speaking of wildly underappreciated “Bluey” episodes that aren’t afraid to experiment, this is another fantastic one. Taking place at Bingo’s birthday, it shows the young Red Heeler struggling to get someone – ANYONE – to see her pull off a handstand. There’s a lot going on, and the attention to detail within the animation is mind-blowing – it feels like a real party! Still, we find ourselves firmly focused on Bingo and her quest. Meanwhile, it seems like nobody needs Nana’s help, which isn’t making her feel great. Thankfully, her and Bingo’s paths eventually cross. It’s a powerful, heartwarming moment, and we aren’t ashamed to admit it makes us emotional. Honestly, the fact that “Handstand” isn’t on everybody’s radar is baffling, because it’s a must-watch!
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
"BBQ"
Bingo Just Wants to Relax, & We’re Here for It!
"The Dump"
If You Ask Us, Bandit’s a Pretty Wonderful Father – Faults & All
"Smoochy Kiss"
Real Love Means Accepting Someone for Who They Are, Gross Habits Included
"Café"
Making New Friends Can Get Harder as You Grow Up, but Bandit Proves It’s Worth the Effort
"Squash"
Here’s One for All the Younger Siblings Out There
#1: "Bin Night"
Top 10 Bluey Episodes That Weren't Afraid to Get Experimental
Some “Bluey” episodes stand out in every regard: narrative style, animation, story, and more. “Bin Night” is one of them, but it inexplicably tends to fly under the radar. It follows Bandit, Bingo, and Bluey taking out the trash on a series of nights, and the girls spending time with Chilli the following mornings. Throughout, Bingo opens up about a new student at school who eventually starts causing trouble. With her parents’ help, she ultimately overcomes the problem. It’s stunning. For one thing, it’s a gorgeous encapsulation of the family’s dynamic that spotlights excellent child-rearing skills. Plus, it’s also extremely detailed, making the passage of time feel seamless. And of course, there’s the show’s signature humor, heart, and sweetness. Bin night is the best night.
