When we think of a superhero, the last thing to cross our minds is a ladybug. French director Thomas Astruc, however, makes this idea a reality in “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Chat Noir,” a French-Korean CGI cartoon about teen Marienette Dupain-Cheng who protects the streets of Paris as “Ladybug,” the superhero, thanks to a Miraculous, a magical jewel that transforms its wearer into an “animal-themed superbeing.”

Marienette is a clumsy, shy teenager who lives above the family-owned bakery, “Tom & Sabine Boulangerie Patisserie,”  in Paris, France.

Despite her positive outlook on life, she struggles with self-esteem and confidence. Marienette is a budding fashion designer who loves her family and has a crush on Adrien Agreste, a fashion model and classmate.

Adrien lives with his doting father Gabriel Agreste, a famous fashion designer. Adrien’s mother mysteriously disappeared when he was a child. After being home schooled for most of his life, Adrien now attends school with Marienette at Collège Françoise Dupont.

Marianette’s life changes drastically when she discovers a mysterious box in her room which releases a small red and black-spotted Kwami, or sprite, named Tikki.

Tikki tells Marienette that she has been chosen to protect the Ladybug Miraculous, a pair of ladybug-themed earrings, that grants good luck and allows her to turn into the superhero “Ladybug.”

At the same time, Adrien also discovers the Cat Miraculous, a black ring with a green cat paw print in its center, paired with Plagg, a black cat Kwami. With the Cat Miraculous,  Adrien turns into the superhero “Chat Noir,” black cat in English, with the power of destruction.

Behind the guises of Ladybug and Chat Noir, Marienette and Adrien find themselves fighting against their arch nemesis Hawkmoth, the owner of the Butterfly Miraculous, who has the ability of transformation.

Hawkmoth transforms butterflies into akumas, creatures that turn people into super villains. Each villain is tasked by Hawkmoth to steal Marienette and Adrien’s Miraculouses.

Although Marienette and Adrien work together as superheroes, neither knows each other’s true identity.

“Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Chat Noir” is a fun, action-packed cartoon that speaks to our inner superhero. Each episode introduces a new villain and story. The relationship between Marienette and Adrien is entertaining and embodies the meaning of friendship and teamwork.

The show just completed its first season and is ongoing. Episodes are available for viewing on YouTube in French and Korean dialogue and on the channel Nickelodeon in English.