Dear Mr. Watterson (2013)

Dear Mr. Watterson Poster

20 years after Calvin and Hobbes stopped appearing in daily newspapers, filmmaker Joel Allen Schroeder has set out to explore the reasons behind the comic strip's loyal and devoted following.

Intro
"Dear Mr. Watterson" is an explorative documentary launched in 2013 by director Joel Allen Schroeder. The film delves into the impactful world produced by Bill Watterson through his famous cartoon, "Calvin and Hobbes", which ranged from 1985 to 1995.

The Documentary's Purpose and Presentation
The film surpasses a typical biographical examination of Watterson. It does not attempt to look into Watterson's personal life or goal to expose what he's been doing given that retiring from creating 'Calvin and Hobbes'. Rather, it's a love-letter to the cartoon, exploring its cultural impact, and the value and significance of comic art. The animated movie integrates interviews with everyday fans and some of the most prominent cartoonists and artists in the field. In doing so, it aims to discover the reasons for the comic strip's enduring popularity and impact.

Themes and Discussions
One of the styles talked about in the movie is the extensive impact of Watterson's choice not to product "Calvin and Hobbes". This decision potentially cost Watterson countless dollars, however it preserved the creative integrity of the strip, permitting it to reveal human values without business interruption. The film goes over Watterson's belief that merging art and commerce would distort and jeopardize his creative work. By maintaining the integrity of his work, Watterson set a benchmark for other artists.

Gratitude for 'Calvin and Hobbes'
The documentary extensively checks out the deep love and gratitude for the comic strip, 'Calvin and Hobbes'. Schroeder showcases the cartoon's unique mix of wit, humour, and philosophical depth, which appealed to both children and grownups. He includes the viewpoints of other fans, in addition to expert cartoonists and artists, who reveal their own connections and appreciation for the cartoon. The reader's journey is captured in the documentary showing how deeply 'Calvin and Hobbes' touched and inspired people across different generations.

Conclusion
"Dear Mr. Watterson" does not make every effort to be an intrusive biographical expedition of the notoriously reclusive Watterson. Instead, it warmly provides the universal love and regard for Watterson's works. It takes a look at the enduring tradition and cultural significance of one of the most liked cartoons, 'Calvin and Hobbes'. The documentary highlights how Watterson's artistry, wit and nobility handled to produce a cartoon that has stayed deeply loved, appreciated, and prominent even after its conclusion. "Dear Mr. Watterson" culminates as a wholehearted love letter to Bill Watterson and 'Calvin and Hobbes' from its devoted fans.

Public Perception and Critique
"Dear Mr. Watterson" amassed a normally favorable response with sufficient commendation for its caring method. Critics appreciated the movie for its focus on the real love for 'Calvin and Hobbes', as well as for the way it acknowledged the contribution of comic artists in a quickly changing market. However, some criticized it for doing not have depth and analysis, viewing it as primarily sentimental. Overall, "Dear Mr. Watterson" is seen as a sentimental tribute and a love letter, a celebration of the profound and enduring impact of 'Calvin and Hobbes'.

Top Cast

  • Seth Green (small)
    Seth Green
    Himself
  • Berkeley Breathed
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  • Stephan Pastis (small)
    Stephan Pastis
    Himself
  • Bill Amend
    Himself
  • Jef Mallett
    Himself
  • Dave Kellett
    Himself
  • Jan Eliot
    Herself
  • Lee Salem
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  • Nevin Martell
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  • Jean Schulz
    Herself
  • Dan Piraro
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