"Joe Barbera's s always complaining that he can't get humor into cartoons anymore. Just do it. You've got your money. Why do they let the networks run their lives?"
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In this quote, John Kricfalusi, an influential animator and creator of the iconic series "Ren & Stimpy", uses a review of contemporary practices in the animation industry, especially referencing Joe Barbera, co-creator of timeless animation series such as "The Flintstones" and "Tom and Jerry". Kricfalusi suggests that Barbera, as a veteran of the animation service, feels constrained and irritated by the problems of integrating humor into contemporary cartoons. The mention of Barbera's problems highlights a viewed decline in imaginative flexibility and creativity in animated works over time.
Kricfalusi challenges this concept by urging creators to simply "do it"-- to instill humor into their work in spite of perceived constraints. He implies that monetary security ("You've got your money.") supplies the leverage essential to take imaginative threats, recommending that monetary stability must empower developers to prioritize their artistic vision over industry pressures.
The critique reaches the impact of tv networks, which are often seen as gatekeepers that determine content, tone, and format, potentially suppressing creativity. By questioning, "Why do they let the networks run their lives?" Kricfalusi mentions the industry's reliance on networks for circulation and success, which can cause compromising imaginative integrity to satisfy network needs or to fit specific commercial molds.
Kricfalusi's statement serves as both a lament and a call to action. It at the same time acknowledges the difficulties postured by external impacts-- like network demands-- and motivates a more rebellious, uncompromising position towards maintaining the essence of humor and imagination in animation. By invoking the name of Joe Barbera, a highly regarded figure in the industry, Kricfalusi highlights this tension in between business success and imaginative credibility, hiring developers to take advantage of their established success to press back against restrictions and revitalize the spirit of humor in animations.
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