Nickelodeon dominated the early modern animation era in every way possible. With a variation of cartoons, a massive market of 2 generations, and a budding entity of its own, the Viacom operated network created a culture which left an impression on the masses. The famous orange pasted logo meant something to kids everywhere in the 90's and early 2000's. Within the slime riddled structured, there were shows and specific characters that defined it. On October 7th, 1996, one of the network's most prolific shows premiered and is celebrated 20 years later.
Craig Bartlett's Hey Arnold! ushered in a unique perspective of animation. The show had a jazz like feel that paired human emotion with imagination. The story of the football head we all know became a detailed arc that left children, and adults alike breathless. Not only is Arnold's story a centerpiece, but the supporting characters around him faced significant development throughout the years. The show's title is in respect to Arnold's characterization. He helps those in need with a level of high optimism. As the show progressed, we had the opportunity to see Arnold's main conflict (the mystery of his parents) being solved. Unfortunately, that became an aching cliffhanger when the show ended in 2004.
But besides the narrative and characters, the show just had an appeal of cool. The setting based on different time periods of major U.S cities created an iconic and timeless look. Multi-color schemes, variation in character styles, the oil like canvas of a background, and the score composed by Jim Lang are a few of many factors that established the classic treasure past its conclusion. Many artists pay homage to the animated series in some way via art, music, or design. The show's merging with contemporary trends is what makes it so dope.
But the most definitive features of the show were the dark elements and realistic tones. Topics such as poverty, mental illness, abandonment, neglect, and unemployment were explored themes. The characters really lived in a vibrant and lively metropolis as if it was an actual urban setting. Things aren't always ideal and the writers did an exceptional job in making flawed characters. Remember when the show had its own movie released in theaters? The film encompassed the effects of gentrification on a neighborhood. Using mature elements in a children's show is risky indeed. But through the necessary risk, there were lessons to be taken from the fictitious reality of Bartlett as a reminder that humanity will never be ideal, but people can make it better.
Good thing Arnold is making a comeback in a big way. The burning question of Arnold's parents will finally be answered on November 23rd, 2017. Hey Arnold!: The Jungle Movie will focus on what many of us have wanted to know for years. Not only does this prove as chance to introduce this generation of kids to the series we know, but it also highlights that we have not let this show died in the sands of time. Happy 20th anniversary!
