Sunday, September 25, 2016

Episode 26: Steven Universe and Nostalgia part 2


Episode 26: Steven Universe and Nostalgia pt. 2
Hosts: Frank Shaw and John Belliston
Produced by Hobos in the Back Row
Scripting by Frank Shaw
Edited by: Frank Shaw
Graphic Design by: Nathan Newell
Intro Music: Piano Sonata mvnt 1 by F.G. Shaw
Outro Music: Piano Sonata mvnt 3 by F.G. Shaw

There aren't a lot of show notes for this episode. Just a couple of links to some articles that we felt were quite relevant to the topic. Steven Universe is something that John absolutely loves (and if you've listened to the podcast that's quite apparent) and it's something that Frank enjoys as well. So this is a cartoon we'll revisit, probably next fall.

This first link is an article addressing nostalgia from the perspective of "queer kids" that grew up in the 90's. Neither John, nor Frank can fully identify with this perspective, but we can empathize and sympathize with this perspective. Homosexuality is something that society has become more comfortable and accepting of. The cautiousness of the 90's has given way to Steven Universe, a cartoon that openly shows same sex relationships, but in such a way that it never comes across as preachy. The genius of the show is how it embraces the idea of love and family and friendship. Those are the real themes of the cartoon, and ultimately it helps trigger those warm longing feelings of nostalgia that we seem to seek as we grow older.

The second article is an in depth commentary of the nostalgia of Steven Universe. This is the article where the quote from Mad Men is used that I quoted in the episode. It touches on some of the same stuff we did, but is worth a read, just for the author's enthusiasm for the series.

Nostalgia is subjective. John and Frank get that. They understand that that what triggers those wonderful feels in one person won't necessarily be the same for the next. We heavily criticized Stranger Things (despite enjoying the series) for forcing the nostalgia. Some people might be inclined to do the same with Steven Universe. Nostalgia will have a part 3 on the podcast, probably sooner than later.

No comments:

Post a Comment