Cartoon College

Cartoon College is an insightful, engaging, and often humorous documentary released in 2012 that provides an inside look at the creative world of cartoonists and comic book artists. Directed by Josh Melrod and Tara Wray, this film stars esteemed cartoonists and educators Lynda Barry, Steve Bissette, and Casey Bohn among others, each contributing valuable perspectives on the craft and history of cartooning.

Cartoon College takes us on an exciting journey, tracing the path of a variety of students at Vermont's prestigious Center for Cartoon Studies (CCS), seen as a 'Mecca' for aspiring cartoonists. This exclusive, graduate-level institution is dedicated to training the next generation of comic artists, and the documentary delves into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs encountered by these budding artists.

Barry, Bissette, and Bohn, the central figures and mentors in the film, not only provide their own anecdotal experiences but also play instrumental roles in guiding these students. Lynda Barry, known for her raw and inspiring comics, imparts wisdom to the students about developing their creativity and finding their unique voice. Steve Bissette, acclaimed author and teacher, is seen sharing his expertise on the evolution of the comic book industry, the art of storytelling, and the technicalities of drawing. Casey Bohn, while not as known as the others, provides a novel perspective and valuable insight into the world of cartooning.

Through its comprehensive narrative, Cartoon College showcases the full range of experiences - from the initial brainstorming of ideas, to the painstaking precision required in bringing the creations to life, and the exhilarating moment of seeing their work in print. It takes us through the dramatic arc of an artist's life, encompassing passion, imagination, dedication, frustration, and the quest for success in a competitive field. The film strikes a balance between showing the struggle to create and the joy of creativity.

What makes Cartoon College particularly interesting is its decision not to sugarcoat the struggles associated with being a cartoonist. The film highlights that the path to success is riddled with long hours, periods of creative drought, and the constant battle to stay relevant in an ever-evolving creative landscape. The students relatable and raw experiences are showcased; the thrill of new ideas, the agony of artistic blocks, the pressure of looming deadlines, and the unpredictability of the industry.

While the film's primary focus lies in following the journey of these emerging talents, it takes care to address the larger context of the medium's history and future. The evolution of cartooning, its shifting popularity, and the impact of new technology are all explored in the documentary, sketching a broad narrative linking past, present, and future.

The film also does textbook work when it comes to visually representing its subject matter. It uses a comprehensive array of interesting montages, interviews, and, naturally, a plethora of animated sequences. The cinematography is inventive and captivating, particularly during sequences that highlight the detail-oriented artistry that goes into making every panel and page.

Moreover, the film’s humor, warmth, and authenticity impress. It does an excellent job mining genuine humor out of the students' experiences and showcases the ability of cartoons to tell complex stories and distil emotions. The thought-provoking interviews enhance understanding of the art form and the cartoonists, offering glimpses at how each artist somehow injects elements of themselves into their creations.

While the primary audience for this film no doubt includes those interested in comic artistry and graphic narratives, Cartoon College entertains and enlightens a wide range of viewers. It's a story about perseverance, the power of ideas, and the intricate artform that is cartooning.

In essence, "Cartoon College" provides a rich, vivacious, and deeply personal glimpse into the lives of aspiring cartoonists and the world of cartooning itself. Whether you're a longtime fan of this art form or entirely new to it, you might find yourself inspired and entertained by this look at the folks who put pen to paper to create new worlds, one panel at a time.