5 reasons why The Tom and Jerry Show is the most universally loved cartoons

Cartoon Network’s long running, classic chase comedy at heart, 'The Tom and Jerry Show’ is just not an animated cartoon series but a global phenomenon for generations. The cult show became an integral part of everyone’s childhood with its immersive storyline and misadventures taking us to space station, into the future (year 2565) and even on moon (made of cheese). As the world gears up to celebrate the 82^nd birthday of Tom and Jerry on February 10, let’s dive into 5 reasons that make this show and their camaraderie one of the most loved and cherished ever.

A true friendship built on 'love to hate’ each other

William Hanna’s warm yet exacting direction and Joseph Barbera’s creative and comedic finesse catalysed a powerful partnership that transcended the typical predator-prey storytelling format. While Tom finds every chance to chase Jerry, even though he lands up taking the blame for the chaos that ensues, their protective instincts layered with a strong bond of friendship arises when either one is threatened. They set their differences aside and come together to face any common enemy, showing everyone what true friendship means.

A slapstick pantomime that’s just right for all ages

Academy Awards’ most lauded animated short became a household name depicting the gleeful contests that took the kids as well as adults on a fun ride to experience the excitement of chase across the house and beyond. The lead characters with superlative abilities at times (remember Tom’s piano playing days) made it an apt first view for kids and endearing repeat for adults for the last 80 years. The callous and conniving Tom with admirable conscience and playful, curious, and calculated Jerry who loves to cause trouble for his frenemy presented viewers with an amazing journey to cherish. Their charm and cheekiness remain unmatched in cartoon rivalries due to the heart of their relationship being a playful bond that signified unity for mutual fun.

A venerable bastions of good fun

Rooted in the legacy of entertainment, the combined action and humour of Tom and Jerry made it a definitive slapstick that put comedy, not cruelty, center stage. Even the injuries were depicted as momentary setbacks and not realistic wounds. The creative story themes depicting Tom and Jerry as globetrotter buddies confronting villains and solving mysteries (in 1975 ‘The Tom and Jerry Show’) or helping a young girl escape an abusive home (in 1992 ‘Tom and Jerry: The Movie’) entertained kids, youth and families alike. Over the years, the diversity and diversion of these stories ensured that characters and audiences get a full meal of mayhem.

A lovable setting

Inspiring umpteen possibilities, the characteristics of Tom and Jerry and their relationship gave way to a mischievous bond reinforced by precisely timed gags, nuanced facial expressions, and genius musical scores loved by billions. Conceptualised in the golden age of animation, the ability of the hapless mouse hunter and quick-witted escape artists’ to communicate without words, engage in realistic backdrops, and human-life behaviour allowed the show to transgress time, reinvigorate the excitement and fun to tell new stories time and again.

A group that wins your heart

While Tom and Jerry always held centre stage, characters such as Spike, Tyke, Tuffy, Quacker and members of The Alley Cat Gang also become integral parts of the show with love and affection pouring in from audiences. Whether it's Jerry using Spike to get Tom in trouble, or Tuffy's clever, curious, and fearless nature that makes Tom concede each time or even Tom's relentless need to make Quacker into a snack. These characters play a special role in the show and make for even greater entertainment, keeping us all hooked!

The chase and excitement will continue on Cartoon Network in India as the channel celebrates Tom and Jerry’s 82^nd birthday with the brand-new episodes of ‘Tom and Jerry Tales’ from February 7 to 11, 10.30 am onwards and ‘The Tom and Jerry Show’ airing from Monday to Friday at 10.30 am.

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