Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer cartoon studio

History

The Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) cartoon studio was established in 1937, during the Golden Age of American animation. The studio was created to produce animated short films to accompany MGM's feature films. The formation of the studio was a strategic move by MGM to compete with other major studios like Disney, Warner Bros., and Fleischer.

The studio's first head was Hugh Harman and Rudolf Ising, who had previously worked with Walt Disney and Warner Bros.. They brought with them a wealth of experience and a team of talented animators. The early years of the studio were marked by experimentation and the development of a distinctive style.

Early Years (1937-1940)

In its initial years, the MGM cartoon studio produced several successful series, including the Happy Harmonies series. However, these early efforts were not as commercially successful as the studio had hoped. The studio's fortunes changed with the introduction of new characters and the hiring of new talent.

The Arrival of Tex Avery (1942-1955)

The arrival of Tex Avery in 1942 marked a turning point for the MGM cartoon studio. Avery, a former animator at Warner Bros., brought a new level of creativity and innovation to the studio. His unique style of humor and fast-paced animation quickly became the hallmark of MGM cartoons.

Avery's most famous creation at MGM was Droopy, a slow-talking dog with a deadpan expression. Droopy became one of the studio's most popular characters and starred in numerous shorts. Avery also introduced other memorable characters, such as Screwy Squirrel and Red Hot Riding Hood.

The Tom and Jerry Era (1940-1958)

One of the most significant contributions of the MGM cartoon studio was the creation of Tom and Jerry, a cat-and-mouse duo that became one of the most iconic and enduring animated series in history. The characters were created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera in 1940. The first Tom and Jerry short, Puss Gets the Boot, was a huge success and led to a long-running series.

Tom and Jerry shorts were known for their high-quality animation, imaginative gags, and orchestral music scores. The series won seven Academy Awards for Animated Short Film, making it one of the most awarded animated series of all time.

Decline and Closure (1958-1957)

By the late 1950s, the MGM cartoon studio began to face challenges. The rise of television and the decline of theatrical short films led to a decrease in demand for animated shorts. In 1957, MGM decided to close its cartoon studio, ending an era of groundbreaking animation.

Key Figures

Hugh Harman and Rudolf Ising

Hugh Harman and Rudolf Ising were the founding figures of the MGM cartoon studio. They were instrumental in establishing the studio's early style and producing the Happy Harmonies series. Their experience and leadership laid the foundation for the studio's future success.

Tex Avery

Tex Avery was a pivotal figure in the history of the MGM cartoon studio. His innovative approach to animation and humor revolutionized the industry. Avery's work at MGM is considered some of the finest in the history of animation.

William Hanna and Joseph Barbera

William Hanna and Joseph Barbera were the creators of Tom and Jerry, one of the most successful and enduring animated series. Their collaboration at MGM set the stage for their later success with Hanna-Barbera Productions, where they created numerous other iconic animated series.

Animation Techniques

The MGM cartoon studio was known for its high-quality animation and innovative techniques. The studio employed a large team of talented animators, background artists, and musicians to create its shorts. The use of Technicolor and detailed background art set MGM cartoons apart from their competitors.

Character Animation

Character animation at MGM was characterized by fluid movement, expressive facial expressions, and exaggerated actions. Animators like Ken Muse, Ed Barge, and Ray Patterson were known for their skill in bringing characters to life.

Background Art

The background art in MGM cartoons was often highly detailed and richly colored. Background artists like Robert Gentle and Joseph Smith created lush, immersive environments that added depth and visual interest to the shorts.

Music and Sound

Music played a crucial role in MGM cartoons. The studio employed talented composers like Scott Bradley, who created dynamic and memorable scores that enhanced the action and humor of the shorts. The use of sound effects was also a key element in MGM's animation, with effects often synchronized to the characters' movements.

Legacy

The legacy of the MGM cartoon studio is significant in the history of animation. The studio's innovative techniques, memorable characters, and high-quality production values set a standard for the industry. Many of the animators and directors who worked at MGM went on to have successful careers in animation, influencing future generations of animators.

Influence on Modern Animation

The influence of MGM cartoons can be seen in many modern animated series and films. The fast-paced humor and visual gags pioneered by Tex Avery have been emulated by numerous animators. The high-quality animation and character design of Tom and Jerry continue to be admired and studied by animators today.

Preservation and Restoration

Many of the original MGM cartoons have been preserved and restored for modern audiences. These restored versions allow new generations to appreciate the artistry and creativity of MGM's animators. The cartoons are available on various home media formats and streaming services, ensuring their continued accessibility.

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