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Deep Dive: Dear Mr. Watterson (2013)

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Dear Mr. Watterson
Dear Mr. Watterson is a documentary directed by Joel Allen Schroeder that examines the influence of Bill Watterson and his comic strip Calvin and Hobbes. The film originated from Schroeder's desire to understand the cultural impact of the strip, beginning with fan interviews in December 2007. The filmmakers conducted interviews with various cartoonists and fans, avoiding direct contact with Watterson due to his reclusive nature. The documentary captures the essence of Watterson's work and its lasting effect on readers and creators alike. The film premiered at the Cleveland International Film Festival on April 9, 2013, after a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over 200% of its $12,000 goal. The documentary features insights from notable figures in the comic industry and emphasizes the themes of curiosity and exploration found in Watterson's final cartoon. The film's approach is both reflective and analytical, aiming to answer why Calvin and Hobbes has had such a profound impact on its audience.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Bill Watterson's influential comic strip fans
  • •See interviews with famous cartoonists like Berkeley Breathed
  • •Find out why Watterson avoided public appearances

Did You Know

•Bill Watterson ended Calvin and Hobbes on December 31, 1995.
•The first Kickstarter campaign raised over 200% of its $12,000 goal.
•The film was accepted into the Cleveland International Film Festival on March 1, 2013.
•The documentary premiered on April 9, 2013, at the Cleveland festival.

Perfect For

Comic strip enthusiastsBill Watterson fansAnimation history buffs