Why are there no Filipino cartoons!? | The Chismis | Episode 2 | One Down

Summary

Filipinos have made significant contributions to the animation industry, with notable involvement in beloved films like 'Finding Nemo' and 'Inside Out.' Despite this, Filipino representation in lead roles remains scarce. The video discusses the subtle inclusion of Filipino culture in animation and questions the adequacy of such representation. It highlights the importance of authentic storytelling and the role of independent creators in pushing for more accurate and diverse representation, suggesting that the future of Filipino representation in animation is contingent on both creators' persistence and audience demand.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Filipinos have made significant contributions to the animation industry, with many working in Western animation studios and schools in the Philippines.
• 🎬 Iconic animated films like 'Finding Nemo', 'The Incredibles', and 'Inside Out' have had Filipino involvement in writing, directing, and animating.
• 😢 The emotional opening scene of 'Up' was created by Filipino Ronnie del Carmen, who drew inspiration from his own family.
• 🤔 Despite the presence of Filipino talent, there is a lack of explicitly Filipino protagonists in mainstream animation.
• 🎭 Some subtle references to Filipino culture exist in animations, such as in 'Lilo & Stitch' and 'The Incredibles 2', but these are not always apparent to the general audience.
• 🌐 There is a growing representation of Filipino characters in lead roles, like in 'Float' and Disney's 'Raya', but the extent of Filipino influence may not be widely recognized.
• 📺 The internet and platforms like YouTube have allowed for more visibility and data to show that stories with specific cultural experiences can have broad appeal.
• 📚 Netflix's new show based on Filipino graphic novels is a step forward in authentic representation, with a story set in Manila and featuring Filipino folklore.
• 💪 Independent creators play a crucial role in ensuring authentic representation, as they understand the cultural significance of stories better than outsiders.
• 👀 The demand for Filipino representation in animation also depends on viewers supporting and advocating for these stories to be told.

Q & A

Why are there many Filipino nurses in America?

There are many Filipino nurses in America due to the mass number of western nursing schools in the Philippines.

How have Filipinos contributed to the animation industry?

Filipinos have found success in the animation industry, contributing to writing, directing, and animating movies like 'Finding Nemo', 'The Incredibles', and 'Inside Out'.

Which Filipino animator is known for creating the opening scene of 'Up'?

Ronnie del Carmen, a story supervisor for the film 'Up', created the iconic opening scene where old Carl reminisces over his late wife Ellie.

What is the significance of the address 'P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way' in 'Finding Nemo'?

The address 'P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way' in 'Finding Nemo' is a playful nod to Filipino culture, as it is set in a location with a Filipino accent.

Why are there not more explicitly Filipino characters in animation?

While there are slight references to Filipino culture in animation, there is a lack of explicitly Filipino protagonists, indicating a need for more representation.

What role did Armon Serrano play in incorporating Filipino culture into 'Lilo and Stitch'?

Animator Armon Serrano placed her cultural roles in the Christmas sequence of 'Lilo and Stitch', adding a touch of Filipino culture to the film.

How does the film 'Raya and the Last Dragon' represent Southeast Asian countries?

While 'Raya and the Last Dragon' represents all of the Southeast Asian countries, most of the voice actors are East Asian, and the directors are not Asian, raising questions about the depth of representation.

What is the importance of Netflix's new show based on Filipino folklore?

Netflix's new show, based on the graphic novel by Filipino writer and artist team Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldissimo, is significant as it features authentic Filipino stories and characters, with the protagonist voiced by Filipino actors.

Why are independent creators key to authentic representation in animation?

Independent creators are key to authentic representation because they can tell stories with cultural significance and understanding that may not be possible within larger studios.

How can viewers help increase representation of Filipino stories in animation?

Viewers can help increase representation by creating demand for Filipino stories to be told, supporting independent creators, and engaging with content that authentically represents Filipino culture.