Rock Paper Scissors, the classic game, gets a hilarious animated makeover on Nickelodeon. This new series, developed from Nickelodeon’s Intergalactic Shorts Program, features three best friends and roommates engaged in absurd, competitive antics. The show premieres on February 12, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (ET/PT).
From Shower Thought to Nickelodeon Show
The show’s creators, Kyle Stegina and Josh Lehrman, envisioned Rock, Paper, and Scissors as roommates and best friends, constantly competing in outlandish ways. This simple premise allows for endless comedic possibilities and wacky adventures. The creative freedom of animation enables the characters to explore various scenarios, from traveling to the moon to going back in time, all while maintaining grounded storylines.
Dream Cast Brings Characters to Life
The series boasts a stellar voice cast, including Ron Funches as Rock, Thomas Lennon as Paper, Carlos Alazraqui as Scissors, and Melissa Villaseñor as Pencil. The creators revealed that they had these actors in mind early on, highlighting the perfect fit of each voice to its respective character. Alazraqui’s casting as Scissors was particularly crucial, requiring an actor who could balance the character’s “lovable jerk” persona with vulnerability and insecurity.
Recording During a Pandemic: A Blend of Solo and Ensemble Sessions
While ensemble recording sessions are becoming less common, the Rock Paper Scissors cast utilized a combination of virtual and in-person recordings. The actors’ talent shines through, making it seem as if they are always recording together, especially during improvised bickering scenes. This seamless blend of recording styles adds to the show’s comedic dynamic.
Comedy that Appeals to All Ages
Rock Paper Scissors successfully bridges the gap between children’s and adult humor. The show’s creators, with their background in adult animation, strive to create content that is genuinely funny for everyone. By focusing on relatable themes like entitlement, low self-esteem, and empathy, the series delivers both laughter and heartwarming moments. The blend of smart and silly humor, combined with genuine heart, makes each episode resonate with viewers of all ages.
The Challenges and Rewards of Children’s Media
While working in children’s media presents unique challenges, the creators find it incredibly rewarding. The need to tell stories without relying on adult humor tropes pushes their creativity. Crafting concise, impactful narratives within the strict time constraints of a children’s show hones their writing skills. The ability to create a show that appeals to all ages is a significant accomplishment.
alt text: Promotional poster for the Rock Paper Scissors Nickelodeon show featuring the main characters
A Season Full of Highlights
The creators teased upcoming episodes filled with emotional moments and surprising storylines. One episode, “The Fart Joke Debate,” tackles the divisive topic of fart jokes with humor and a meaningful message delivered by guest star Jason Alexander. Another highlight is the introduction of the trio’s unique vehicle, promising a memorable and hilarious sequence.
The Magic of Ensemble Voice Acting
The cast emphasized the unique energy and camaraderie that comes from recording together, drawing comparisons to old-school vaudeville acts and live band performances. While individual recording sessions offer efficiency, the in-person interactions allow for improvisation and a more dynamic creative process. The cast’s pre-existing friendships and shared history further enhance the on-screen chemistry.
alt text: Key art for the Rock Paper Scissors Nickelodeon Show featuring the main characters in action poses
The Unsung Hero: Voice Director Kristi Reed
Voice director Kristi Reed plays a vital role in shaping the performances and ensuring the comedic timing is perfect. The cast praised her ability to clearly communicate direction, pinpoint specific nuances in line delivery, and seamlessly blend the actors’ and creators’ visions. Her passion for the material and investment in the characters contribute significantly to the show’s success.
Comedy with Heart: The Secret Ingredient
The cast and crew believe that sincerity is key to creating comedy with heart. By playing the reality of each situation rather than focusing on the joke itself, the actors infuse the characters with genuine emotion. The genuine friendships among the cast members and their individual perspectives also contribute to the show’s heartwarming quality. This heartfelt approach allows the humor to resonate on a deeper level, creating a truly enjoyable viewing experience for audiences of all ages.
