Animation News: "Over the Moon" Release, "Raya and the Last Dragon" Changes, and More

Honoring Joe Ruby and Animation Pioneers

• 😔 The episode begins with a tribute to Joe Ruby, co-creator of numerous Saturday morning TV shows for Hanna-Barbera, who passed away at 86.
• 💡 The discussion touches on how creatives like Joe Ruby and Ken Spears are receiving more recognition in recent years, similar to the Stanley/Kirby dynamic in comics.
• 📚 A graphic novel about Jack Kirby is mentioned, highlighting his work at Ruby Spears and his influence on characters like Loki and Thor.

"Over the Moon" and "Raya and the Last Dragon" Updates

• 🚀 "Over the Moon", directed by Glen Keane and co-directed by John Kahrs, is set to debut on Netflix on October 23rd.
• 🎬 Significant changes have occurred with "Raya and the Last Dragon", including new directors (Don Hall and Carlos Lopez Estrada), a recasting of the lead voice actor to Kelly Marie Tran, and a producer shift, with these changes dating back to Fall 2019.
• 🐉 The Aquafina character's dragon design and the unique mythological creature basis for Raya's mount, Tuk Tuk, are highlighted as exciting elements.
• 🧸 The upcoming release of "Raya and the Last Dragon" in March 2021 is expected to be accompanied by a large merchandise push, including talking dolls voiced by Kelly Marie Tran.

New Disney+ Series and Studio Shakeups

• 😂 The new Disney+ series "Earth to Ned" is highly praised for its humor and unique concept, featuring Paul Rugg as the voice and puppeteer of Ned.
• 👽 The show's chaotic alien creatures, called CLODS (Cloned Living Organisms of Destruction), are noted for their hilarious antics.
• 🏢 A significant leadership change at Warner Brothers Animation and Cartoon Network Studios sees Sam Register promoted to president, consolidating power.

Other Industry News and Film Releases

• 📺 Archer Season 11 is set to premiere on September 16th on FXX, with episodes available the next day on FX on Hulu.
• 🎬 The animated film "Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans" is confirmed as the feature film concluding Guillermo del Toro's Tales of Arcadia trilogy.
• 🎬 Christopher Nolan's "Tenet" is discussed, with a humorous note about Tom Cruise's new short haircut for his next "Mission: Impossible" films.
• 😂 The film "Bill & Ted Face the Music" is recommended as a fun and uplifting watch during current times.
• 🎙️ "Light the Fuse" podcast updates include interviews with cinematographer Dan Mandell and photographer Gabriella James.