Posted 3 May 2019
Rocko’s Modern Life/Nickelodeon/1993-1996
Watched from February 14th to March 25th, 2019
What’s funnier? Bananas or Cheese?*
If you were a Nickelodeon kid of the ‘90s, there’s no doubt “Rocko’s Modern Life” will be one of the shows you think of when it comes to Nicktoons of that era. It’s sure a fond memory for me; a show always welcomed on my TV. This Nicktoon features fun, colorful characters for the kids as well as relatable situations for the adults.
So bold, So risk-taking
Nickelodeon allowed creator Joe Murray to make “Rocko” in the way he made his independent films which were mostly for adults. I applaud the fact nothing was dumbed down for us. This was even the first Nick show to address the topic of adoption, something previously taboo to mention in a kids’ show (see episode Who’s for Dinner?). Volunteering to be the first to do such a thing took guts! “Rocko” also addressed other adult-world topics such as jobs, parking places, the healthcare system, relationships, and other real-world issues unlike other Nicktoons at the time.
The Art Style Makes Me Smile
I also enjoyed the art style. The crooked and wonky background props catch my eye. It’s what made “Rocko” “Rocko” and the style totally screams “JOE MURRAY!” The style is carried on through his other works and shows.
Ended Too Soon
As I started my most recent go-around, seasons 1 and 2 were good. When I started season 3, it’s like the quality of the episodes improved. The drawings became more consistent and the show itself seemed more family-friendly than previous seasons (though they did sneak in a few jokes). I’d say the bar was set at season 4. By then, the show had established itself and it was apparent the voice actors were having fun performing their voices. One or two additional seasons were always welcomed but then there was the 52 episode rule Nick had that the time (curse that 52 episode rule) so the show ended at season 4. After I finished the series, I was hungry for more but all was done.
Pineapples!*
“Rocko’s Modern Life” was a show made for a kids’ channel but adults made the majority of the viewership. If the kids had any questions about what they saw, I wonder how the adults addressed their questions. This is a great show that a person can start watching as a kid and continue watching through adulthood. Since I can’t give this show 10 stars, I’ll just settle giving it a perfect 5 stars instead. This show needed more seasons. So, when’s the movie “Static Cling” coming out?
*What do these phrases have to do with anything? Find out when you watch.