Gone are the days of children’s cartoons being exclusively for the little tackers. No longer just vehicles for mindless plot lines and one-dimensional characters, animated television is taking a more genuine and authentic approach to the portrayal of human life. The good, the bad and the ugly are now all finding their way onto our screens, and as one Blue Heeler family proves it, for the better.

Creator, writer and director of Bluey, Joe Brumm, holds steadfast the belief that honesty forms the vital foundations of successful storytelling. Heartwarming and tender yet raw and emotional, Brumm’s stories for the beloved animated series offer a nuanced, relatable exploration into the complexities of the human existence. Themes of love, loss, familial relationships and friendship dynamics are seamlessly touched upon all through the unexpected lens of an anthropomorphic community of dogs.

Brumm’s commitment to authenticity and honesty has resulted in what can only be described as a cultural phenomenon. Although marked by Australianisms and references to our very own River City more specifically, Bluey transcends age, geography and socioeconomics. It delivers a message that resonates universally, proving we are indeed more alike than perhaps previously believed. Ultimately emphasising human connectivity, Brumm and his juggernaut program have firmly cemented children’s animation within the traditionally exclusive ivory tower that is cultural discourse.

Join Brumm in conversation with Jessica Rudd, the Chief Executive Officer of The Parenthood and Pro-Chancellor at Griffith University, at The Calile on Wednesday 6 November from 6PM for an insightful look into the iconic Bluey.

Please note that whilst the conversation centres around a children’s program, it is not tailored to children specifically. Children are still welcome to attend.

All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Juiced TV, an organisation launched by the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

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