Watch Happy Happy Joy Joy - The Ren & Stimpy Story

Happy Happy Joy Joy - The Ren & Stimpy Story is a fascinating documentary about one of the most controversial and innovative animated shows of the 1990s. Directed by Ron Cicero and Kimo Easterwood, the film explores the origins, impact, and legacy of Ren & Stimpy, a groundbreaking series that redefined the boundaries of humor, satire, and animation.

The movie features a wide range of interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes stories from the creators, voice actors, and fans of Ren & Stimpy. From the early sketches and pitches by John Kricfalusi to the network battles and scandals that followed, the movie gives an unflinching and entertaining look at the highs and lows of Ren & Stimpy's journey.

At the heart of the movie is the dynamic between Kricfalusi and the network executives who sponsored his vision. As the co-creator and lead animator of Ren & Stimpy, Kricfalusi was a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of taste, style, and storytelling. His love for classic cartoons, surreal art, and pop culture references is evident in every frame of the show, which featured gross-out gags, slapstick violence, and absurdist humor.

However, Kricfalusi's uncompromising vision and dictatorial style also led to conflicts with his co-workers, producers, and executives, who often clashed over the show's content, schedule, and budget. The documentary shows how Kricfalusi's obsession with detail, perfection, and shock value often alienated his colleagues and put the show's future in jeopardy.

One of the strengths of the movie is how it balances Kricfalusi's genius and flaws with the voices of his collaborators and detractors. The documentary includes interviews with many of the original crew members who worked on the show, such as Chris Reccardi, Bob Camp, and Vanessa Coffey. They provide insights into the creative process, the challenges of working with Kricfalusi, and the legacy of the show.

The movie also features interviews with several critics and historians of animation, who contextualize the significance of Ren & Stimpy within the history of the medium. They analyze how the show influenced later shows such as SpongeBob SquarePants or The Powerpuff Girls, as well as how it reflected the cultural and political climate of the 1990s.

Another highlight of the movie is the inclusion of several fan perspectives, which testify to the enduring appeal and impact of Ren & Stimpy. From comedians such as Weird Al Yankovic or Bobcat Goldthwait to regular viewers who grew up with the show, the documentary shows how Ren & Stimpy inspired a generation of creatives and fans.

One of the most touching and surprising moments of the film is the footage of Kricfalusi meeting his fans at a convention, where he receives a standing ovation and heartfelt appreciation for his work. Despite his controversies and setbacks, Kricfalusi remains a beloved and respected figure for many fans who recognize his talent and vision.

Overall, Happy Happy Joy Joy - The Ren & Stimpy Story is a must-see movie for anyone who loves animation, comedy, or pop culture. It is a fascinating and entertaining snapshot of a pivotal moment in TV history, when a renegade artist challenged the status quo and created a show that changed the game. Whether you are a diehard fan of Ren & Stimpy or a casual viewer, this documentary will provide you with plenty of laughs, insights, and nostalgic memories.

Happy Happy Joy Joy - The Ren & Stimpy Story is a 2020 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 59.