Jan Pinkava, co-writer of Pixar's Ratatouille, shares how he created a beloved rat hero, while Julia Zichello, an evolutionary biologist, discusses her personal experiences with rats and their nuanced behaviors. Bethany Brookshire reveals how societal views label rats as villains and examines the emotional connections people can form with them. The podcast explores the complex relationships humans have with rats, how media influences perceptions, and the underlying moral dilemmas in using these creatures for scientific research.
The podcast examines the evolving cultural perceptions of rats, highlighting their historical transition from beloved pets to vilified pests in modern society.
Jan Pinkova discusses how the animated film Ratatouille symbolizes themes of acceptance and challenges societal biases, inviting empathy towards unconventional identities.
Deep dives
The Birth of Ratatouille
The development of the animated film Ratatouille began with the concept of a rat aspiring to be a chef, which originated from Jan Pinkova's childhood memories and experiences. He envisioned a story that juxtaposed the culinary world with the unique journey of Remy, a rat who dreams of cooking despite societal norms. This concept raised immediate questions about the nature of talent, identity, and the biases faced by the characters, allowing viewers to engage with a story that addresses prejudice and acceptance. The film's successful execution led to its recognition as a groundbreaking tale in animation, ultimately winning the Oscar for Best Animated Feature.
Rats through a Historical Lens
The podcast discusses how cultural perception of rats has fluctuated over time, from being viewed as beloved pets in Victorian England to being demonized in modern society. This shift is exemplified by New York City's aggressive stance against rats, which are often labeled pests rather than acknowledging their role in ecosystems. The conversation explores how societal attitudes shape our view of animals, specifically rats, emphasizing the need to reassess and potentially rehabilitate their image as valuable members of the urban environment. By recalling moments from history, the podcast invites listeners to understand the deeper connection between humans and rats beyond mere extermination.
Rats in Science and Research
The podcast highlights the value of rats in scientific research, noting that they play a crucial role in understanding genetics, behavior, and pharmacology. Researchers utilize rats due to their rapid breeding capabilities and genetic similarities to humans, offering insights that lead to advancements in medicine and behavioral science. While the ethical implications of using rats in laboratory settings are discussed, the conversation also sheds light on their immense contributions to human welfare and the potential to improve methods of pest control. This complexity offers a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of human-animal relationships, particularly in scientific contexts.
The Story Beneath the Surface
Ultimately, Ratatouille serves as an allegorical tale that transcends its basic plot of a rat cooking in a human kitchen—it delves into themes of acceptance, identity, and the pursuit of one's passion despite societal barriers. Jan Pinkova emphasizes the film's mission to foster understanding and empathy towards those viewed as 'other,' encouraging audiences to reevaluate their perceptions of not only rats but all marginalized groups. The narrative challenges stereotypes associated with rats while weaving a deeper message regarding the universal struggle for acceptance and belonging. As a reflection on human behavior and biases, Ratatouille invites viewers to recognize the shared aspirations that connect all creatures, regardless of species.
To most people, the rat is vile and villainous. But not to everyone! We hear from a scientist who befriended rats and another who worked with them in the lab — and from the animator who made one the hero of a Pixar blockbuster. (Part three of a three-part series, “Sympathy for the Rat.”)