Richard Jeffery, the Series Director of Bluey, shares his fascinating journey in the world of animation since 2017. He reveals the behind-the-scenes magic that brings Bluey to life, discussing favorite scenes and characters, particularly the production of the beloved 'Sleepytime' episode. Rich also humorously touches on Aussie-Kiwi relations, assuring that their work is nothing like jumping on sheep! Listeners gain insight into the collaborative effort of a 50-member team crafting each episode, filled with passion and creativity.
Richard Jeffery highlights the collaborative production process of Bluey, underscoring the essential role team dynamics play in creative storytelling.
The emotional depth in episodes like 'Sleepy Time' showcases Bluey's unique ability to resonate profoundly with both children and adults alike.
Deep dives
Origins of Bluey and Early Days
The development of Bluey began in 2017 when Joe Brumm secured funding for the show and reached out to Richard Jeffery to collaborate. Initially serving as the animation director, Jeffery recalls seeing the pilot and knowing from the start that this project had potential. Their creative partnership dates back to their time in the UK, where they developed a friendship while working on the series Charlie and Lola. As they embarked on this new venture together, Jeffery was eager to help bring Brumm's vision for Bluey to life, marking the start of an expansive journey that would lead to 156 episodes.
Director's Role and Creative Process
As the director of Bluey, Richard Jeffery oversees the creative direction and management of a large team, organizing all aspects of production from script writing to final edits. His responsibilities include briefing animators on character performance and ensuring that each episode captures the intended emotions and storytelling elements. Jeffery emphasizes the collaborative nature of the work, detailing how he successfully coordinates various departments, each with its own unique function, to ensure every episode meets quality standards. This intense production process has him engaged with multiple episodes simultaneously, balancing operational demands while inspiring creativity among a team of dedicated artists.
Personal Touch and Favorite Moments
Throughout the conversation, Jeffery shares his favorite moments from the show, highlighting the emotional depth and unique storytelling that sets Bluey apart from traditional children's programming. He recalls specific scenes, such as a poignant moment in the episode 'Sleepy Time,' that resonate deeply with audiences and evoke powerful feelings. Additionally, he mentions personal connections to episodes like 'Grandad,' which reflect themes of vulnerability and familial bonds. This emphasis on heartfelt storytelling contributes significantly to Bluey's wide appeal, illustrating that the team is creating more than just a children's animation; they are conveying meaningful stories that resonate with both children and adults.
He's the all-knowing and all-seeing Series Director of Bluey, and Richard Jeffery has all the panicked 4am wake-ups to prove it!
Rich/ Rich J from the Fairytale 80s montage/ Mackenzie's Dad/ RichWOW jumps in the Gotta Be Done wagon to share his Bluey origin story, what director life actually involves, and the true state of Aussie-Kiwi relations behind the scenes at Ludo Studio ("we don't jump on sheep Mackenzie!")
Plus favourite scenes, favourite character, favourite episode - and just how long it took to make Sleepytime as magical as it is, plus all the series secrets Rich was desperate to include in Behind Bluey.
Gotta Be Done is ex-journos and Adelaide/ Melbourne mums Kate McMahon and Mary Bolling, as we deep-dive every Bluey episode, with plenty of detours into mama life, childhood memories, and everything else we're bingeing, too!