Dan Rattiner speaks with Mitchell Kriegman, Emmy Award-winning writer, director, and producer – Episode 212
Dec 12, 2024
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Join Mitchell Kriegman, Emmy Award-winning creator behind classics like 'Clarissa Explains It All,' as he shares his fascinating journey in children's television. He reflects on his artistic roots in New York, touching on memorable experiences, including his time with Saturday Night Live. Kriegman also delves into union challenges faced in the industry, highlighted by an inflatable protest. Listeners will discover his transition into documentary filmmaking and personal stories from his unique upbringing that shaped his creative vision.
Mitchell Kriegman's career showcases a unique blend of comedy and children's programming, driven by his early experiences at Saturday Night Live.
His current projects, including a musical and a graphic novel, reflect a commitment to innovative storytelling and diverse artistic expressions.
Deep dives
Overview of Mitchell Kriegman's Career in Television
Mitchell Kriegman has had a prolific and diverse career in television, particularly known for his work in children's programming, with series such as 'Rugrats', 'Doug', and 'Bear in the Big Blue House'. He began his journey in the television industry at 'Saturday Night Live', a pivotal experience that shaped his creative trajectory. His dual experience in comedy and children's television boosted his career, making him a sought-after creator for animated and live-action shows. He highlights that the creative demands of children's programming were more fulfilling for him, despite the industry's significant changes over the years.
Creative Experiences and Artistic Evolution
Krigman's artistic journey has been expansive, having transitioned from being a performance artist and video artist to working prominently in television. He has developed a strong presence in various artistic fields, including theatre, where he is currently involved in a musical titled 'Stuck in the 90s', utilizing music from that era. He also delves into the world of graphic novels, with a new project titled 'Blame', which explores unique storytelling techniques relevant to contemporary media consumption. His ongoing work reflects a commitment to innovative narratives and diverse forms of artistic expression.
Life Influences and Personal Insights
Growing up in a psychiatric clinic profoundly impacted Kriegman's perspective, shaping both his personal life and artistic vision. He faced skepticism from notable figures during his education, with some mentors doubting his potential as a writer, which fueled his drive to succeed. Now residing in Portugal, he enjoys a new chapter of life, swimming in the ocean and embracing a creative lifestyle that blends work and leisure. His reflections on family life, travels, and friendships reveal a rich tapestry of experiences that continue to influence his work in television and beyond.
Episode 212: This week on the “Dan’s Talks” podcast, Dan speaks with Mitchell Kriegman, an Emmy Award-winning writer, director, and producer best known for creating Nickelodeon’s Clarissa Explains it All, PBS’s It’s A Big Big World, and Disney Channel’s Bear in the Big Blue House, the latter of which he won an Emmy for. He is renowed for his use of “Shadowmation.”
Find all the “Dan’s Talks” podcast episodes at podcasts.schnepsmedia.com/podcast/dans-papers.
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