We'd be nothing without this guy

When you stop to think of it, what benefits society more--a meticulous study of fruitfly DNA or a Bugs Bunny cartoon?

I am writing animated comedies now--and sometimes wonder if I am benefiting society, if I ever did. But then I read about the Orange County Regional History Center's show on "The Art of Warner Bros Cartoons."

And there he was--the Wascally Wabbit! I remember my ex and my daughter on Saturdays laughing away in the living room while the Wile E. and Road blazed around the desert trying to kill each other.

This show--created by the Museum of Modern Art in NY--lauds the greats, Bob Clampett, Chuck Jones, Friz Frelend and other giants of animation.

After "Steamboat Willie" with Mickey in 1928, moving shorts (ha ha, moving shorts) became the rage. Over at the "other" place--Warner's--Merrie Melodies and Looney Tunes were "tuning up."

At Warner's, they wrote cartoons for grownups. The curator of the exhibit said kids loved thinking they were part of the joke--seeing something for grownups but safe for them.

I could not describe better how I think of my Paw & Order projects. Not that I have any business comparing myself to the people who brought you Pepe LePew.

The lesson is--you don't have to be highfalutin' to be worthwhile. In fact, it helps if you are not.

http://pawandordermovie.blogspot.com