Meaning: The quote "As soon as I found out how compartmentalized the industry was, I realized, Well, no wonder the cartoons are so bad" by John Kricfalusi, an artist, provides insight into the animation industry and the challenges faced within it. This quote reflects Kricfalusi's realization about the structural issues within the industry that hinder creativity and quality in cartoon production.

John Kricfalusi is a prominent figure in the animation world, best known for creating the popular animated television series "The Ren & Stimpy Show." His work has had a significant impact on the animation industry, and his views on the state of cartoons hold weight within the creative community.

When Kricfalusi mentions the compartmentalization of the industry, he is referring to the division of labor and specialization that occurs in the production of animated content. In the animation industry, the creation of a cartoon involves a complex and highly specialized process that is divided into various stages, such as writing, storyboarding, character design, animation, and post-production. Each of these stages involves a team of professionals with specific skills and expertise, and often these teams work in isolation from one another.

This compartmentalization can result in a lack of cohesive vision and creative control, as well as communication challenges between different departments. It can lead to a disconnect between the original creative vision and the final product, as the cartoon passes through the hands of multiple individuals and teams, each contributing their specialized skills without a unified creative direction.

Furthermore, the hierarchical structure and corporate nature of many animation studios can also contribute to the compartmentalization of the industry. Decision-making processes and creative input may be limited to a select few individuals at the top of the hierarchy, leading to a lack of creative freedom and innovation among the broader team.

Kricfalusi's remark about the quality of cartoons being affected by this compartmentalization sheds light on the struggles faced by creators and artists within the industry. The limitations imposed by the structural constraints of the industry can stifle creative expression and result in formulaic, uninspired content.

It is important to note that Kricfalusi's perspective on the animation industry reflects his experiences and observations, and while it may not represent the entire industry, it does highlight significant challenges that many creators and artists encounter.

In response to these challenges, some creators and studios have sought to break away from traditional production models and embrace more collaborative and inclusive approaches to cartoon-making. By fostering open communication, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration, and empowering creative teams, these efforts aim to overcome the compartmentalization that Kricfalusi criticizes and produce cartoons that are innovative, engaging, and artistically rich.

In conclusion, John Kricfalusi's quote provides valuable insight into the structural and creative challenges within the animation industry. His observation about compartmentalization sheds light on the complexities and limitations that can impact the quality of cartoons. While the industry continues to evolve, it is essential for creators, artists, and industry stakeholders to address these challenges and work towards fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, innovation, and artistic integrity in animated content.