Why Does Steven Universe Look SO GOOD?

Steven Universe, and its sequel series Steven Universe Future, are among the most beloved TV animations of all time, having been a huge success during its run on Cartoon Network, and earning its creator, Rebecca Sugar, worldwide acclaim. Today, we're going to break down one of the show's most valuable attributes: its art style!
Join me in analysing and celebrating the distinctive stylings of Steven Universe!
#stevenuniverse #cartoonnetwork
0:00 - 8:37 Intro
8:37 - 23:35 Part 1
23:35 - 32:16 Part 2 Design
32:16 - 40:22 Part 3 Backgrounds
40:22 - 47:54 Part 4 Character Design
47:54 - 53:14 Part 5 Storyboards
53:14 - 1:01:30 Part 6 Overseas & Outro
The Wacky Delhi's CalArts vid: • The Ultimate Calarts S...
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Music:
(Disclaimer--this video took months to make and my previous laptop died halfway through making this, so I don't have all the music names and files but I've done my best to grab the ones I could and list them below)
Various royalty-free tracks from @LuKremBo
Various royalty-free tracks from Panda Beats pandabeatsmusic.com/
Lobster, Homeworld / theofficiallobst
Home, We're Finally Landing midwestcollective.bandcamp.co...
Lobster, Overture / theofficiallobst
Just a bunch of stuff from this playlist: • No Copyright Synthwave...

[@shirakorimio1363]

Terrific video! A quick correction: Impressionism is not what you described, but I get the idea you are going for. His work is only close to impressionism in it's sensitive color observation and pushing of color depth. Impressionism is about capturing fleeting moments with little emphasis on precise form. It allows visible brushstrokes and is designed to be made quickly. It was made as a rejection of the french Salon's idea of academically viable art. Starting from there will give you a better, more correct outlook on what impressionosm is and how it does and does not inform modern artist's work. It influences most work, but even as an animator, Kevin Hart's work is not specifically Impressionism. The focus on light's impact on color is the only impressionistic thing about his work, but the rest of the design isn't quite in-line with the stylistic consoderations of that art movement. All the best!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much for the clarification, I hope you don't mind that I've pinned this comment so others can see it!

[@Shiafuji]

What would be a better way to call it?

[@morganlinesart9625]

I would probably call what Dart is doing with his reduction of complex figures and forms into shapes a form of abstraction or simplification.

[@featherlight2652]

I remember when I was a kid and I’d keep hearing about how Steven universe was an ugly, or bad show. I would always look at the show and think “wtf are they talking about??” Steven universe was such a massive inspiration for me art wise. I’m glad people are finally talking about it in a good way.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

I really feel like something about the vibe of Steven Universe just makes some people irrationally angry. I don't know if it's just the overt queerness of it, or the magical girl inspiration, or the predominant use of pinks and blues, but it just makes a certain kind of person annoyed. And a lot of people, instead of interrogating where that knee-jerk response comes from, will instead perform the most insane mental gymnastics to justify that anger

[@martythemartian99]

Yeah, you are right. It may be true that early shots of Steven with snot pouring out of his nose like a river were kind of unattractive, but I remember thinking from my first day of watching, "Wow! Look at those clouds." The air brush style was truly stunning. I guess we have Steven Sugar to thank. :)

[@janaekelis]

@@CurmudgeonMedia "certain kind of person" is completely well said

[@aka5244]

Song name @32:30 please!!!!!

[@martythemartian99]

@@aka5244 Sounds a little like an original piece using lifts from Being Human.

[@pieflower6419]

When you click on a video essay about Steven Universe and they don't even say the name of the show for the first five minutes but rather explain the history of animation, that's when you know the video's going to be good xD

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Sometimes you gotta take 'em on a JOURNEY

[@lavalambchops]

Yeah absolutely, I almost forgot it as about Steven universe and when that's when it became clear that's what it was, I was very pleasantly surprised cuz I knew it was a treat

[@commonviewer2488]

This show is overly hated. It was a slice of life with magic aliens sprinkled in until it became the main focus. The show was intended for kids, so it didn't delve too deep into the moral complexities of immortal alien overlords, just Steven continuing to do as he'd always done. There are valid criticisms to be had: some plot points and episodes do feel like a total waste, Steven is overly optimistic of the idea of everyone being redeemable (anyone _could_ be redeemed, but some lack the ability to admit fault), and Future had some rather abrupt developments that were quickly resolved. To say the show is in general a bad story with bad morals is dishonest. Hope more people who received the show well do speak out against gross misinterpretation.

[@cael_aj]

I watched another video on Steven Universe's soft world building (I'll try to find the name of the creator and post it in another comment) that really opened my eyes to the fact that even in the first season, most of the episodes had important information. It's just that it didn't tell you that it was important. It was subtly introducing ideas that would be important later. I'm rewatching the show now and definitely noticed that. The whole arch was carefully planned from the beginning, and that first season was just carefully introducing the kids watching to the more difficult to understand ideas, sprinkling them in with otherwise fun slice-of-life adventures.

[@cael_aj]

I think it was the video "Does Steven Universe really have filler?" By James Woodall.

[@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769]

Using "it's a kids cartoon" as an excuse for something doesn't work since the show already did things you wouldn't normally expect from a kids cartoon.

[@BenDover-xw7dv]

Steven might be overly optimistic about hoping everyone can be redeemed, but the show never is - plenty of antagonists simply refuse to change, and the ones that do always have a good, practical reason for it. Steven's compassionate personality isn't a flaw of the show, it's a vital part of his character. The idea that that's a valid criticism is just another example of the brainrotten hate people stirred up during its run. You're allowed to *dislike* the fact that this is the core of the show, but that isn't something that should be changed about it

[@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769]

@@BenDover-xw7dv I think Steven talking the Diamonds into giving up all of their power is very different then him just forgiving them and moving on. Future's added context makes the show look a lot better

[@fntthesmth423]

Dodging bad hot takes of Steven Universe became a nessessary hobby of mine for like a whole decade cuz I realized early on that there was little to be gained watching them, but something like this is great! It really helps me appreciate a show I loved even more :)

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for watching! 💜

[@2triedforthis830]

As someone who watched the show very late like I just fished the show a week ago, I’ve seen all the people hating it or calling it the worse show, saying it was ugly, or rose quartz is some kind of irredeemable asshole. But after finishing it, and also future, I can safely say it’s one of my favorite shows. I literally can’t fathom how so many people hated the ending or literally everything about it even the art. I noticed the height inconsistently a lot and yeah it was a little bothersome, or the rushed ending of the show. But I still think the last so of the show is my top 3 favorite eps of the entire series. It’s so well animated and just a kick in heart when Steven “beats” the diamonds. I mean it’s not like he could kill them or really stop them. He doesn’t even like or forgive any of them especially white diamond. And the “there’s so much filler”. As someone who watches a lot of plot filled shows, sometimes there’s not alot of eps that flesh out the characters. You have to love the town and the people in it, or the main characters too. Like the whole barn arc was pretty long when I was watching it, I felt that it dragged out a bit, but if it wasn’t I wouldn’t have had peridot as my favorite character in the series. I only think s5 shouldn’t have had that many filler eps tbh it was a little much. But anyway, great show and I’m pretty upset at the over hate it’s built up..

[@tsukodome6132]

Not only LOOKED beautiful it SOUNDED beautiful too! the way the sound design and soundtracks as almost out of this world. My absolute FAVORITE ones when they are using "synths" sounds for the diamonds or the the introduction to lapis. it was so good!!! Edit: Finished the video! Well done essay and discussion you got there! It seems that some people or new veiwers realized how VERY unfair overhate and dumb ciritism's to this show. I love that, what good timeline I'm in. Good job!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed! When I sat down to make this video, I knew ahead of time that I had to go extra on the sound and music. Steven Universe is such a music show, it would be such a shame not to capture the spirit of that in some way

[@janedoe3043]

Let's be frank, we live in an era where people say something is bad because they don't like the message. People hate kn this show because it's very feminine, it's very emotional, its anti toxicity, it's about empathy, and it's pro-lgbt. That's the real reaso. People atrack it. These same people aren't complaining about the animation on Paw Patrol.

[@dr7226]

id disagree, most of the hate ive seen comes from the ending which is fair as it betrays basically all messages the show had regarding lgbtq topics and empathy and love

[@DannyPageOfLight]

I remember a Tumblr post that was going around back in the day. Someone had made a image with eight different characters from western media using the alleged "Cal Arts Style" that had all of them having the same silhouette and smile. Someone reblogged it to point out that the collection of faces was deliberately drawn to make them all look alike and made a new image of the same heads but in their shows' proper native styles, even making another version with all of them blacked out so that only the silhouettes could be seen, noting that you can still easily tell who is who just by the silhouettes alone. And then another reblogged it and, just to be silly, colored in all the silhouettes to make them Dipper.

[@Pablo360able]

I love how tumblr users play with jpegs like dolls.

[@kylierosee]

it is so refreshing to hear someone talk positively about the way steven universe looks

[@adamrattray4954]

Excellent video. I always hated how much bad faith criticism was leveled at Steven Universe during its run. I’m glad to say that time has vindicated the series and it’s wonderful to see people like you giving the credit it deserves. Once again, amazing video, keep up the great work.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks sm!

[@cescimes]

i remember talking with my friend sometimes about SU, he really, really loved it. how he loved Peridot and whatnot, how he hated waiting for the new episodes... i tried watching the show then, and i tried doing it again a bit later, couldn't stick with it even to the end of season 1. I'm not sure why, exactly. well, i mean i have an idea - it was around the time the hatetrain started, and i was scared of challenging my actual identity too much. i wasn't hating on it, but i did distance myself. today, I've finished it all, for the first time. i love Steven Universe. i love Peridot! I'll let him know that ❤

[@2triedforthis830]

YESSSS! I started very late as well I just fished the series a week ago and it’s one of my favorites and yes peridot is the best gem. I also know abt the absolute hate this show has gotten and im not even bias or anything but it makes no sense, you can dislike a show, but gaining so much hate as to say its the worse show on cn drives me crazy. I didn’t really watch it because of that as well but I wanted to give it a try to see for myself and man I’m so glad I did.

[@user-mi5hg7co2s]

the steven universe hate was insanee. i'm glad we seem to be moving past that. the show's visuals are spectacular so it makes me happy they're getting the spotlight they deserve. fantastic video

[@nightmareeyes2083]

I never understood how and why people hated the show. I did understand that people had opinions on the consitency, story, and style, but I never saw the why part. Why hate something that had so much time and love poured in it? Why hate on trying to make a design slick and simple yet full of personality? Why hate on a story that though flawed and not at all perfect, held so much meaning and reason and connection and take on humanity and kindness. Thank you for taking the time to share your appreciation of it's style and direction, it means a lot

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Glad you enjoyed, and thanks for watching!

[@gravelordnito3670]

I understand disliking Steven universe for the corny unfunny parts but criticizing the art is insane to me. One of the most beautiful cartoons I’ve ever watched

[@laszlokaszas1003]

I don't know from where all this Steven Universe praise videos come from, but I couldn't be happier about them.

[@thegreatmajora5089]

As someone who's studying to become a storyboarder, seeing you praise the show's approach to them was so refreshing ! I love how dynamic this show could get visually, and seeing so many people complain about nitpicks like staying right on model or the faces being a bit off sometimes made it so weird for me, because I felt like I was appreciating a part of the show I should've been critical of. Digging into the less spoken about creators and shining a light on their work was also very cool - I've found a few I'm going to follow from this video !

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Honestly, the idea of complaining about the storyboard-driven approach is so weird to me, and such an unfair criticism to boot. People will clutch at whatever straws they have to dunk on this show, and I wasn't standing for it lmao 😂 Thanks for watching though, and I'm happy you found some new artists to keep an eye on! Do you have an Instagram or online space where you post your art?

[@caitrose2198]

46:55 When people talk about that one shot of Connie's head looking big it drives me insane because if you think about it for like three seconds its very obviously FORESHORTENING. You know, the basic art technique where you draw nearer things bigger? Steven's head looks proportionally big too. Probably because the camera is ABOVE THEIR HEADS because they are LOOKING AT THE SKY, making their heads CLOSER TO THE CAMERA than their bodies. FFS. also, y'know, it doesn't matter because cartoons are off model sometimes thats how this shit works.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

say it louder for the people in the back lol. people just wanted to hate

[@EnbyNomad]

I saw the Noti and audibly went "THANK YOU Curmudgeon" With so much hate for SU going around for years, hearing a trusted voice sing the praises of it's triumphs was long overdue. I cannot wait to watch this.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

i hope you enjoy! I've been working on this for several months

[@hipsilopodon3752]

That's maybe why some people dislike SU; because it's so emotional and has this personal feeling that for some it couod be overwhelming to experience.

[@KingYou2002]

Especially people who make these long ass videos dunking on the series.

[@Dudex11a]

I'm happy to see someone else curious about this! I've also been wondering about this for a while, not just with Steven Universe, but with other emotionally rich topics (usually with art or media that portrays (what I view as) more realistic consequences of healthy or dysfunctional relationships between people).

[@gh.stb12rd]

​@@Dudex11athe age of irony has taken us over, theres so much information that to sit with it and actually process it would be detrimental to us. All of the problems of the world are in front of our faces. We have quickly been taught, by our own brains and our communities at large, that the only way of surviving is to stop caring, to joke around and keep everything surface level, sarcastic, ironic. When someone is earnest, it awakens this very primal sense of fear, shakes our entire worldview. 'If this silly show cares about something so silly why shouldnt i care about all the horrible things going on, if i dont care that reflects on me as a person, what if i am bad person?' Cant have that train of thought without getting defensive, so we shun earnestness, we call it cringe, or if your circle is not adapted for shunning things for being cringe, then you gotta find something to call it 'problematic'. the reason why we need to shut it down is not really important, the important thing is that its shut down, and our worldview of numbness and irony remains without doubt or uncertainty

[@tink6225]

not overwhelming as much as people aren't ready to confront those emotions it bring out of them

[@moviemaestro800]

Didn't know about Sugar's comic surrounding Simpsons quotes, and now if you'll excuse me while I go and ugly cry over its content.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Same fr 😭

[@paigelego4027]

Ok as someone who was in the fandom and saw the ‘off model’ complaints and birth of the ‘SU critical’ from the ground, let me just say…This is the video essay I have been looking for for literal years! The myopic view that a single off model frame was enough to suggest that the show was lazy or careless just drove me bonkers but I couldn’t describe why. And the anger at the ‘lack’ of writers instead of appreciation of how much the visual medium of the show was used to the fullest…I’m just so glad people are finally starting to appreciate SU again. It’s like an old friend reconnecting 😊

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

for real, a show being storyboard-driven does not mean it has a "lack of writers." It just means it's written by the same people who draw the storyboards. Funnily enough, illustrators & animators can be great writers too, those ideas are not mutually exclusive lmao

[@lunareclipse623]

Uhh, this was supposed to be a short comment to help other people find this video. Ended up being a huge rant lol. I have finally watched this show, and it's so...sweet? I totally agree with what you said in the beginning about the Lily orchard video. I avoided the series for years because of it. It's obvious when you actually watch the show how much heart went into it. when I started it I expected it to be rushed, for everyone to just fall at Steven's feet as soon as he asked them to stop. That doesn't happen, there are stakes, everyone doesnt just become best buddies by the end of the episode. They can change their perspective, but they dont change character completely. Lapis, peridot, spinel, and many other characters go through arcs that help them be better gems while still being that specific character. Hell characters like Jasper don't even change perspective that much, they just stop being a threat

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

LET IT BE A HUGE RANT, I MEAN LOOK AT ME I MEANT TO MAKE A 20 MINUTE VIDEO ABOUT HOW COOL STEVEN UNIVERSE LOOKS AND IT TURNED INTO AN HOUR-LONG DEEP-DIVE

[@2triedforthis830]

I feel the same way!? I just don’t understand this show is so emotional and has a really good plot and the ending isn’t even that bad?? The inconsistency is also not really that big of a deal imo even though it kind bothers me at times, I just ignored it. The songs, music bg the characters all wonderful. I especially loved period or and pearl who go through massive arcs that take awhile to finally reach something, pearl too. And rose quartz isn’t some villain the internet made her out to be, she’s a flawed, morally grey character whose story was shown backwards from us which is so genius. Man I’m just glad people like us who binge it can feel like this show wasn’t as bad as ppl made it out to be, it must have sucked to be an og fan though…

[@GiulianaBruna]

I'm thankful for the positive attention SU is receiving. The crew obviously made it with so much love and care and it didn't deserved the bad faith criticism and hate they received. I think it was inevitable and that it came in a breaking point in animation, going "too far" and "not far enough" at the same time. People loved and hated it "too much" so talking about it became "cringe" at some point. I'm glad we are moving past all that, and maybe new generations get into it because it is iconic.

[@toon4thought]

This is the kind of look at a work of art that we as a society don't do enough. And I'm really grateful that you dug as deep as you did, and in such a loving, well-presented way at that. You are awesome, Tom - destined to do amazing things of your own with how deep your love of Rebecca Sugar runs. NEVER forget that.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks man ❤️

[@the.chekhov]

Hey, thanks for making this video! I'm really glad to have all of this put together so cleanly and so CLEARLY! You have a really great voice and natural timing that makes it easy to listen to. I'm really hoping that this catches more attention because I feel like now that we're past the BAD Steven Universe analysis the healthy, reasonable analysis of this great show can finally take place. Also legit laughed at "there are so few photos of this man istfg". Sorry about your lack of Danny Hynes 😂

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for the kind words! As for Danny Hynes, not only were there so few pictures, they were all crunchy and low res :')

[@headfunk5646]

when I was a kid I always found solace and comfort in SU's scenery and backgrounds, especially if it was characters just existing in these beautiful spaces to a point where I would make entire collections to help myself calm down. It's been years but every now and then I still draw the sky in a similar way as the show does and think back on those moments edit: I really love how you edited this video btw, something I always loved seeing people do in video essays is when they craft their own unique atmosphere in the process

[@tink6225]

As a child my siblings and I loved Steven universe. I'm grateful to have experienced the show without any outside criticism or hate as I wasn't on the internet at the time.

[@palomaroggeri8680]

It is a crime this has so little views, this video is amazing, as an artist that loves Steven Universe, thank you so much for making this.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

That's very kind of you to say! Thanks for watching 💜

[@dstyKchp]

Honestly looking at the "bean mouth argument" now that I've been a proper artist for a year and a half-ish that form of head is one of the simplest ways of drawing the head aside from the circle. There's nothing wrong with it and showcasing it with adventure time is really stupid too. Adventure time has many head styles finn for example a rounded sort of rectangle shape. And for gumball it's even more dumb. Sure, the main cast have that style but gumball has a lot of character styles and designs so it's not really a fair argument.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

You're literally so right, it's such a reductive argument in so many ways

[@dstyKchp]

​@@CurmudgeonMedia I learned this all from like several lessons for drawing heads it's the best compromise between simplicity and detail and expression for a show like this lol Ps: love the video soo much I've been watching the show since it came out (I was 6 then and I looove the positive discussion that came after the show has winded down a little) Also wanted to ask where you got the other footage for storyboards. I have gem glow but 0 idea where you got the rest

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@dstyKchp the main shows I pulled from for any crew-related stuff were Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken, Shirobako, and the Big City Greens episode "Animation Abomination"

[@dstyKchp]

@@CurmudgeonMedia thanks!

[@uraveragesheit4590]

before watching steven universe, when id make backrounds and characters id always think of them as just my characters and my drawings. but now because of how infuelcial this show was on my whole style, i always think "what kind of people would hang out in this backround?" or "what would this character do in this space?" it may seem silly to think of these small details for characters but, just thinking about what clothes they have in their closet, or what groups of people they hang out with. it helps me map out how theyd act or what theyd wear, even if its a character ill draw only a couple times

[@alisonmcalistair]

You’ve earned yourself a subscriber and here’s why: This video was so excellently researched, structured, and composed. It made me think of a piece of art that I care about in an entirely new way, and I’m certain that I will keep what I learned today in mind during future rewatches. Your editing style is relaxing yet kept my attention the entire time! When I checked to see how many likes this video had, I was astonished that it came from a relatively smaller channel because it is of the same quality as a trending video from a 1M+ channel. I am looking forward to watching your previous videos and to seeing what comes next from this channel!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for the kind words, glad you enjoyed it! I put a lot of work into this video

[@sneedygidget]

Your video is practically a love letter to the hard work and emotion behind this show! I really enjoyed your exploration of each facet of the artstyle and artwork as someone who would like to delve further into digital and traditional art. It is also really nice to see another positive voice geared toward this show and evidence of this show's impact on its viewers in inspiring them to create and analyze art. Lovely vid !!

[@TheChillMethod]

I was actually surprised to find that i wasn't already subbed as i'm sure I've seen other videos that you've done. Genuinely thankful that there exists people on youtube willing to discuss topics with as much love and care that you do.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much!

[@TragicSun]

This was such a delightful tribute to Steven Universe, thank you for making it :^) you put a lot of research, insight and love. Since the very first episode of the series, it was inevitable for me to be instantly caught on its beauty, and as silly as it sounds, one of the first things that happened was becoming curious about this creative vision, just wanting to know more, for how personal and inspiring it felt.. I am someone who makes art, both with painting and music, and SU is so encouraging.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Glad you enjoyed, and thank you for the support! This video was for sure a huge passion project for me

[@MathWizHQ]

Very entertaining and insightful discussion! This is a minor observation, but props for making a video about animation production and not relying heavily on Shirobako for visual references lol

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

I did rely heavily on Eizouken though lmao, Eizouken and the Big City Greens episode "animation abomination" were VERY helpful

[@-themightymittens-]

"Lovely little squishy nugget baby" I'm using this description from now on XD

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

as you should

[@OldFriendisHere]

This has to be the most interessting and in depth look at this show ive seen. Fantastic work!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks dude!

[@kurathchibicrystalkitty5146]

I watched Hiding in Private's videos on Steven Universe last month, and then found this one by chance recently. I'm so glad that more and more people are expressing love for it and defying the deluge of hatred, mockery, and outright contempt the show has received over the years. I find it so ironic that such a beautiful show about all different kinds of love, freedom, acceptance, and compassion ended up with one of the most devastating amounts of hate I've ever seen. Steven Universe is, without question, not only my favourite show of all time, but one of my favourite stories of all time. Thank you so much for making this video. If you don't mind me asking, what're your top 15--20 favourite episodes? 😁

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Unfortunately, it's exactly those values of love, freedom, acceptance, and compassion that specifically bother a certain kind of bad-faith critic. There's an overt queerness to the show, and it's presented in a more "effeminate" way than other shows of its ilk (I put "effeminate" in inverted commas because I don't actually think it IS effeminate -- I think it transcends heteronormative ideas of gender, but the show's primary critics view it through exactly that kind of heteronormative lens). The light pinks and blues and general pastelle aesthetic, in conjunction with its commitment to a high degree of emotional openness, just really riles up a lot of people who would rather search for any reason at all to legitimise their irrational hatred of the show than interrogate where their knee-jerk reaction comes from. As for favourite episodes, that's a good question. In no particular order... Mr Greg The Future In Dreams Growing Pains Together Forever Mindful Education Sadie Killer On the Run Rose's Scabbard Lion 3: Straight to Video Cheeseburger Backpack Bismuth A Single Pale Rose We Need to Talk Keystone Motel Ocean Gem

[@kurathchibicrystalkitty5146]

@@CurmudgeonMedia The 'emotional openness' you spoke of, that's something I wish that more stories had. It's kind of refreshing, when so much of media has characters in varying degrees of stilted emotional duress, and worse. Stories reflect reality back at us, so any story that reflects back how crucial that openness is, that ability to say, 'feelings are important, and it's okay to be vulnerable', it gives me hope for the future [pun intended]. I also wish some days that I could've watched SU growing up, it would've shattered the sky of my poor sheltered 'panromantic + enby + asexual' self, and, most importantly, given me something to latch onto, given me hope, when I desperately needed it the most. I knew I wasn't cis or straight, but I didn't know there were any other options; I had literally no reference to anything else aside from a handful of things like CLAMP manga that had a couple of genderless protagonists that I adored without fully knowing why. I didn't even know that 'asexual' could be applied to humans until six or seven years ago. It was very frustrating, knowing that the "expected" terms didn't apply to me, but not knowing other terms existed, so I couldn't articulate any of it. Oh, I didn't mean to go on a personal ramble. What I want to express is that I'm truly happy that SU, and other shows like She-Ra, Kipo, Owl House, and more, exist. Ah! We have similar taste in episodes, wonderful! 😄

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@kurathchibicrystalkitty5146 if you haven't seen Wolfwalkers, the queercoding in that movie is REAL. It's also just a hella superb film

[@raexiu]

i appreciate the conversation abt how “real” and chronical events are. for example, it takes days to fix something, and little unnoticeable marks like signs and sticky notes stay. things that seem frequently used and moved around but never put away… it added to the realism of rose’s death. there’s not a lot of closure. she’s just gone and the ones left behind just have to sort through their trauma and live on. but even with that harshness, there’s still beauty and worth to life / reality.

[@dstyKchp]

Im surprised this 1 hour video has gotten little traction it's so great subbing for whatever you guys are making!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much! honestly, any help getting this video out there for people to see would be much appreciated--making videos like this takes time, and the more people that see it, the better

[@dstyKchp]

@@CurmudgeonMedia I understand where that came from I just finished the video and take your time haha I just hope I get notifications. KZbin absolutely sucks at that

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@dstyKchp it really does lol c':

[@JoelTheParrot]

my first impression is just the loose usage of colour 36:32 gave me chills I was definitely only scraping the surface, thanks for the great video =)

[@AidensLifeDocumented]

DUDE WTF WHAT AN AMAZING INTRO like i didnt even relize i was watching a SU video essay until you bringed it back to the main subject area thats ca=razy bro keep up the good work

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks sm!

[@hope7317]

the way your footage in the bg perfectly matched the script is scary good

[@ghosttornado]

This is so high quality that its kinda scary

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Omg well I'm glad you like it, I worked really hard to make it the best it could be!

[@LadyKatyRae]

I know there have been multiple discussions about the appearance of individual frames and character consistency, but honestly overall, Steven Universe is one of the most beautiful shows on Cartoon Network since Samurai Jack. The use of color and design and the small details you find make it something so special. There hasn't been anything like it. Cartoon Networks mishandling of it made it difficult for viewers and I think that's one of the reasons people are so polarized by discussions about it and why there is so much discourse. Its a lovely show visually, the story is compelling, and I dont think it overstayed its welcome or dragged to the point of annoyance. I hesitate to say its perfect, it does have its own share of flaws. But there isnt a product out there that doesnt.

[@BluBurryRae]

Wow. As an artist myself I walked away from this with so much that I didn't know before, and an entirely new appreciation for not only animators, artists, the animation industry, but YOU. Usually it's hard to get things to stick with me. I have to rewatch even the masters over and over again. But there's just something about the way you speak and explain things that jas me hooked on and remembering every word. I'm exactly 34 minutes and fifty-six seconds in and you've truly earned a subscriber.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much for the kind words, I'm really glad you enjoyed the vid!!

[@sarahmenn4843]

as an art student currently going for visual storytelling, this show has opened my eyes to what I want in my future career as an artist. This show was built on love and had immense care through every single aspect. Truly shows what can be accomplished with love for your craft.

[@sabresister]

The background art was always my favorite part of the show. They all have such a relaxing quality to them.

[@Baldwin-iv445]

I've never been the biggest fan of this series, even as a kid (I was always a Gumball guy) but I can never deny how incredible the animation is and Rebecca sugars talent. I hope she finds more success in the industry.

[@Rolli_Zolli]

Oh, I've been waiting for this one since you mentioned it on one of Kavi's Owl House streams!! SU has been one of the most important pieces of media to me throughout these past 10 years, and I'm so excited to see your take on it. :3

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

I hope you enjoy! It's a real labour of love

[@Rolli_Zolli]

​@@CurmudgeonMediaI can really tell, this video felt like it came straight from the heart. Well worth the wait, can't wait to see more from y'all!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@Rolli_Zolli thank uuuu 🥺

[@boglarkarebay]

I just LOVE the vibe of this show. I’ve barely visited any seashores myself, but watching Steven Universe made me nostalgic for times I’ve never lived…

[@DonnyKirkMusic]

So glad you mentioned the anime influence on the calarts style! The beanheads are very Tezuka-esque

[@Strawberry_Gothic]

Love this! This video was so pleasant to watch! I’ve always liked Steven Universe and honestly all the hate the show got really made me feel stupid for liking it so much, thank you for showing off all the amazing things the show has to offer, and the things I wish other people were able to see! Also I wish more people would realize this show was made for a younger audience,they weren’t just gonna throw in a super deep and dramatic storyline, there were always going to be silly gags and stuff,either way,fantastic video! ❤

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed! truth be told, I think Steven Universe DOES have a deep and meaningful storyline, it just does it on its own terms. It's a magical realist show about love and empathy. It was never a show that was going to end with a big fight and the good guys winning by killing the bad guys. That would be antithetical to the emotional nuance of the show. The people who make you feel stupid for liking it are mad that the show isn't a different show entirely. It's not Man in the High Castle--in was never meant to be a meditation on authoritarianism. It's a very personal story with very personal stakes, and it's excellent at it.

[@Strawberry_Gothic]

@@CurmudgeonMedia Yes! Sorry, Thant’s more how I meant to phrase it, it does have a deep storyline, I meant more that I feel like some people held it up to the standards of more adult shows, and expected the crew to just drop all jokes and gags and make the story super dark (at least that’s what I saw some ppl hoping for online),but thank you for saying it more how I meant to!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@Strawberry_Gothic bottom line is, don't let people make you feel stupid for enjoying something you care about and which means something to you!

[@kurathchibicrystalkitty5146]

@@CurmudgeonMedia That's an extremely important life lesson. Maybe if more people were taught this when young, the world could be one step closer to being a far better place.

[@Emhen456]

You could say that every person, every hand that was apart of the creation of this, was a facet in the gem that is this show :) ❤

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

100% !!

[@Jr837_]

16:20 wow I was *not* expecting a Drawfee cameo here lmao

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

I still feel so bad for including Drawfee in that context, I love Drawfee and that video is 100% one of my favourites, it just happened to be a good example of what I was trying to talk about :')

[@diegogutierrez7149]

Nearly 40 minutes of pure art talk?! Dude, The last like 35 minutes of my life. Watching this video has been some of the most- It's just so beautifully and eloquently and considerately crafted. Good job! (I really wanted to send this message before you started talking about the characters. I think the characters are so odd so I didn't want that part to pollute my mind before I could say the nice thing)

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

well I'm glad you liked at least *part* of my video c': for reals though thanks for the lovely comment, I put a lot of love into this video and I'm glad you're enjoying it

[@jamtyx4170]

I really appreciate your commitment to shining a spotlight on the more obscure, aspects of Steven universe, especially when it came to the Crewniverse. As you mentioned. It can be really easy to lump, everything on a single person when it comes too some of our favorite creations. it's just so easy to forget and sometimes to imagine that there's such a large crew behind all the works that we love. From the bottom of my heart, I truly appreciate all the love, passion and commitment you put into this video. You have truly created something beautiful here. Keep up the great work. (I ❤️ Steven universe)

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

This comment made my morning 💜

[@dyllon_writer]

The effort and care that was put in this as a whole shows very clearly. It's so refreshing to hear someone talk about steven universe in such an honest and positive way

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for watching!

[@goldegreen]

For those who *are* interested in a takedown of the Lily Orchard video, Hiding in Private has a few *very lengthy* videos about defending the show against bad-faith videos, including that one.

[@moviemaestro800]

Commenting again, for the sake of praising how well-made of an essay this was, and also in an attempt to give this vid a much-needed boost for the algorithm, precisely because it's so well-made.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks so much 🙏 any help at all getting this video out there is much appreciated, in case you feel like sharing it around on fan pages or social media or whatever! ❤️

[@moviemaestro800]

@@CurmudgeonMedia I have just done so on the Hiding in Private channel, which has recently started making its own fully scripted and professionally edited video essays on the series. Different approach to this one, but similarly encouraging, as more positive intellectual coverage of this series is desperately needed, if you ask me. Hope it helps. 😉

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

@@moviemaestro800 thanks sm ❤️

[@J3ymzi]

Absolutley incredible choice of shots from the show to represent what you are talking about! Must have taken ages to remember and find such soecific moments.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks so much! That aspect of it definitely did take a while at times haha

[@Binchaloo]

I would've thought this was a video with 1M. The quality of the editing and commentary is immaculate. Happy to be here Watching

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much! comments like these are honestly worth more to me than 1m views

[@avradio0b]

I think folks focus in on the nitty-gritty details when that's the only thing they're able to communicate. Either they can't see the larger picture (design, story, etc.) or they can't put it into words. It's certainly a lot easier for a casual viewer to see "model size different" than it is for them to comment on the influence of impressionism. I think SU has a lot of things in its story that are bittersweet or emotionally complicated. I might see the Rose Quartz "backwards" character development throughout the show (so to speak) as brilliant, but another person might take it as a betrayal. And it is, to a certain extent, meant to be a betrayal, but that might not be what someone wanted to see in the show. But stuff like that can be hard to put into words (and I'm not even sure I explained it well), so it's simpler to focus on the tiny things that you can see as a way of saying "show bad", even though they don't matter, they don't make the show bad, and they're unrelated to your own feelings about the show in the first place.

[@pinkray2090]

Finally! A very well-put-together video explaining Steven Universe!! I just wish this came 3-4 years ago (when all the ridiculous hate was flooding in)! 😂😂😂

[@Charlie-kp1sn]

hey ! steven universe is by far my favorite show of all time, and im about to pass an oral exam to attend Gobelins next year, i planned on talking about SU during it, especially its beautiful backgrounds. And while i love it, i was having a hard time organising my thoughts to properly speak about it, and this viedo just came as a gift to me ! you did an amazing job, and thank you !

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

this is very flattering, thank you! and best of luck with your exam!

[@DusieWoozie]

I love seeing for the first time the familial love that the crewniverse shares and how they made Steven Universe with such love and thought. I also love seeing all the love and effort put into making this video essay, cause man finding those clips for each thing you said doesn't sound easy. XD Plus having to fact check as well as find the answers to some reasons why others might disagree with you, can be time consuming, especially the editing! XD But either way it was a fun watch, thank you.

[@tossingturnips]

Strange that KZbin recommended this video as I hadn't consumed a piece of SU media in quite some time. My opinions on it have fluctuated over the years, but I've always come back to the initial impression when I first discovered it: "wow, what an incredibly stunning and well crafted show." It really just had the most love and thought put into its use of visuals to enrich the story it told. Good work in putting this video together and so thoroughly articulating the reasons for your opinions. Speaking of, I did love the bit where you cut to the same Holly Blue Agate clip before editorializing. I'm glad I watched this. It helped flush out any former bad faith takes that lingered on in the back of my mind. Kudos to you once more.

[@sketchyartz5167]

Steven universe had a huge influence on my art, I used to only draw animals but I started drawing people because of it and it’s kind of all I draw now. My style has developed but it still has a little hint of the SU style in it and I don’t think I ever really wanna get rid of that :)

[@GloomyFish]

the backgrounds of SU inspired me so much, i was literally in awe of them. still am thank you for this video, it's so nice to see love for this show after all the hate it got

[@jelliejem]

This video is making me want to actually sit down and read my Steven Universe art book a friend bought for me years ago. Thanks for this video!

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks for watching! As a frequenter of art books, I'll say that the two SU art books are the best I've ever read. Some art books can be kind of rambly or boring to read, but the SU: Art and Origins and End of an Era both contain so much interesting, raw material that narrativizes the content perfectly. I've read both cover to cover twice now, they're among my most treasured possessions

[@Nameless_mixes]

My only issue with the inconsistencies amongst the series comes with the heights. You can change everything else you want about the characters. But in my book, I want characters’ heights to remain the same in proportion to each other. I don’t want to have to play a guessing game over which ones are canonically taller, shorter, or the same height. Other than that, I’m not too off put by issues in size and shape.

[@Sammy_The_Umbreon]

42:43 the video is good, great even, but then you just send me through vivid flashbacks of my art classes.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

lmao fair play my dude, sorry for the trauma

[@user-GotoDethsu]

I still adore steven universe world, that magical wonder-like feeling I feel when I see the background and listening to wonderful music, is something that impacted my imagination for so long. It’s one of the best cartoon I’ve ever seen to this day.

[@baosia]

I'm glad one of my favorite moments made it in at the last moment there. Steven holding his breakfast, cut to Garnet, cut back to Steven, now looking like he's been left in the sun to melt in a car for 20 minutes. Number one, it's a silly gag, it makes me laugh, Number B, something about that silly drawing really conveys the feeling of being robbed of a payoff you've imagined was a sure hit.

[@beesnuts2918]

this was such a breath of fresh air

[@robinnewmiller2713]

This is a really well done video. I can tell you put a lot of love into it. I've always loved animation but analysis like this helps me put to words WHY I love animation.

[@donuttheperson]

lily orchard is annoying

[@Junosensei]

A lot of Steven Universe analysis videos out there do a good job of essentially reframing and talking about themes and characters in a way I mostly understand them already, put into words. This video is different. I feel like I've learned so much from it. Thank you for doing such a meticulous breakdown of the art of my favorite Western cartoon and its artists. I feel like my appreciation for the show has only grown thanks to you. I'm picky with my subs, but I love educational and artistic content. I'll be checking out more of your content and subscribe if I, as I suspect I will, like what I see.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks for watching! I really wanted to talk about the show in a way that I feel hadn't been done before, at least not in so much detail. I've got a few videos coming up, all of them on the longer side. I'm sort of done with making shorter videos and I just wanna make videos I'm proud of. When those videos will release, I'm not sure specifically, but I've finished the script for my next video project which I'll be working on as and when I can

[@Junosensei]

@@CurmudgeonMedia - If your other videos are as informative as this one, I look forward to it! Also, would it be possible for you to include some text in the corner of the screen citing titles of any sources you use (and page numbers when applicable)? Also, sources cited in the video description _or_ a linked spreadsheet? I know it's not always youtuber practice because no one's going to call smaller creators out for plagiarism (and you did properly mention many sources in your script), but it really is a practice we should normalize when it comes to informative video essays like this. Also, I've been responsible for science reporting before, so I recognize the value and necessity for a good bibliography. Sending lots of love~

[@luca_severo]

"It's been discussed to death and there is not a huge amount a person can add to that discoruse that's new or original" ~ proceeds to do a 1 hour video about it :)

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

i mean, the whole point of this video was to talk about the one element of it that I didn't think had been dissected in sufficient detail

[@robYT_]

yeeees ive always thought the backgrounds in the show were impeccable, so glad someone made a detailed breakdown, this video deserves way more views

[@user_314_andmore]

i've always loved this show's use of pastel colors and how lighting was depicted. especially involving water. wonderful video!

[@looooo24]

the editing of this video is so great ^^ i rlly love the clips being loosely related to what is being discussed on the video

[@jaymchap]

Thanks for taking the time to make this as much of a wonderfully-aesthetic experience as the show is, itself

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

glad you enjoyed, thanks for watching!

[@Galaxxi]

I meant to watch this while drawing but it was so immediately captivating I just saw here and watched the whole thing instead. This really goes in depth to why SU is the beautiful show that it is, I can't say anything better than you have but... Wow. This video should have like 2 million views.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks so much! comments like these are way better than 2 million views

[@espressokid3901]

so insightful! i’m also so interested in the process and i especially love how you give credits to the INDIVIDUAL artists working on the show-rebecca sugar gets all the hate AND love, and with the way some ppl talk abt them you’d think they’re the sole creator. for more behind-the-scenes, i recommend listening to the steven universe podcast. so many people in different roles and positions just talk so passionately about their work and experiences being a part of the crew (episodes like ‘all by design’, ‘how it’s made’, ‘drawn to life’, give amazing insight, for example)

[@soupcube5962]

I love the pilot style so so much… it makes me sad that we didn’t get those designs…..

[@axelssantoso5667]

yesss thank you for making this ive never really seen anyone make a video solely discussing the beautiful art of this show because i had just finished this show 1-2 years ago and the thing that made me actually wanna go watch this show in 2022/23 besides a meme post is the art , i saw the album cover i think for the ost and man it just feels right and i try to not say this word when it comes to describing things but the vibes man just insane , this is one of the few times that i can legitimately feel the impact a color has on your work its literally the life behind steven universe's world the thing that makes it breathe just... man its so beautiful its kinda hard for me to describe it really , the town with all of its simplicity yet it feels lived it and steven's house in itself in the beach shore , and the characters seemingly having explored every corner of the town further helping in making it feel much more fleshed out , and the "soft" artstyle def helps a lot too in building the previously mentioned vibes , and man the song/bg music just further amplifies it even when its just a normal walking scene or steven doing something silly it just really makes those scenes stay in your memories for me , goddamn though even with all of its flaws i still have so much fond memories of this show looking back the little adventures that i feel like ive experienced myself along with the weird and quirky characters just makes this show feel whole to me , but yeah for me i think the best way to enjoy this show is to not take it too serious and just vibe with it , just live along w the characters and have fun

[@itsmaz7953]

Steven universe will be always a *MASTERPIECE NO MATTER WHAT*

[@PolineCommissionServices]

32:35 yo i wanna know who made this music, shit slaps

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

I did! That one is an original song I wrong specifically for this video c: basically this video is just a huge labour of love and Rebecca Sugar had released her EP while I was making it and it inspired me to sort of channel her bossa nova style

[@bwolff7364]

The research, analysis and commentary are incredible. Excellent in depth video essay, and refreshingly detailed. couldn't help but subscribe

[@pippochiri4547]

Such a great video. Thank you so much for giving me an even better understanding on one of my favorite aspects of a show that in the years truly helped me shape who i am happy to be today

[@ennasy7997]

never been so engaged in a youtube video in a while. lovely analysis and editing!

[@ImaSpinachLeaf]

As a delawarian, I’m so happy to know Delaware helped inspire the setting of my favorite show.

[@user-yf2bt1fr4c]

Thank you for making this , I literally cried and so moved by how beautiful SU is through how it was made.

[@gh.stb12rd]

Not even halfway in and the jacob blast cracked me up, i love drawfee and i love this video, youre funny as hell, got his ass straight LOL

[@Thalia_Pine]

amazing video! Steven Universe is absolutely one of my favorite shows

[@empty6080]

BANGER VIDEO😤😤

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thanks for watching! 💜

[@susmane3213]

Wonderful video

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

Thank you!

[@batteredthem]

I very much appreciate your commitment to mentioning and highlighting EVERYONE involved. I watch a lot of media criticism and it is INCREDIBLY rare to see someone mention more than just the creator or the studio as a whole without going into detail. Thank you! More people need to see this.

[@ponehanon]

Beautiful analysis! I enjoyed the extra bits of into (specially around the crew and their relationship with the Korean section of the animation team) and the nice song added during the background section.

[@CurmudgeonMedia]

thanks sm 🥺