The iconic rivalry between the mischievous cat and clever mouse is getting a fresh spin as Warner Bros Pictures Animation brings Tom and Jerry back to the big screen. Rashida Jones, Will McCormack, and Michael Govier are set to write the script for this new take on the beloved classic, signaling a revival that has fans eager to see what’s in store for the timeless duo.
Tom and Jerry first sprang to life in 1940, created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera at MGM. Over the course of 114 animated shorts, the series became a hallmark of slapstick humor, earning seven Academy Awards along the way. Despite MGM’s animation division closing its doors, the antics of Tom and Jerry endured, reimagined by legendary animators like Gene Deitch and Chuck Jones, and more recently in the 2021 hybrid live-action/animated film.
The humor of Tom and Jerry’s ongoing feud—marked by elaborate traps, clever escapes, and often cartoonishly exaggerated consequences—has sometimes drawn criticism for its slapstick violence. However, it remains a significant influence on generations of animators and writers, inspiring shows like The Simpsons and other beloved cartoons.
A New Creative Team with Fresh Vision
The creative team behind this new film brings an impressive pedigree. Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, known for their work on Celeste and Jesse Forever and Toy Story 4, bring their knack for heartfelt storytelling to the project. Joining them is Michael Govier, co-creator of the Oscar-winning short If Anything Happens I Love You, which poignantly captured audiences on Netflix. Together, they promise to deliver a version of Tom and Jerry that respects its roots while bringing something new to the table.
Jones and McCormack have proven their versatility across multiple mediums, from co-directing the Grammy-winning documentary Quincy, about Rashida’s legendary father Quincy Jones, to creating impactful short films like A Swim Lesson, which recently debuted at Telluride. Their ability to balance humor, heart, and a deep understanding of character makes them an exciting choice for reimagining Tom and Jerry.
Nostalgia Meets Modern Storytelling
For many, Tom and Jerry conjure memories of lazy Saturday mornings filled with laughter, as Tom’s schemes to catch Jerry hilariously backfired. With this new iteration, fans can look forward to revisiting the classic dynamics of their favorite duo, perhaps through a modern lens that honors the humor and heart of the originals while appealing to new audiences.
Tom and Jerry have always thrived on their simplicity—a universal story of rivalry, persistence, and clever problem-solving that transcends generations. As the new creative team begins work on the script, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on how these characters have remained a cultural cornerstone for over 80 years.
Stay tuned to Trevor Decker News for more updates on the upcoming Tom and Jerry film and all things nostalgic in entertainment.
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