Summary of “Win or Lose | Q&A with Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates”
– Win or Lose, Pixar’s first original TV series, has finally been released after making a premiere at Annecy 2023 and being delayed multiple times.
– The show utilises the TV format in a unique way, outlining a week’s events leading up to a school softball game – each episode gives us a different character’s perspective.
– Skwigly Animation Magazine interviewed the creators, Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates, about the innovative concept of the show.
Hot Take
So, looks like Pixar has left the “Toy Box” behind to play in the “TV sandbox” now. Meet Win or Lose – a series that seems as if Groundhog Day decided to crash the set of a middle school softball game. However, I’ve got to hand it to them. This isn’t your usual play-by-play animation gig; it’s more like a change-up or curveball, giving us a different perspective each time an episode runs. And let’s talk delays. I mean, it’s high time we coined the term “Pixar Flex” – they push the release date as much as they want, and we just wait, because deep down, we know it’s going to be worth it. Just like one waits for the perfect pitch. So there you have it — swing, hit, and all-round home run! Congrats to Carrie and Michael, who’ve filled this ballpark with creativity! Now, let’s play ball, or rather, press play!
© Disney Pixar
The long awaited release of Pixar’s original series, Win or Lose, is finally here! This innovative show is Pixar’s first attempt at embracing the TV format and it does not disappoint. Each episode of the week-long series follows the build-up to a middle school softball game, all through the unique perspective of a different character. Expect a symphony of unprecedented animation styles, editing techniques, and a blend of artistry that is new territory for Pixar.
Win or Lose is the creative genius of the brilliant minds, Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates. The partnership, which began on Toy Story 4, takes us behind-the-scenes of creating a narrative for TV and dealing with mature themes through the experiences of their charmingly crafted characters. Skwigly had a chitchat with this dynamic duo to gain some insights into their innovative storytelling approach.
What drove the decision to structure the show as it is?
MY: Our want was to explore the possibilities that a TV series could offer beyond the film format. Things like ensemble cast and plotting played into this decision. The idea of creating a focal point where all characters converge, and then following each one home was fitting. Carrie’s background in softball added richness and depth to our overall world-building.
How did you approach the development of the characters and their associated issues?
CH: It was a bit of both. Each character is inseparable from their associated issue. Softball serves as a backdrop to explore deeply human, personal emotions and experiences despite seeming like a simple sport. The characters were influenced by both Mike’s and my personal experiences and observations, and they evolved into unique beings.
Is there a specific storyline that resonates with you?
MY: Personally, the episodes focusing on the mother-daughter relationship were the most enjoyable during the writing phase. Immersing ourselves in the characters and reliving youth experiences was truly an enriching process. Ensuring a unique identity for each character involved a creative approach, themed around human follies, which kept us authentic throughout the journey.
© Disney Pixar
The show deals with serious adult topics, was it a risk?
MY: Most might perceive it as a risk, but it just felt natural to us to depict the reality that adults too have lives. Children can understand and empathize with this – they realize that even their teacher, for example, is a real person. Our vision was a show depicting the world from various perspectives – kids, parents, teachers, and others while conveying that everyone has something going on in their lives.
The show beautifully balances humor with heart-tugging moments. How did you achieve this delicate balance?
MY: This aspect is a favourite of mine in storytelling. It is rewarding when viewers laugh throughout and then suddenly realize a deeper message at the end. We aimed to add depth to each character from the onset and strived to blend comedy with real-life absurdities and sincerities in a manner that felt natural.
© Disney Pixar
There was a bit of a stir when the trans storyline was dropped, how did this impact the show?
CH: Despite this change, our goal with Win or Lose remains the same – promoting empathy and compassion. We’ve put our hearts and souls into each character and we hope that the audience can feel that connection.
How has the show evolved since its premiere at Annecy 2023 and what have you learned from this experience?
MY: Since Annecy, this journey has been a unique and collaborative process. We depended heavily on our crew, who brought richness and detail to the entire production. I don’t believe I’ve ever been a part of a project as collaborative as this.
CH: By the time we hit Annecy, we were near the finish line and just entering the sound mixing phase. The positive response and laughter from the audience there was immensely rewarding.
Original article: https://www.skwigly.co.uk/win-or-lose-qa/