The Flintstones Was A Jurassic-Sized Risk
by: Nina Ross
May 8, 2023
source: Alamy
“The Flintstones,” the iconic animated series that brought the Stone Age to television screens, was not only a game-changer for the animation industry but also a massive risk for its creators, Hanna-Barbera Productions. This pioneering show pushed the boundaries of animated entertainment and forever transformed the trajectory of Hanna-Barbera.
During the late 1950s, Hanna-Barbera Productions had established itself as a successful animation studio, primarily known for creating popular animated characters such as Tom and Jerry. However, the studio faced the challenge of standing out in a crowded market saturated with animated content. To break away from the pack, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, the studio’s co-founders, knew they had to take a bold risk that would capture audiences’ attention and set their work apart from the competition.
One of the most significant risks Hanna-Barbera took with “The Flintstones” was aiming for prime time television. At that time, animated shows were typically relegated to daytime programming and targeted exclusively at children. The decision to create an animated series that could entertain both children and adults during the evening hours was a groundbreaking departure from industry norms. The studio had to convince network executives that an animated show could appeal to a wider audience and secure a prime-time slot, a feat never before achieved in the world of animation.
As Hanna-Barbera Productions set its sights on prime time television, it became evident that creating a show with the necessary quality and sophistication would require a significant investment. The traditional limited animation style, characterized by simplified and repetitive movements, prevalent in many animated shows of the time, would not suffice for “The Flintstones.” Instead, the studio opted for a more ambitious approach, utilizing hand-drawn animation techniques that demanded more time, effort, and resources.
In addition to the animation itself, creating a vibrant and immersive Stone Age world required meticulous attention to detail. The production team had to design and construct unique sets, develop distinct characters, and craft witty scripts that resonated with viewers. This level of creative commitment and financial investment was a gamble for Hanna-Barbera, but they believed that it was necessary to differentiate “The Flintstones” and make it a groundbreaking television experience.
While Hanna-Barbera Productions took substantial risks in producing “The Flintstones,” their efforts paid off in remarkable ways. The show resonated with audiences on a deeply cultural level, capturing the essence of suburban America in a light-hearted and satirical manner. The clever blend of Stone Age antics and relatable social commentary struck a chord with viewers, making “The Flintstones” a hit among both children and adults.
The success of “The Flintstones” not only boosted Hanna-Barbera’s reputation but also paved the way for future projects. The risk the studio took with the series opened doors for more ambitious animated storytelling and laid the foundation for Hanna-Barbera to become one of the most influential animation studios in history.
