As a longtime fan of Strawberry Shortcake, I was tickled pink to discover that HUB TV (www.hubtv.com) converted Season three to CG animation! Recently, I caught up with Sara Finn, Executive Producer of the series, to ask a few questions regarding the “reloading” of the show.
“We really wanted a refreshing, contemporary look, and CGI allowed us to do this,” Finn says. She adds, “Plus, we could give the girls beautiful-looking hair!” The CGI reload is definitely superb, where Strawberry Shortcake and her Berry buddies all have a rainbow of gorgeous, flowing locks.
When asked why she believed the Strawberry Shortcake franchise remains popular, the executive producer had this to say:
“It’s an ‘evergreen brand.’ We have a huge ‘heritage mom’ fan base, and they love re-introducing Strawberry Shortcake and her friends to their children. We have stayed true to the original DNA of the brand – keeping the franchise wholesome, sweet and ‘safe’ and yet refreshed in a contemporary, relatable way.”
Season 3 also marks the introduction of the first male character, Huckleberry Pie. I asked about the concept behind introducing the male character in the predominately-female Berry Bitty City. Finn gave a thorough breakdown of why this character was needed:
“Huck has always played a key role in the predominately-girl ‘aka’ Strawberry Shortcake franchise. We spent the first two seasons focused on introducing our viewers to the new Strawberry Shortcake and her friends. Each has very distinct personalities, and traits. And, we wanted to make sure our viewers really got to know each one of them. The timing seems to be perfect now that our girls are well-known to bring Huck back into our storytelling.
With Strawberry Shortcake and her Berry friends teaching friendship, teamwork and fun, what age group best suits their fundamental methods? The executive producer shared her ideas regarding the franchise’s target demographics.
“Our target demographic is ages 4- to 7-year-olds. During that age range, our viewers experience their first friendships in preschool, kindergarten and first grade. And, can relate to a lot of the situations our girls find themselves in.”
With the introduction of Huckleberry Pie and his “stray puppies,” the underlying theme explores the caring of pets in shelters. Are there other issues that you plan to delicately examine or re-examine through the eyes of Strawberry Shortcake or her Berry Friends? Finn closed our interview with these final words.
This season, we have really focused on fun, wholesome and ‘safe’ storytelling with friendship and teamwork remaining as key themes.
– That’s IT Mom Penny
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