About Tom and Jerry

Tom and Jerry is an American animated series of comedy short films created in 1940 by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera. The show revolves around the comedic rivalry of Tom Cat and Jerry Mouse. The plots of each short usually center around Tom's (the cat) numerous attempts to capture Jerry (the mouse) and the mayhem and destruction that follows.

Making / Production

The Tom and Jerry series was produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. The first run was directed by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera from 1940 to 1958. From 1958 to 1962, Gene Deitch directed thirteen Tom and Jerry shorts. In 1963, the production of Tom and Jerry returned to Hollywood with Sib Tower 12 Productions.

Actors

• William Hanna: Co-creator of Tom and Jerry who provided most of the vocal effects for the characters including the most famous scream of Tom.
• June Foray: She provided voice for Jerry's Nephew, but majority of the series is essentially non-dialogue.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Trouble is usually caused by Tom's overly ambitious but always unsuccessful plans to catch Jerry.
• The series is characterized by comic slapstick violence.
• The series is known for some of the finest comedic timing in animation.

Awards

The series is noteworthy for having won more Academy Awards than any other animated series during its time, with 7 Oscar wins.

Quotes

• "Don't you believe it!" - Tom
• "I'm just a poor little mouse." - Jerry

Music, Soundtrack

• The original opening theme throughout the Hanna-Barbera era was composed by Scott Bradley.
• The musical score for Tom and Jerry was synchronized to the action in the shorts with juxtaposition of different musical elements to highlight the comedic timing.