Before there was Charlie Brown, there was Schulz.|Jun. 25, 2021|United States|54 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Animation;Documentary;Family;Kids
Description: Charlie Brown is a character many of us can relate to. Known as the “lovable loser who never seems to catch a break,” he has become a household name since his debut in the 1950s. Created by Charles Munroe “Sparky” Schulz, Charlie Brown’s struggles to kick a football or win the heart of the red-haired girl down the street have resonated with audiences for decades.
Apple TV+ released *Who Are You, Charlie Brown?*, a documentary exploring the life of Schulz and the inspiration behind his iconic characters. This 54-minute film combines cartoon clips, archival footage, and interviews with notable figures like Schulz’s wife Jean, journalist Al Roker, and Noah Schnapp, the voice of Charlie Brown in recent adaptations.
The documentary begins with Charlie Brown attempting to write an essay about himself, which transitions into a discussion of Schulz’s own childhood. Schulz, like Charlie Brown, was shy and often stressed, though he was academically gifted, skipping a grade—unlike Charlie Brown, whose poor grades added to his anxiety. However, Charlie Brown’s friends remind him of his unique qualities and worth.
Accompanied by the iconic jazz music of Vincent Anthony Guaraldi, the film captures nostalgic moments, such as the debut of the *Peanuts* comic strip, Snoopy’s imaginative adventures, and Peppermint Patty’s antics. Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and their friends have remained a part of our lives from childhood to adulthood, carrying timeless messages of friendship and perseverance.
While the documentary celebrates these beloved characters, it briefly touches on Schulz’s friendship with tennis player Billie Jean King, which played a role in the creation of *Peanuts*. This aspect, however, deserved more attention. Overall, *Who Are You, Charlie Brown?* is a heartfelt tribute to Schulz’s legacy and the enduring appeal of *Peanuts*.
Cast director: Michael Bonfiglio
Cast actor: Lupita Nyong’o, Tyler James Nathan, Terry McGurrin, Isabella Leo, Holly Gorski, Hattie Kragten, Isis Moore, Wyatt White, Christian Dal Dosso, Jacob Soley
Original name: Who Are You, Charlie Brown?