Over time, Adventure Time has developed a habit of taking lesser-known characters or completely new ones and placing them in the spotlight. This is a daring move for any show, but Adventure Time consistently manages to do it successfully. In this particular episode, which was written and solo-boarded by Tom Herpich, we are introduced to another experimental storyline for this season (the first being Fionna and Cake). This episode opens up new possibilities for the series by focusing on characters who don’t have the ability to speak. Despite the fact that the direction of the episode is quite predictable, I find it truly remarkable. It sidelines Finn and Jake and fully embraces the potential of these silent characters.
It’s challenging to pinpoint exactly what makes Thank You so captivating, but I believe much of it can be attributed to its captivating ambiance. With its quiet, solemn, and whimsical tone, the film offers a plethora of moments that may not be uproariously funny, but are incredibly charming. Observing the Snow Golem’s everyday life, from his avian alarm clock to his bowl filled with acorns and pears, is an absolute delight. While the Snow Golem may not possess a particularly strong personality, he embodies the essence of an eccentric everyman. He is introverted and cautious, yet undeniably friendly and likable. His bond with the fire pup is truly endearing, encompassing the full spectrum of emotions from initial distrust to genuine concern for the poor pup. The small moments shared between them, including the golem’s finger puppet show and the fire pup’s rather enthusiastic suckling on a cow’s udder, are simply wonderful.
Dee Bradley Baker and Pendleton Ward deliver an exceptional display of voice acting in this episode. Remarkably, Snow Golem and Fire Wolf communicate without any dialogue until the climax, yet their subtle expressive sounds drive the narrative forward with finesse. The frantic noises emitted by Snow Golem when he’s gripped by paranoia or distress are truly captivating, while the endearing cries and barks of the Fire Wolf pup melt the heart. Dee Bradley Baker’s uncanny ability to flawlessly imitate animals is truly awe-inspiring, solidifying his status as a legendary talent.
This one is filled with an abundance of exquisite artwork and vibrant colors. Ghostshrimp once again showcases his exceptional talent, while Santino Lascano and Chris Tsirgiotis contribute their beautiful artwork as well. The Snow Golem’s house is impeccably designed, revealed to be a barn previously owned by humans in the promotional art. The Fire Kingdom makes its first major appearance, and although its design is slightly different, it remains visually stunning. The proximity of the Fire Kingdom and Ice Kingdom may seem odd, but it doesn’t detract from the overall episode. The background art captures breathtaking sunsets and the contrasting textures between snow and fire, along with top-notch animation quality. It’s evident that Herpich, the other storyboard artists, and animators poured their hearts into this episode. Even the simplest details, like a three-second clip of the Snow Golem walking, are given an extended walking cycle by Adam Muto, showcasing the team’s dedication and skill.
Once again, I am truly captivated by the serene and poignant atmosphere of this piece. The Snow Golem’s journey in navigating how to handle the fire pup is filled with countless tender moments, which encapsulate a seemingly simple yet pivotal situation that is delicately handled. Although the conclusion may be anticipated, it remains heartfelt. Particularly, the final minutes resonate deeply with me – witnessing the Snow Golem’s unwavering determination to put his own life at risk for the sake of a wolf he encountered just a day prior, and the humble reunion they share in the end. It serves as a charming conclusion to the episode, one that never fails to bring a smile to my face with each viewing.
The presence of Finn, Jake, and Ice King in this episode feels somewhat forced. Their subplot in the background is acceptable, but removing them entirely wouldn’t make much of a difference. The only standout moment is when Finn sets aside his differences with Ice King at the end. However, overall, it feels like Finn and Jake are merely reiterating what we already know. The conflict and eventual resolution between fire wolves and snow golems is a well-established concept, and we don’t need any additional exposition. It’s a minor aspect that could be altered or completely removed to allow for more focus on the main characters. The only intriguing aspect is Jake wearing the Ice King’s crown without any adverse effects, which is likely due to the crown already having a host. Although this concept is explored in later episodes, this was the first instance of its introduction.
This is an absolute gem! It exudes the charm of a Pixar short, radiating with its own brand of uniqueness and breathtaking beauty. It’s no surprise that it was on the verge of an Oscar nomination. I am utterly enamored by the ambiance, the stunning artwork, the deep connection between the main characters, and the profound message it delivers. This masterpiece has opened up a world of possibilities for Adventure Time to explore the lives of other secondary characters, while also showcasing the incredible talent of solo-board writers. It stands tall among the greatest achievements and is a source of immense pride for the Adventure Time team, and rightfully so.
