Inside the World of Animation with Kevin Mellon of 'Archer' and 'Hit Monkey'

Geek Freaks Interviews

Host: Frank Lourence

Guest: Kevin Mellon

Episode Summary: In this episode of Geek Freaks, host Frank Lourence interviews the talented Kevin Mellon, an experienced storyboard artist and director known for his work on popular shows like "Archer" and "Hit Monkey." Kevin shares insights from his extensive career in animation and live-action TV, discussing the intricacies of storyboarding, the impact of tax breaks on production locations, and the evolving landscape of the animation industry. He also provides a glimpse into his early career, education, and the unique challenges and freedoms of freelancing.

Timestamps and Topics:

• [00:00:07] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:14] Kevin's Career Overview: From "Archer" to "Hit Monkey"
• [00:01:20] The Impact of Industry Strikes on Artists
• [00:03:09] The Freelance Life: Challenges and Freedoms
• [00:07:01] The Rise of Atlanta as a Production Hub
• [00:10:10] Tax Breaks and Their Influence on Production
• [00:12:10] Kevin's Education at The Kubert School
• [00:18:39] Advice for Aspiring Artists: Is Art School Necessary?
• [00:24:00] Storyboarding: The Process and Importance
• [00:31:05] The Role of Storyboard Artists in Production
• [00:37:21] Kevin’s Early Career and Breakthrough with "Archer"
• [00:44:07] Memorable Moments and Lessons from "Archer"

Key Takeaways:

• Kevin Mellon has worked extensively on well-known animated series like "Archer" and "Hit Monkey."
• Industry strikes have significantly affected many artists, including Kevin, leading him to explore freelancing.
• Freelancing offers both challenges and freedoms, such as managing one's own time and projects.
• Atlanta has become a major production hub due to favorable tax breaks and versatile filming locations.
• Kevin emphasizes the importance of storyboarding in both animation and live-action productions.
• Art school can be beneficial for those needing structure and guidance, but it's not essential for everyone.
• Kevin’s education at The Kubert School was pivotal in his development as an artist.

Quotes:

• "The joke is king, bro. If it's not funny, if it doesn't make me laugh, I cut it." - Kevin Mellon
• "I always tell people, no matter what medium I'm working in, I'm always trying to tell stories." - Kevin Mellon
• "A script is not a television show; it is a blueprint. It’s a guidebook." - Kevin Mellon

Guest Bio: Kevin Mellon is a seasoned storyboard artist and director with a diverse portfolio spanning over a decade in the animation industry. He is best known for his work on "Archer," where he contributed as a storyboard artist, supervisor, and director for ten seasons. Kevin has also worked on "Hit Monkey," "The Vampire Diaries," and several CW shows. An alumnus of The Kubert School, Kevin's passion for storytelling through comics and animation has driven his successful career in the industry.

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