Why The Great Pumpkin is so Good

1966 is almost 60 years ago now. Things were a lot different. The United States was fighting in Vietnam, Martin Luther King was still leading the Civil Rights Movement and John Lennon thought The Beatles were bigger than Jesus.

"It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" also premiered that year in October. While it was less monumental than the historical events, the Charlie Brown special remains a timeless rewatchable spectacle in art. But why? Time to dive in.

The Halloween special is like the first bite from the Snickers after hours of trick-or-treating: comfort. The soft jazz that plays throughout makes for a relaxing casual watch of joy and satisfaction. It is something to fall asleep to, but in a way where there is a small smile as one drifts off.

The Great Pumpkin provides many examples of childhood innocence which flows back feelings of nostalgia. Whether it is Snoopy’s imagination where he becomes a fighter pilot or the anticipation the children get for their Halloween party, it is relatable for everyone watching.

The short is perfect for how it enters the viewer into the fall landscape. The vibrant pink, orange, red and yellow colors induce warmth and connection to the autumn season. It also includes images of leaves on the ground and pumpkin patches which add to the seasonal atmosphere.

Everyone loves to go back to a time when they didn’t have to pay their taxes, worry about their child or their schoolwork and cry over a boy/girlfriend. The 58-year-old TV movie is a quick escape for grown people to take some time to relive these days and cherish them.

While it may not be acting like a fighter pilot or hoping for a Great Pumpkin to bring toys, The Great Pumpkin sparks that childlike imagination and anticipation that everyone can still have. The easy life the characters enjoy isn’t something exclusive to kids. The classic calls for everyone watching to channel the joy it brings.

In Kanye West’s song, "Power," he raps, “I just needed time alone, with my own thoughts. Got treasures in my mind but couldn’t open up my own vault. My childlike creativity, purity and honesty are honestly being crowded by these grown thoughts.”

How is this relevant? Kanye West’s art was rooted in his “childlike creativity” and he has made some great timeless music. Everyone can be better channeling their inner child, and "It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" is a comforting, nostalgic and heartwarming reminder.

Brooks Markle is a first-year majoring in communications. To contact him, email, bfm5562@psu.edu.