Feb 3, 2016

Nickelodeon Continues Endless Quest for Entertaining Animation

At this point in animated television history, if Nickelodeon hasn't already given you your own pilot, you're probably doing something wrong.

After a decade and a half of searching for the "next Sponge Bob," Nickelodeon has made its 2016 animated short program open for submissions. Applications will be accepted until April 15.

Nick is looking for ideas that are "original, humorous, and character-driven." So if you're formulating an original and not-so-funny idea for a background prop, don't even think about applying.

Creators whose plans are accepted will be provided with artistic and production support to complete their short film. Pitches specific to Nick Jr. must be from a child's perspective and focus on science, technology, and family for a preschool audience.

Nick received 950 submissions for last year's contest, from which 22 pilots were selected for production. Talent is not something that can be discovered; it must be developed. The talent Nick needs to create the next big hit is already in front of him. Failing to identify talent and continuing to fund a pointlessly broad pitch program is a waste of Viacom's resources and a distraction from the actual goal of producing successful children's content.

The 2012-2014 animated shorts program can be viewed here. A list of pitches from the 2015 round that will develop into pilots can be found here:

(Top: "My Friend Pancake," a 2015 pilot by Rikke Asbjorn)