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{{infobox television |
{{Short description|American animated television series}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2024}}
| show_name = Camp Lazlo
{{Infobox television
| image = [[Image:Camp_lazlo.png|150px|The show's logo and titluar character.]]
| image = Camp lazlo.png
| caption = The title character
| genre = [[Comedy]]
| format = [[Animated series]]
| creator = [[Joe Murray (animator)|Joe Murray]]
| runtime = 30 minutes (11 minutes per episode, plus commercials)
| creative_director = [[Mark O'Hare]]
| rating = {{TV-Y7}}
| voices = {{Plainlist|
| creator = [[Joe Murray]]
* [[Carlos Alazraqui]]
| starring = [[Carlos Alazraqui]] <br> [[Jeff Bennett]] <br> [[Tom Kenny]] <br> [[Doug Lawrence]] <br> [[Jodi Benson]] <br> [[Jill Talley]] <br>[[Steve Little]]
* [[Jeff Bennett]]
| country = [[United States|USA]]
* [[Tom Kenny]]
| network = [[Cartoon Network]]
* [[Mr. Lawrence]]
| studios = [[Cartoon Network Studios]]
* [[Jodi Benson]]
| first_aired = [[July 8]], [[2005]]
* [[Jill Talley]]
| last_aired = Present
* [[Steve Little (actor)|Steve Little]]
| num_episodes = 19
|}}
}}
| theme_music_composer = {{Plainlist|
'''''Camp Lazlo''''' is an [[United States|American]] [[animated television series]] created by [[Joe Murray]], produced by [[Cartoon Network Studios]] and currently aired on [[Cartoon Network]]. The show features a [[Boy Scouts of America|Boy Scout]]-like [[summer camp]] with a cast of all animal characters, along with a "retro" type of humor and silliness which is akin to Murray's previous series, ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'' (which aired on [[Nickelodeon (TV channel)|Nickelodeon]] a decade earlier).
* [[Andy Paley]]
* Joe Murray (lyrics)
}}
| open_theme = "Lazlo Was His Name-O" {{small|(parody of the children's song "[[Bingo (folk song)|Bingo]]")}}
| composer = Andy Paley
| country = United States
| language = English
| channel = [[Cartoon Network]]
| executive_producer = {{Plainlist|
* [[Brian A. Miller]]
* Joe Murray
}}
| producer = {{Plainlist|
* Shareena Carlson (seasons 1–2)
* Janet Dimon (seasons 3–5)
}}
| company = {{Plainlist|
* [[Joe Murray (animator)|Joe Murray Productions]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Camp Lazlo {{!}} Joe Murray Studio |url=http://joemurraystudio.com/television/camp-lazlo/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925112516/http://joemurraystudio.com/television/camp-lazlo/ |archive-date=2013-09-25 |access-date=2018-11-17}}</ref>
* [[Cartoon Network Studios]]
}}
| animator =
| num_seasons = 5
| num_episodes = {{Plainlist|
* 61 (total)
* 120 (segments)
* 2 (specials)
* 14 (shorts)<!-- The number of episodes should not change, it is verifiable by the creator and executive producer; changes will be reverted -->
}}
| list_episodes = List of Camp Lazlo episodes
| runtime = 22 minutes
| first_aired = {{Start date|2005|7|8}}
| last_aired = {{End date|2008|3|27}}
}}


'''''Camp Lazlo''''' is an American [[Animated series|animated television series]] created by [[Joe Murray (animator)|Joe Murray]] for [[Cartoon Network]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Perlmutter |first=David |title=The Encyclopedia of American Animated Television Shows |date=2018 |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield |isbn=978-1538103739 |pages=106–107}}</ref> The series follows Lazlo, an [[anthropomorphic]] [[spider monkey]] who goes to a camp called "Camp Kidney", a [[Boy Scouts of America|Boy Scout]]–like [[summer camp]] in the Pimpleback Mountains. Lazlo resides in the "Jelly Bean" cabin with his fellow Bean Scouts; Raj, an Indian elephant, and Clam, a pygmy rhinoceros. Lazlo is often at odds with his pessimistic camp leader, Scoutmaster Lumpus the moose, but usually gets along well with the second-in-command, Slinkman the banana slug, and other campers. Camp Kidney sits just across the lake from Acorn Flats, which is home to the campsite of the all-female Squirrel Scouts (which function somewhat similarly to the [[Girl Scouts of the USA|Girl Scouts]]).<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/85011740/camp-lazlo-has-a-goofy-charm-kids/ |title='Camp Lazlo' has a goofy charm kids will love |work=[[South Florida Sun-Sentinel]] |page=52 |location=[[Fort Lauderdale]], Florida |date=7 Jul 2005 |first=Jeanne |last=Spreier |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |access-date=9 September 2021 |archive-date=9 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909133805/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/85011740/camp-lazlo-has-a-goofy-charm-kids/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Carlos Alazraqui, Tom Kenny and Doug Lawrence, who did much of the voice work on ''Rocko's Modern Life'', provide lead [[voice actor|voices]] in this show as well, along with veteran voice actors like Jeff Bennett, Jodi Benson, Jill Talley, and Alazraqui's [[Reno 911]] co-star, Steve Little.


''Camp Lazlo'' was produced by [[Cartoon Network Studios]]. Its style of humor is similar to the [[Nickelodeon]] series ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'', which Murray also created and worked on, albeit more well-suited for a younger audience.<ref name="thetvdb">{{Cite web |last=Walters |first=Josh |title=Camp Lazlo: Series Info |url=http://thetvdb.com/?tab=series&id=74816 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130604133933/http://thetvdb.com/?tab=series&id=74816 |archive-date=June 4, 2013 |access-date=January 11, 2012 |publisher=Thetvdb.com}}</ref> The series premiered on Cartoon Network on July 8, 2005, and ran for five seasons comprising 61 episodes and the hour-long television special, ''[[Camp Lazlo: Where's Lazlo?|Where's Lazlo?]]''. The final episode aired on March 27, 2008. During its run, the series won three [[Primetime Emmy Awards]] and three [[Pulcinella Awards]], and was nominated for another Emmy and an Annie Award. Spin-off media include DVDs, restaurant promotions, a video game, and digital download releases.
Camp Lazlo is a [[comedy]] that uses [[pun|puns]], [[non sequitur (absurdism)|non sequitur]]s, [[double-talk]], [[running gags]], non-sexualized [[cross-dressing]] (The Jelly Beans are wearing girl wigs in "Swimming Buddy"), [[visual gag|visual gags]], as well as [[satire|satirical]] and [[popular culture|pop-culture]] references. A recent episode dubbed ''The Battle of Pimpleback Mountain'' briefly featured breaking the [[fourth wall]].


==Premise==
''Camp Lazlo'' premiered on [[July 8]], [[2005]] with episodes on Fridays at 8 PM ET/PT in the [[United States|USA]].
===Plot and characters===
{{main|List of Camp Lazlo characters}}
The series is set in a universe inhabited solely by anthropomorphic animals of many species and focuses on a trio of campers attending a poorly run [[summer camp]] known as Camp Kidney. The trio consists of Lazlo, the eccentric, optimistic spider monkey; Raj, the timid Indian elephant; and Clam, the quiet [[albino]] pygmy rhinoceros, and their multiple surreal misadventures.


Other characters include the selfish, ill-tempered moose Scoutmaster Lumpus and his mild-mannered assistant Slinkman the [[banana slug]], the boys' assortment of fellow campers including the disgruntled, surly platypus Edward, the two unintelligent, dirt-loving [[dung beetle]]s Chip and Skip, and the klutzy, accident-prone, geeky Guinea pig Samson. There's also a frenemy summer camp called Acorn Flats, which is attended solely by girls, primarily focusing on Lazlo, Raj, and Clam's respective female counterparts attending that camp; Patsy the adventurous [[mongoose]] who has a major crush on Lazlo, Gretchen the short-tempered [[alligator]], Nurse Leslie the pink [[nurse shark]] who is a doctor and Nina the bookish, [[Science fiction|sci-fi]]-loving [[giraffe]], along with the object of Scoutmaster Lumpus's affections, Miss Doe (a female [[deer]]), the head of Acorn Flats.
==Characters==


Murray said that, as he did in ''Rocko's Modern Life'', he matched the personalities of characters to various animals.<ref name="cn pressroom" />
===Main Characters===
*;Lazlo: A fun loving, free-wheeling [[Brazil|Brazilian]] [[spider monkey]], Lazlo (voiced by [[Carlos Alazraqui]]) is one happy camper. However, with all the rules, routine, and structure of Camp Kidney, Lazlo and his friends have a hard time fitting in with the locals (namely Lumpus and Edward). Lazlo's cheerful attitude and enthusiastic [[imagination]] towards solving problems doesn't always match Scoutmaster Lumpus' idea of how things should be done.


Some episodes may involve the Bean Scouts' attempts at unveiling the truth behind camp legends or clowning around, infuriating their peers or placing themselves in a variety of odd situations commonly based around traditional or fictionalized, bizarre camp activities.


===Setting===
*;Raj: One of Lazlo's bunkmates at Camp Kidney, Raj (voiced by [[Jeff Bennett]]) is an [[Indian Elephant|Indian elephant]] with some hang-ups. He hates a mess, cowers from water, snakes and bugs, and is afraid of being alone. In spite of his fears, Raj sticks with his friends in their adventures because, like them, he loves fun, almost as much as his record collection. He speaks with an [[Indian English|Indian]] accent, likes [[marshmallow]]s, and sometimes has to bring Lazlo down to earth. His secret ambition is to become a professional [[disc jockey]], as shown in "The Nothing Club", and in the episode "Float Trippers" it is revealed that Raj has a retainer, and that it was his last day, but if he didn't wear it, his teeth would overgrow.
The setting of the show was designed to deliberately bring a nostalgic feeling of childhood summer camps and "evoke a comfortable place to visit". The colors instill the ''feeling'' of summer camp, rather than basing color schemes on real-life colors; Murray and Sue Mondt, the art director, chose the colors. In ''Camp Lazlo'', the sky can be yellow, and trees are not always green and brown. For the architecture and objects, books with cabins, camps and [[Indigenous peoples of the Americas|Native American]] artifacts were consulted. Ultimately, Murray wanted to create a place where nature prevails, and the hustle and bustle of real-life is left behind, with no technology to distract from the impressions of camp life. He describes the camp as having a "retro" feel. Murray likes 1950s and early 1960s designs of objects like advertising art, lamps, and old vacation brochures, and he said that the "brushy quality that developed at that time" heavily influenced the setting.<ref name="cn pressroom" />
* Camp Kidney, set in the Pimpleback Mountains next to Leaky Lake, is the camp where most of the show takes place. This is a summer camp attended by a group of [[Boy Scouts of America|boy scout]]-like campers called ''The Bean Scouts''. In keeping the theme of the name of the camp, the campers are allowed to name their cabins after various types of beans: Jelly Cabin, Pinto Cabin, Fava Cabin, and so on. The camp is known for a low standard of quality and has been threatened with closure more than once. The camp is led by Scoutmaster Lumpus, with most of the administrative details assigned to his assistant, Mr. Slinkman. A full staff complements the camp, including a nurse and a chef.
* Acorn Flats is across the lake from Camp Kidney, attended by girls of similar age, called the Squirrel Scouts. Acorn Flats has higher quality facilities than Camp Kidney, a point of contention between the two respective camps, with Acorn Flats being the more dominant in the rivalry. The leader of the Squirrel Scouts is Jane Doe, and her grumpy assistant, Ms. Rubella Mucus-(a [[warthog]]). Both Camp Kidney and Acorn Flats are part of a larger hierarchical organization, under the direct command of Commander Hoo-ha, with "The Big Bean" as the head of all scout chapters, which includes Beans and Squirrels and (possibly) Tomato Scouts.
* Prickly Pines is a town near both camps with full commercial facilities: a post office, several restaurants, a laundromat, and other [[General store|sundry stores]].


==Episodes==
*;Clam: A quirky, [[Rhinoceros|Albino Pygmy rhino]] got his knowledge (as well as the items in his Jelly Bean cabin space) from [[Breakfast cereal|cereal]] box tops. Though seemingly dumb, Clam is actually a musical and academic genius and is often misunderstood by others, including Lumpus. Always a protective friend, Clam loves thrill-seeking and chowing down on cereal...especially the kinds with cool prizes in the boxes. He usually speaks in "sentences" that almost never exceed four words. A running gag about Clam is that nobody knows what Clam is. Many have been said he is an animal for an example like turtle. Clam is also voiced by [[Carlos Alazraqui]]
{{main|List of Camp Lazlo episodes}}
{{:List of Camp Lazlo episodes}}


==Production==
*;Scoutmaster Algonquin C. Lumpus: (pronounced ''Lümpus'', voiced by [[Tom Kenny]]) is a frustrated stick-in-the-mud [[moose]] who's [[selfish]] because everything has to be exactly how he likes it to be or else he'll have a huge tantrum. He really wanted to be Head Master Troop but is "stuck" in his job running Camp Kidney (where he lives year-round) and making sure that no one — especially his least-favorite [[Bean Scouts|Bean Scout]], Lazlo and the rest of Jelly Bean Cabin — has any fun. He also has a crush on Squirrel Scout leader Ms. Jane Doe. However, nobody knows Lumpus's secret: he loves dolls and he loves playing with them. However, as revealed in ''The Battle of Pimpleback Mountain'', he has an grand-dad named General Sherman B. Lumpus, who was battled by his own men and ended up in a circus. Lumpus's grand-dad was last seen cleaning up after the elephants (EWWWWW!). Also revealed in ''Dead Bean Drop'', Lumpus was the one who made Slinkman mess up at Dead Bean Drop by making him trip. He got away with it, until Slinkman found out about it.
===Development===
After ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'' concluded production in 1996, series creator [[Joe Murray (animator)|Joe Murray]] kept a notebook of ideas for television shows and books. Murray attributes some of his most fond memories to days at summer camp; Murray said that he attended summer camp every summer for "4 or 5 years in a row" and that he "couldn't really get the [[scouting]] thing down". He also described cartoons with pastoral settings, such as the [[Bugs Bunny]] cartoons of the ''[[Looney Tunes]]'' and ''[[Merrie Melodies]]'' series and ''[[Yogi Bear]]'', as having a "calming" effect due to the tree-filled backgrounds. At the time he believed that too many futuristic themes appeared in media and literature, so he wished to create a series that would "get back to nature". Murray was also inspired by [[John Candy]]’s own summer camp-themed cartoon series ''[[Camp Candy]]''.<ref name="cn pressroom">{{Cite web |title=Q & A with Joe Murray |url=http://turnerinfo.turner.com/presskititem.aspx?P=CARTOON&CID01=98376fcf-3e6c-44a0-aae0-9e41e16079ef&CID02=a97e4cd3-7a0b-4b0c-b126-1a03a9c9ca06Q&A |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080123210909/http://turnerinfo.turner.com/presskititem.aspx?P=CARTOON&CID01=98376fcf-3e6c-44a0-aae0-9e41e16079ef&CID02=a97e4cd3-7a0b-4b0c-b126-1a03a9c9ca06Q&A |archive-date=2008-01-23 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Cartoon Network Pressroom}}</ref>


''Camp Lazlo'' originated from a camp-related [[Children's literature|children's book series]] concept by Murray that, according to him, "outgrew its medium". As Murray developed the concept, he felt that his "lunatic characters wanted to live" and decided that a simple story could not sufficiently house his characters. Murray desired to create a series about a group of children without "high tech stimulus" and "in nature".<ref name="CampLazloHome">{{Cite web |title=Camp Lazlo |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/tv/camp_lazlo.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110306063558/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/tv/camp_lazlo.shtml |archive-date=2011-03-06 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=[[Joe Murray (animator)|Joe Murray]] Studio}}</ref>
*;Slinkman: Lumpus' assistant, Slinkman (voiced by [[Tom Kenny]]) is a [[banana slug]] who literally has no backbone. He knows the Bean Scout manual cover-to-cover, is loyal, kind, obedient and generally keeps the camp running despite Scoutmaster Lumpus' frequent hissy fits and constant laziness. Slinkman has to do a lot of things, but he does love kids, particularly those of Jelly Bean Cabin, and sometimes acts like one of them. He's a master at shadow puppets, complete with an imitation of scoutmaster Lumpus, a good prankster, and is also a race car aficionado. It has been discovered in ''Slugfest'' that Scoutmaster Lumpus actually enjoys hanging out with Slinkman since he has worked for five years under Scoutmaster Lumpus, and in "Beans and Pranks", we find out that Slinkman has been pranking on Lumpus every [[June 7th]], because he forgets his birthday all the time. As revealed in ''The Battle of Pimpleback Mountain'', Slinkman hits Scoutmaster Lumpus with a full moon frying pan when he has his "episodes." Also revealed in ''Dead Bean Drop'', Slinkman used to be a daredevil named Super Slug. He succeded Dead Bean Drop he failed but ended up in a time capsule with Lumpus and they were free in [[2031]] (20 years later) in the future with Chip & Skip, because of this, ''Dead Bean Drop'' should be non-[[canon (fiction)|canon]]ical.


[[Linda Simensky]], who had previously worked with Murray on ''Rocko's Modern Life'', had since moved to Cartoon Network and called Murray to solicit a new series. After an initial hesitation, Murray sent Simensky<ref>{{Cite web |title=Joe Murray Bio |url=http://www.studiozebre.com/joe-murray-biography/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170103165537/http://www.studiozebre.com/joe-murray-biography/ |archive-date=2017-01-03 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Studio Zebre}}</ref> the idea for a show with a working title of ''3 Beans''. Simensky "thought it sounded too much like a salad", so Murray changed the name to ''Camp Lazlo''. When approval was given, Murray decided to produce the show at Cartoon Network Studios and his studio Joe Murray Productions, and brought [[Mark O'Hare]] on as co-producer.<ref name="crafting">{{Cite book |last=Murray |first=Joe |url=http://joemurraystudio.com/blog/?page_id=346 |title=Crafting a Cartoon |publisher=Garden Box Media Group |year=2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914140756/http://joemurraystudio.com/blog/?page_id=346 |archive-date=2008-09-14 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
===Other Characters===


According to Murray, the greenlight to produce ''Lazlo'' had been initially given and later revoked, leaving Murray and Mark O'Hare "pissed" and "depressed". Murray believed that an executive was not "completely sold" by the series, and worked to have the series receive definite approval.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 28, 2008 |title=June 28, 2008 |url=http://joemurraystudio.com/blog/?p=148 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080629040710/http://joemurraystudio.com/blog/?p=148 |archive-date=2008-06-29 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Joe Murray Studio |url-status=live }}</ref> Production of ''Camp Lazlo'' began in 2004 and ended in 2007;<ref name="CampLazloHome" /> November 2007 saw the beginning of the series' final production run.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 8, 2007 |title=September 8, 2007 |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/09-journal_9.08b.07.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101018132051/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/09-journal_9.08b.07.shtml |archive-date=2010-10-18 |website=Joe Murray Studio}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=October 31, 2007 |title=October 31, 2007 |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/11-journal_10.31.07.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101018132330/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/11-journal_10.31.07.shtml |archive-date=2010-10-18 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Joe Murray Studio}}</ref> The series would later have writers that would go on to create their own shows, such as [[Thurop Van Orman]], who later created ''[[The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack]]'' in 2008, and [[J. G. Quintel]], who later created ''[[Regular Show]]'' in 2010 and ''[[Close Enough]]'' in 2020.
*;Edward Platypus: A stickler for the rules, Edward (voiced by [[Doug Lawrence]]) holds a big, fat grudge against anyone who doesn't follows them. In "Racing Slicks", even though he won the race, he didn't get the biggest trophy. He's constantly coming up with schemes to spoil any fun that Lazlo and his pals might have, especially when in "The Nothing Club" where everyone except Lazlo was in an anti-Lazlo club. However, he agrees with Lazlo in "Loogie Llama" that they need to get ol' Spitty back from the Squirrel Scouts because Spitty's one of them. He is also the youngest scout, as he was the last scout to reach "big-boy" status in "Movie Night",. As revealed in one episode, his real name is Edison and his middle name is left out as T. However, nobody knows Edward's secret (until "Hello, Dolly"): he loves dolls and playing with them. He even has a doll named Veronica he got for Christmas. He sleeps in Pinto Cabin.


===Writing===
*;Chip and Skip: These two [[dung beetle]] [[twin]]s are smelly with heads full of rocks, Chip and Skip are usually the clueless ones who help Edward carry out his schemes. They're the easiest scouts at Camp Kidney to spot because they're constantly being followed by a big cloud of dirt (similar to [[Pig-Pen_(Peanuts)|Pig-Pen]] in the [[Peanuts]] comics) and [[fly|flies]]. Skip proudly wears his awards sash on his uniform to differentiate himself from Chip. Both are voiced by [[Steve Little]]. They sleep in Pinto Cabin.
[[File:Joe Murray publicity shot.jpg|thumb|left|200px|''Camp Lazlo'' creator Joe Murray]]
Murray felt that ''Camp Lazlo'' successfully appealed to younger children because his prior experiences with his own children helped him determine details that children found humorous. Murray said that he resisted the urge inside of him to micromanage the production and instead approved aspects and contributions related to the show. He said that he had "a lot of pre-production time" and therefore details became established before the show aired on television.<ref name="cn pressroom" /> His main philosophies expressed in the show include the phrase "be who you are" and that one should question authority unless the issue is "a safety issue". Murray said that he avoids sending "messages" to children and that he hoped that his television show did not contain "too many messages".<ref name="cn pressroom" />


Murray asked many staff members who participated in creating ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'' to return and perform duties for ''Camp Lazlo'', describing his main tactic to attract the crew as "[[coercion]]". Murray wanted the ''Rocko's Modern Life'' crew as it "knows my sensibilities" and gained ten years of experience. Crew members of ''Rocko's Modern Life'', such as Robert Scull or Peter Burns, have worked on this show.<ref name="cn pressroom" /> For season one, Murray hired among others comedy writer [[Martin Olson]], who had collaborated with Murray on some of the most successful stories for ''Rocko's Modern Life''.
*;Sampson: A [[Wiktionary:mysophobe|Neat freak]] of a [[Guinea pig]], Sampson is usually seen with Edward...but not always. He is a disaster just waiting to happen. For example, we learn in "The Wig of Why" when "Madame Lazlo" correctly predicts with the wig on that Samson will be hit with a [[volleyball]], so throughout this episode, he wears a helmet and is hit by volleyballs, while in "Camp Kidney Stinks", we discover he has a very sensitive nose and refuses to go into the stinkweed with the others. [[Jeff Bennett]] provides Sampson's voice.


===Animation===
*;Dave and Ping-Pong: A set of long-necked, identical twin [[loons]], except that Ping-Pong is taller. In "The Wig of Why", "Madame Lazlo" correctly predicted that Ping-Pong was allergic to his predictions, because this only happened because Clam was absent-mindedly waving the feather fan at Ping-Pong's nose, making him sneeze. They are usually seen saying or mumbling about some boring topic Both are voiced by [[Doug Lawrence]].
Murray said that he likes storybook art and the works of [[Pablo Picasso]] and [[Henri Matisse]]; the styles influenced the visual style of ''Camp Lazlo''. He also describes "great [[comic book]] artists" as important to himself and Mark O'Hare.<ref name="cn pressroom" /> The team created some backgrounds using "Acryl [[Gouache]]", a mixture of [[acrylic paint]] and gouache.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 24, 2008 |title=January 24, 2008 |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/20-journal_01.24.08.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080317005508/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/journal/20-journal_01.24.08.shtml |archive-date=2008-03-17 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Joe Murray Studio}}</ref> [[Rough Draft Studios]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Production Credits |url=http://turnerinfo.turner.com/PrintItem.aspx?P=CARTOON&CID01=a43346d6-b792-4da7-899d-3c1b86ab7a65 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080418194758/http://turnerinfo.turner.com/PrintItem.aspx?P=CARTOON&CID01=a43346d6-b792-4da7-899d-3c1b86ab7a65 |archive-date=2008-04-18 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Turner Pressroom}}</ref> a South Korean studio, produced the ''Camp Lazlo'' footage.{{Citation needed |date=May 2021}}


===Voice acting===
*;The Lemmings: These light green-colored Bean Scout quadruplets named Larry, Leonard, Louie and Liniment carried eliminated contestants from the pine-cone sitting contest in "It's No Picnic" with a stretcher, and carry canoes in "Parasitic Pal" and "Float Trippers", can also be briefly seen in "Gone Fishin' carrying a cow. Meanwhile, they all ran away from Lazlo in "The Nothing Club" when he approached them. But,But We See 5 Or More In Random Episodes. Whenever they are moving together they say "Hub, hub, hub, hub. All four their voices are done by [[Steve Little]].
Murray asked [[Tom Kenny]], who had voiced [[Heffer Wolfe|Heffer]] on ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'', to voice characters because Murray felt that Kenny "adds writing to his roles" and "brings so much". Murray looked for "comedic timing" in his voice actors, and therefore he used many stand-up comics and sketch actors.<ref name="cn pressroom" /> [[Carlos Alazraqui]], who had previously voiced [[Rocko]] and [[Spyro the Dragon]] (a role that would coincidentally be taken over by Kenny), voices Lazlo. [[Mr. Lawrence]], who voiced [[Filburt]], voices Edward and the Loons.


===Music===
*;The Squirrel Scouts: Across Leakey Lake at the Acron Flats Campground, the female counterparts to the Bean Scouts, called the Squirrel Scouts can be found. The three most commonly seen Squirrel Scouts are Gretchen, the aggressively hungry [[alligator]]; Nina Neckly, the scholarly [[giraffe]] (both voiced by [[Jill Talley]]); and Patsy Smiles, the upbeat, chipper [[mongoose]] who loves Lazlo and will jump on him at any chance she gets (voiced by [[Jodi Benson]]). Ms. Jane [[Doe]], the leader of the Squirrel Scouts ([[Jodi Benson]]), is the apple of Scoutmaster Lumpus' eye, while her assistant, Miss Mucus, a [[Warthog]], has a personality makes Lumpus look like an angel, (also voiced by [[Jill Talley]]) because she hates Bean Scouts. Other scouts are mentioned off-screen by Jane Doe, such as Almondine the [[Owl]], Voiced By Jodi Benson, and Amber The [[Rabbit]]'s Voice Is By [[Tara Strong]]. There is also Toodie the poodle and Honey the bear with no voices.
The opening theme song, "Lazlo Was His Name-O", was based on the children's folk song "[[Bingo (folk song)|Bingo]]". It was adapted by musician/songwriter and producer [[Andy Paley]], with Joe Murray writing new lyrics. Paley also composed the music score for the show; his score features original camp songs, bluegrass and cowboy swing. Murray explained that the team often used "strange instruments" such as washboards, and the [[musical saw]].<ref name="cn pressroom" /> In addition to Paley's music score, the show also utilized many tracks from the [[APM Music]] library.


==Reception==
*;Commander Hoo-Ha: Is the ''true'' leader of Camp Kidney. He gives inspections which brings the whole camp into a nervous wreck, and before hand was only mentioned in the series. That is, everyone except the Jelly Bean Scouts (Lazlo, Raj, and Clam). The penalty for failing is no clean [[underwear]] for a year. He looks like a [[American Bison|buffalo]] or [[bison]] and his name comes from the military exclamation "Hoo-ha!" (or "Hoo-ah!"). Jeff Bennett does his voice. Commander Hoo-Ha's episode appearances are ''The Weakest Link'' (in the end), ''Movie Night'' (seen only in the thought cloud of Lumpus in the beginning) and ''The Big Cheese'' (heard on the phone and seen towards the end), And At The End Of Handy Helper.
Ray Richmond of ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'' posted his review of the series on July 7, 2005. Richmond said that his child enjoyed the show but did not ask to see it again. Richmond said that the show forms "plenty lively and a nice, safe way for a child viewer to spend a half-hour". Richmond said that the show has too much "self-consciously precious" humor; the reviewer said that the trait may not factor for children and described children as "demanding and non-discriminating at the same time."{{Citation needed |date=May 2021}}


Ginia Bellafante of ''[[The New York Times]]'' said that if she became "socio-analytical about the Lazlo enterprise," Camp Kidney appears to be a stand-in for "our culture of obsessive parenting."<ref>{{cite web |last=Bellafante |first=Ginia |title=TELEVISION REVIEW; Monkey Business at a Strict Summer Camp |url=https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-990DE4D9133EF934A25751C0A9619C8B63.html |website=The New York Times |date=February 17, 2007 |access-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118194236/https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-990DE4D9133EF934A25751C0A9619C8B63.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
*;Chef Heimlich McMuesli/Wheatgrass Willie: Camp Kidney's cook. As we can tell from the episodes "Meatman" and "Beans and Weenies", McMuesli appears to be a [[hippie]] of sorts. He's a vegan, he drives a hippie van (complete with the Flower-Power theme) and likes to serve the campers healthy foods and meals. He's rather cheerful but also seems to be rather impatient at times, as demonstrated in the above episodes when his meals are made fun of by Lazlo, or when Clam sprays goop everywhere. Carlos Alazrqui provides the voice for this character.


Kathie Huddleston, a reporter for the ''[[Science Fiction Weekly]]'', created a favorable review of ''Camp Lazlo''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Huddleston |first=Kathie |title=Camp Lazlo |url=http://www.scifi.com/sfw/issue428/screen3.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090318182225/http://www.scifi.com/sfw/issue428/screen3.html |archive-date=March 18, 2009 |website=Science Fiction Weekly}}</ref>
*;Nurse Leslie: Camp Kidney's [[nurse]], a pink [[shark]]. He's usually seen with a cup of coffee in his hand, and a rather bored expression on his face. He tends to all the campers ailments, and issues excuses when necessary. He never walks from place to place, but instead propels himself using a wheeled chair that he always sits on. [[Doug Lawrence]] provides the voice for him.


''[[The Atlanta Journal-Constitution]]'' reviewed the series and gave it an "A."<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 7, 2005 |title=Off to Camp with Brats, Silly Critters |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=AT&p_theme=at&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=10B33B0C02CA91B0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609150459/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=AT&p_theme=at&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=10B33B0C02CA91B0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |archive-date=2011-06-09 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Atlanta Journal-Constitution}}</ref>
*;Lifeguards Pierre and No-Neck: Camp Kidney's lifeguards who assign swimming buddies based on how they do in a test. One small problem, though: They have no idea how to swim, and No-Neck has no neck. [[Jeff Bennett]] does their voices. The name Pierre is a French name, suggesting Pierre and No-Neck are from [[France]] or from Quebec, a [[Canadian French|French]]-speaking province of [[Canada]].


Joly Herman of ''Common Sense Media'' posted a review of the show on [[Go.com]]. Herman describes the humor used in the ''Camp Lazlo'' as making it an "unpredictable show for younger viewers." Herman gave the show two stars out of five.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Herman |first=Joly |title=TV Review: Camp Lazlo |url=http://family.go.com/entertainment/article-csm-79658-tv-review--camp-lazlo-t/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113153037/http://family.go.com/entertainment/article-csm-79658-tv-review--camp-lazlo-t/ |archive-date=2009-01-13 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Common Sense Media}}</ref>
OTHER LESS IMPORTANT CHARACTERS:
*:Wampum Sprongs crew- In the episode "the weakest link" there is a hotel with four workers. Their names are Sparkling one, moon stone, smooth pebble, and big hairy mountain man. Sparkling one is the owner of the hotel. Moon stone is the introducer of some sort welcoming guests. Smooth pebble doesn't talk much but he is good with computers because he was the one on the computer. Big hairy mountain man is a relaxer with many specialties like seaweed wrappings and hot tubs.


===Awards and nominations===
*:Tommy and Timmy- these two are loon related scouts stranded on itchy island. They are 70 years old
{| class="wikitable sortable"
and left camp for the treasure when they were 10. According to the episode Tommy took out Timmy's ear hair 40 years ago.
|-
! Year !! Award !! Category !! Nominee !! Result
|-
| rowspan="4"|2006
| [[Primetime Emmy Awards]]
| [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program|Outstanding Animated Program (for Programming Less Than One Hour)]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baisley |first=Sarah |date=July 6, 2006 |title=2005-2006 Primetime Emmy Award Nominations |url=http://www.awn.com/news/awards/2005-2006-primetime-emmy-award-nominations |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111114065944/http://www.awn.com/news/awards/2005-2006-primetime-emmy-award-nominations |archive-date=November 14, 2011 |access-date=2012-12-09 |website=[[Animation World Network]]}}</ref>
|"Hello Dolly"/"Overcooked Beans"
| {{nom}}
|-
| rowspan=3|[[Pulcinella Awards]]
| Best Animated Series for Children<ref name="pulcinella">{{Cite web |last=Ball |first=Ryan |date=April 10, 2006 |title=''Lazlo'' Emerges as Champ on the Bay |url=http://www.animationmagazine.net/events/lazlo-emerges-as-champ-on-the-bay/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204042338/http://www.animationmagazine.net/events/lazlo-emerges-as-champ-on-the-bay/ |archive-date=December 4, 2011 |access-date=2006-10-29 |website=[[Animation Magazine]]}}</ref>
| Joe Murray
| {{won}}
|-
| Best Animated Series for All Ages<ref name="pulcinella" />
| Joe Murray
| {{won}}
|-
| Best Character (Lazlo)<ref name="pulcinella" />
| Joe Murray
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="3"|2007
| [[Annie Awards]]
| Best Production Design in an Animated Television Production<ref>{{Cite web |title=2007 Annie Awards nominations |url=http://theenvelope.latimes.com/awards/env-annieawardslist-5dec5,0,2155966.htmlstory |access-date=2012-12-09 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] }}</ref>
| Sue Mondt<br />{{small|for "Hard Days Samson"}}
| {{nom}}
|-
| rowspan=2|[[Primetime Emmy Awards]]
| [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program|Outstanding Animated Program (For Programming One Hour or More)]]
| ''[[Camp Lazlo: Where's Lazlo?|Where's Lazlo?]]''
| {{won}}
|-
| [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation|Outstanding Individual in Animation]]
| Sue Mondt<br />{{small|for "Squirrel Secrets"}}
| {{won}}
|-
| 2008
| [[Primetime Emmy Awards]]
| [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Short Form Animated Program|Outstanding Short-format Animated Programs]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Camp Lazlo |url=http://www.emmys.com/shows/camp-lazlo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120606214310/http://www.emmys.com/shows/camp-lazlo |archive-date=2012-06-06 |access-date=2012-12-09 |website=Emmys.com |publisher=[[Academy of Television Arts & Sciences]]}}</ref>
| "Lazlo's First Crush"
| {{won}}
|-
|}


==Episode Guide==
==Other media==


===Season One===
===Digital releases===
''Camp Lazlo'' was released in HD remasters partially on Boomerang's streaming service in 2018, completing the HD release of the show in its entirety in June 2019. The complete series was also released on [[HBO Max]] in Latin America.


===DVD releases===
#Gone Fishin' (Sort Of) / Beans Are From Mars
Prior to ''Camp Lazlo''{{'}}s premiere on Cartoon Network, a Press Kit for the show was given away as a promotional item, containing fact sheets on the show and a DVD with four episodes (2 half-hour episodes): "Gone Fishin' (Sort of) / Beans Are from Mars" and "Parasitic Pal / It's No Picnic". This item is now only available through a second-hand market.{{Citation needed|date=January 2022}}
#Snake Eyes / Racing Slicks
#Lights Out / Swimming Buddy
#Parasitic Pal / It's No Picnic
#The Weakest Link / Lumpy Treasure
#Tree Hugger / Marshmallow Jones
#Dosey Doe / Prodigious Clamus
#The Nothing Club / Loogie Llama
#Float Trippers / The Wig of Why
#Prickly Pining Dining / Camp Kidney Stinks
#Beans and Pranks / Movie Night
#Slugfest / Beans & Weenies
#The Big Cheese / Campers All Pull Pants Down


On July 18, 2007, [[Madman Entertainment]] of Australia released a set of two DVDs encoded for [[DVD region code#Region codes and countries|Region 4]] of season one episodes. No further information is available about a Region 1 release or additional seasons.{{Citation needed|date=January 2022}}
For episode descriptions, see [[Episodes of Camp Lazlo, Season 1]]


Two episodes have also appeared on Cartoon Network-themed DVDs. "Hello Dolly" appeared on the ''Cartoon Network Fridays – Volume 1'' DVD, released on September 19, 2006. "Snow Beans", a winter-themed episode of the show, was released on the ''Cartoon Network Christmas: Volume Three'' DVD on October 3, 2006.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bynum |first=Aaron H. |date=September 16, 2006 |title=CN's Early Christmas |url=http://animationinsider.net/article.php?articleID=1150 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310171955/http://animationinsider.net/article.php?articleID=1150 |archive-date=2012-03-10 |website=[[Animation Insider]]}}</ref>
===Season Two===
#Meatman / Hallobeanies
#No Beads, No Business / Miss Fru Fru
#Parent's Day / Club Kidney-Ki
#Love Sick / Handy Helper
#Hello, Dolly / Overcooked Beans
#The Battle of Pimpleback Mountain / Dead Bean Drop
#I've Never Bean In A Sub / Great Snipe Hunt
#Burpless Bean / Slap Happy
#Snow Beans / Irreconcilable Dungferences


The special "Where's Lazlo," received a "For Your Consideration" release for its Emmy nomination containing a glowstick and a DVD containing the episode. The DVD is only available through second hand market and very rare as it was only available for Emmy members.
For episode descriptions, see [[Episodes of Camp Lazlo, Season 2]]


==Crew==
===Video game===
A video game for the [[Nintendo]] [[Game Boy Advance]] called ''Camp Lazlo: Leaky Lake Games'' was released on November 6, 2006, as a tie-in to the show. The game is published by [[Crave Entertainment]] and developed by Collision Studios. The player plays as the three main characters (Lazlo, Clam and Raj) to compete in a series of game challenges and earn merit badges in the Leaky Lake Games event. That will allow them to compete against the Squirrel Scouts in a final tournament. In the game, the player meets characters, such as Scoutmaster Lumpus, Mr. Slinkman, Edward, and others to receive hints and directions in achieving goals and completing timed mini-games.
* [[Brian A. Miller]] producer
* [[Joe Murray]] producer
* [[Mark O'Hare]] associate producer


Jack DeVries of ''[[IGN]]'' rated the game a 4.0 out of 10, criticizing the mini-games for not explaining their objectives and calling its gameplay "boring" and its audio "some of the most horrendous music ever heard on the GBA."<ref>{{Cite web |last=DeVries |first=Jack |date=November 22, 2006 |title=Camp Lazlo: Leaky Lake Games Review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/22/camp-lazlo-leaky-lake-games-review |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220805033301/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/22/camp-lazlo-leaky-lake-games-review |archive-date=2022-08-05 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref>
==External links==
*[http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/camplazlo/index.html Official site]
*{{Tvdotcom title|title=Camp Lazlo|id=28711}}
*{{imdb title|id=0419315|title=Camp Lazlo}}


===Promotion===
{{Cartoon Cartoons}}
''Camp Lazlo'' characters appeared in a 2007 commercial for the international [[fast food]] restaurant chain [[McDonald's]], which advertised various [[Cartoon Network]] characters being included as [[action figure]] toys in [[Happy Meal]]s, including those from ''Camp Lazlo''. Murray did not want the series to be used in Happy Meals; the only action he could take was refusing to appear in the television commercials. Murray stated on his website that he will not explain his opposition to Happy Meals due to his respect for the effort placed by Cartoon Network "marketing people". Murray stated that his opinions are his alone and do not reflect the opinions of Cartoon Network. He said that he appreciates Cartoon Network's "campaign for healthier eating habits for kids". "C" Raggio, a character designer, appeared in the commercials instead.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Answers to Frequently Asked Questions |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/bio/answers.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100514155608/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/bio/answers.shtml |archive-date=2010-05-14 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Joe Murray Studio}}</ref><ref name="HappyMeal">{{Cite web |date=July 5, 2007 |title=Studio News: July 5, 2007 |url=http://www.joemurraystudio.com/news/news_7.05.07.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100101130531/http://www.joemurraystudio.com/news/news_7.05.07.shtml |archive-date=2010-01-01 |access-date=2021-05-19 |website=Joe Murray Studio}}</ref>

On November 14, 2007, Cartoon Network Enterprises announced a deal with KellyToyUSA to create toys based on the series that would be distributed to amusement parks in North America beginning in 2008.<ref>{{Cite press release |date=November 14, 2007 |title=Cartoon Shows Land Plush Deal |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/cartoon-shows-land-plush-deal-154986/ |location=[[New York City]] |agency=[[Associated Press]] |via=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=2024-06-19}}</ref>

===In other series===
Lazlo, Clam and Raj made cameo appearances during the end credits of the ''[[Codename: Kids Next Door]]'' and ''[[The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy]]'' crossover episode "The Grim Adventures of the KND", mixed with the characters of ''[[Evil Con Carne]]''. Lazlo made a cameo in the ''[[Mad (TV series)|MAD]]'' episode "Taking Nemo / Once Upon a Toon", as one of the cartoon characters who forgotten their identity. Lumpus and Edward briefly appeared in the ''[[Villainous (web series)|Villainous]]'' episode "The Lost Cases of Elmore". Lazlo made a cameo in the ''[[OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes]]'' episode "Crossover Nexus", as one of the cartoon characters who turned into stones by Strike.

==See also==

* ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]''
* ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]''

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120209010341/http://family.go.com/entertainment/article-csm-79658-television-review--camp-lazlo-t/ Television Review: Camp Lazlo | Entertainment | Disney Family.com]
* [http://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/camp-lazlo Common Sense Media: Camp Lazlo - Television Review]

==External links==
{{sister project links|display=''Camp Lazlo''|d=Q285276|c=no|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|wikt=no|s=no|species=no}}
* {{IMDb title}}
* [http://thetvdb.com/?tab=series&id=74816 ''Camp Lazlo'': Series Info]


{{Joe Murray}}
[[Category:Camp Lazlo]]
{{Rough Draft Studios}}
[[Category:Hanna-Barbera and Cartoon Network Studios series and characters]]
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[[pl:Harcerz Lazlo]]
[[Category:Camp Lazlo| ]]
[[Category:2005 American television series debuts]]
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[[Category:Television shows set in summer camps]]

Latest revision as of 01:17, 24 December 2024

Camp Lazlo
GenreComedy
Created byJoe Murray
Creative directorMark O'Hare
Voices of
Theme music composer
Opening theme"Lazlo Was His Name-O" (parody of the children's song "Bingo")
ComposerAndy Paley
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
No. of seasons5
No. of episodes
  • 61 (total)
  • 120 (segments)
  • 2 (specials)
  • 14 (shorts)
(list of episodes)
Production
Executive producers
Producers
  • Shareena Carlson (seasons 1–2)
  • Janet Dimon (seasons 3–5)
Running time22 minutes
Production companies
Original release
NetworkCartoon Network
ReleaseJuly 8, 2005 (2005-07-08) –
March 27, 2008 (2008-03-27)

Camp Lazlo is an American animated television series created by Joe Murray for Cartoon Network.[2] The series follows Lazlo, an anthropomorphic spider monkey who goes to a camp called "Camp Kidney", a Boy Scout–like summer camp in the Pimpleback Mountains. Lazlo resides in the "Jelly Bean" cabin with his fellow Bean Scouts; Raj, an Indian elephant, and Clam, a pygmy rhinoceros. Lazlo is often at odds with his pessimistic camp leader, Scoutmaster Lumpus the moose, but usually gets along well with the second-in-command, Slinkman the banana slug, and other campers. Camp Kidney sits just across the lake from Acorn Flats, which is home to the campsite of the all-female Squirrel Scouts (which function somewhat similarly to the Girl Scouts).[3]

Camp Lazlo was produced by Cartoon Network Studios. Its style of humor is similar to the Nickelodeon series Rocko's Modern Life, which Murray also created and worked on, albeit more well-suited for a younger audience.[4] The series premiered on Cartoon Network on July 8, 2005, and ran for five seasons comprising 61 episodes and the hour-long television special, Where's Lazlo?. The final episode aired on March 27, 2008. During its run, the series won three Primetime Emmy Awards and three Pulcinella Awards, and was nominated for another Emmy and an Annie Award. Spin-off media include DVDs, restaurant promotions, a video game, and digital download releases.

Premise

[edit]

Plot and characters

[edit]

The series is set in a universe inhabited solely by anthropomorphic animals of many species and focuses on a trio of campers attending a poorly run summer camp known as Camp Kidney. The trio consists of Lazlo, the eccentric, optimistic spider monkey; Raj, the timid Indian elephant; and Clam, the quiet albino pygmy rhinoceros, and their multiple surreal misadventures.

Other characters include the selfish, ill-tempered moose Scoutmaster Lumpus and his mild-mannered assistant Slinkman the banana slug, the boys' assortment of fellow campers including the disgruntled, surly platypus Edward, the two unintelligent, dirt-loving dung beetles Chip and Skip, and the klutzy, accident-prone, geeky Guinea pig Samson. There's also a frenemy summer camp called Acorn Flats, which is attended solely by girls, primarily focusing on Lazlo, Raj, and Clam's respective female counterparts attending that camp; Patsy the adventurous mongoose who has a major crush on Lazlo, Gretchen the short-tempered alligator, Nurse Leslie the pink nurse shark who is a doctor and Nina the bookish, sci-fi-loving giraffe, along with the object of Scoutmaster Lumpus's affections, Miss Doe (a female deer), the head of Acorn Flats.

Murray said that, as he did in Rocko's Modern Life, he matched the personalities of characters to various animals.[5]

Some episodes may involve the Bean Scouts' attempts at unveiling the truth behind camp legends or clowning around, infuriating their peers or placing themselves in a variety of odd situations commonly based around traditional or fictionalized, bizarre camp activities.

Setting

[edit]

The setting of the show was designed to deliberately bring a nostalgic feeling of childhood summer camps and "evoke a comfortable place to visit". The colors instill the feeling of summer camp, rather than basing color schemes on real-life colors; Murray and Sue Mondt, the art director, chose the colors. In Camp Lazlo, the sky can be yellow, and trees are not always green and brown. For the architecture and objects, books with cabins, camps and Native American artifacts were consulted. Ultimately, Murray wanted to create a place where nature prevails, and the hustle and bustle of real-life is left behind, with no technology to distract from the impressions of camp life. He describes the camp as having a "retro" feel. Murray likes 1950s and early 1960s designs of objects like advertising art, lamps, and old vacation brochures, and he said that the "brushy quality that developed at that time" heavily influenced the setting.[5]

  • Camp Kidney, set in the Pimpleback Mountains next to Leaky Lake, is the camp where most of the show takes place. This is a summer camp attended by a group of boy scout-like campers called The Bean Scouts. In keeping the theme of the name of the camp, the campers are allowed to name their cabins after various types of beans: Jelly Cabin, Pinto Cabin, Fava Cabin, and so on. The camp is known for a low standard of quality and has been threatened with closure more than once. The camp is led by Scoutmaster Lumpus, with most of the administrative details assigned to his assistant, Mr. Slinkman. A full staff complements the camp, including a nurse and a chef.
  • Acorn Flats is across the lake from Camp Kidney, attended by girls of similar age, called the Squirrel Scouts. Acorn Flats has higher quality facilities than Camp Kidney, a point of contention between the two respective camps, with Acorn Flats being the more dominant in the rivalry. The leader of the Squirrel Scouts is Jane Doe, and her grumpy assistant, Ms. Rubella Mucus-(a warthog). Both Camp Kidney and Acorn Flats are part of a larger hierarchical organization, under the direct command of Commander Hoo-ha, with "The Big Bean" as the head of all scout chapters, which includes Beans and Squirrels and (possibly) Tomato Scouts.
  • Prickly Pines is a town near both camps with full commercial facilities: a post office, several restaurants, a laundromat, and other sundry stores.

Episodes

[edit]
SeasonSegmentsEpisodesOriginally aired
First airedLast aired
Pilot2004
12613July 8, 2005 (2005-07-08)September 16, 2005 (2005-09-16)
22513October 1, 2005 (2005-10-01)June 29, 2006 (2006-06-29)
32513July 4, 2006 (2006-07-04)February 23, 2007 (2007-02-23)
Where's Lazlo?February 18, 2007 (2007-02-18)
42211May 25, 2007 (2007-05-25)August 29, 2007 (2007-08-29)
5179September 3, 2007 (2007-09-03)March 27, 2008 (2008-03-27)
ShortsN/A14November 9, 2006 (2006-11-09)January 7, 2008 (2008-01-07)

Production

[edit]

Development

[edit]

After Rocko's Modern Life concluded production in 1996, series creator Joe Murray kept a notebook of ideas for television shows and books. Murray attributes some of his most fond memories to days at summer camp; Murray said that he attended summer camp every summer for "4 or 5 years in a row" and that he "couldn't really get the scouting thing down". He also described cartoons with pastoral settings, such as the Bugs Bunny cartoons of the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series and Yogi Bear, as having a "calming" effect due to the tree-filled backgrounds. At the time he believed that too many futuristic themes appeared in media and literature, so he wished to create a series that would "get back to nature". Murray was also inspired by John Candy’s own summer camp-themed cartoon series Camp Candy.[5]

Camp Lazlo originated from a camp-related children's book series concept by Murray that, according to him, "outgrew its medium". As Murray developed the concept, he felt that his "lunatic characters wanted to live" and decided that a simple story could not sufficiently house his characters. Murray desired to create a series about a group of children without "high tech stimulus" and "in nature".[6]

Linda Simensky, who had previously worked with Murray on Rocko's Modern Life, had since moved to Cartoon Network and called Murray to solicit a new series. After an initial hesitation, Murray sent Simensky[7] the idea for a show with a working title of 3 Beans. Simensky "thought it sounded too much like a salad", so Murray changed the name to Camp Lazlo. When approval was given, Murray decided to produce the show at Cartoon Network Studios and his studio Joe Murray Productions, and brought Mark O'Hare on as co-producer.[8]

According to Murray, the greenlight to produce Lazlo had been initially given and later revoked, leaving Murray and Mark O'Hare "pissed" and "depressed". Murray believed that an executive was not "completely sold" by the series, and worked to have the series receive definite approval.[9] Production of Camp Lazlo began in 2004 and ended in 2007;[6] November 2007 saw the beginning of the series' final production run.[10][11] The series would later have writers that would go on to create their own shows, such as Thurop Van Orman, who later created The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack in 2008, and J. G. Quintel, who later created Regular Show in 2010 and Close Enough in 2020.

Writing

[edit]
Camp Lazlo creator Joe Murray

Murray felt that Camp Lazlo successfully appealed to younger children because his prior experiences with his own children helped him determine details that children found humorous. Murray said that he resisted the urge inside of him to micromanage the production and instead approved aspects and contributions related to the show. He said that he had "a lot of pre-production time" and therefore details became established before the show aired on television.[5] His main philosophies expressed in the show include the phrase "be who you are" and that one should question authority unless the issue is "a safety issue". Murray said that he avoids sending "messages" to children and that he hoped that his television show did not contain "too many messages".[5]

Murray asked many staff members who participated in creating Rocko's Modern Life to return and perform duties for Camp Lazlo, describing his main tactic to attract the crew as "coercion". Murray wanted the Rocko's Modern Life crew as it "knows my sensibilities" and gained ten years of experience. Crew members of Rocko's Modern Life, such as Robert Scull or Peter Burns, have worked on this show.[5] For season one, Murray hired among others comedy writer Martin Olson, who had collaborated with Murray on some of the most successful stories for Rocko's Modern Life.

Animation

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Murray said that he likes storybook art and the works of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse; the styles influenced the visual style of Camp Lazlo. He also describes "great comic book artists" as important to himself and Mark O'Hare.[5] The team created some backgrounds using "Acryl Gouache", a mixture of acrylic paint and gouache.[12] Rough Draft Studios,[13] a South Korean studio, produced the Camp Lazlo footage.[citation needed]

Voice acting

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Murray asked Tom Kenny, who had voiced Heffer on Rocko's Modern Life, to voice characters because Murray felt that Kenny "adds writing to his roles" and "brings so much". Murray looked for "comedic timing" in his voice actors, and therefore he used many stand-up comics and sketch actors.[5] Carlos Alazraqui, who had previously voiced Rocko and Spyro the Dragon (a role that would coincidentally be taken over by Kenny), voices Lazlo. Mr. Lawrence, who voiced Filburt, voices Edward and the Loons.

Music

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The opening theme song, "Lazlo Was His Name-O", was based on the children's folk song "Bingo". It was adapted by musician/songwriter and producer Andy Paley, with Joe Murray writing new lyrics. Paley also composed the music score for the show; his score features original camp songs, bluegrass and cowboy swing. Murray explained that the team often used "strange instruments" such as washboards, and the musical saw.[5] In addition to Paley's music score, the show also utilized many tracks from the APM Music library.

Reception

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Ray Richmond of The Hollywood Reporter posted his review of the series on July 7, 2005. Richmond said that his child enjoyed the show but did not ask to see it again. Richmond said that the show forms "plenty lively and a nice, safe way for a child viewer to spend a half-hour". Richmond said that the show has too much "self-consciously precious" humor; the reviewer said that the trait may not factor for children and described children as "demanding and non-discriminating at the same time."[citation needed]

Ginia Bellafante of The New York Times said that if she became "socio-analytical about the Lazlo enterprise," Camp Kidney appears to be a stand-in for "our culture of obsessive parenting."[14]

Kathie Huddleston, a reporter for the Science Fiction Weekly, created a favorable review of Camp Lazlo.[15]

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reviewed the series and gave it an "A."[16]

Joly Herman of Common Sense Media posted a review of the show on Go.com. Herman describes the humor used in the Camp Lazlo as making it an "unpredictable show for younger viewers." Herman gave the show two stars out of five.[17]

Awards and nominations

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Year Award Category Nominee Result
2006 Primetime Emmy Awards Outstanding Animated Program (for Programming Less Than One Hour)[18] "Hello Dolly"/"Overcooked Beans" Nominated
Pulcinella Awards Best Animated Series for Children[19] Joe Murray Won
Best Animated Series for All Ages[19] Joe Murray Won
Best Character (Lazlo)[19] Joe Murray Won
2007 Annie Awards Best Production Design in an Animated Television Production[20] Sue Mondt
for "Hard Days Samson"
Nominated
Primetime Emmy Awards Outstanding Animated Program (For Programming One Hour or More) Where's Lazlo? Won
Outstanding Individual in Animation Sue Mondt
for "Squirrel Secrets"
Won
2008 Primetime Emmy Awards Outstanding Short-format Animated Programs[21] "Lazlo's First Crush" Won

Other media

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Digital releases

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Camp Lazlo was released in HD remasters partially on Boomerang's streaming service in 2018, completing the HD release of the show in its entirety in June 2019. The complete series was also released on HBO Max in Latin America.

DVD releases

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Prior to Camp Lazlo's premiere on Cartoon Network, a Press Kit for the show was given away as a promotional item, containing fact sheets on the show and a DVD with four episodes (2 half-hour episodes): "Gone Fishin' (Sort of) / Beans Are from Mars" and "Parasitic Pal / It's No Picnic". This item is now only available through a second-hand market.[citation needed]

On July 18, 2007, Madman Entertainment of Australia released a set of two DVDs encoded for Region 4 of season one episodes. No further information is available about a Region 1 release or additional seasons.[citation needed]

Two episodes have also appeared on Cartoon Network-themed DVDs. "Hello Dolly" appeared on the Cartoon Network Fridays – Volume 1 DVD, released on September 19, 2006. "Snow Beans", a winter-themed episode of the show, was released on the Cartoon Network Christmas: Volume Three DVD on October 3, 2006.[22]

The special "Where's Lazlo," received a "For Your Consideration" release for its Emmy nomination containing a glowstick and a DVD containing the episode. The DVD is only available through second hand market and very rare as it was only available for Emmy members.

Video game

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A video game for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance called Camp Lazlo: Leaky Lake Games was released on November 6, 2006, as a tie-in to the show. The game is published by Crave Entertainment and developed by Collision Studios. The player plays as the three main characters (Lazlo, Clam and Raj) to compete in a series of game challenges and earn merit badges in the Leaky Lake Games event. That will allow them to compete against the Squirrel Scouts in a final tournament. In the game, the player meets characters, such as Scoutmaster Lumpus, Mr. Slinkman, Edward, and others to receive hints and directions in achieving goals and completing timed mini-games.

Jack DeVries of IGN rated the game a 4.0 out of 10, criticizing the mini-games for not explaining their objectives and calling its gameplay "boring" and its audio "some of the most horrendous music ever heard on the GBA."[23]

Promotion

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Camp Lazlo characters appeared in a 2007 commercial for the international fast food restaurant chain McDonald's, which advertised various Cartoon Network characters being included as action figure toys in Happy Meals, including those from Camp Lazlo. Murray did not want the series to be used in Happy Meals; the only action he could take was refusing to appear in the television commercials. Murray stated on his website that he will not explain his opposition to Happy Meals due to his respect for the effort placed by Cartoon Network "marketing people". Murray stated that his opinions are his alone and do not reflect the opinions of Cartoon Network. He said that he appreciates Cartoon Network's "campaign for healthier eating habits for kids". "C" Raggio, a character designer, appeared in the commercials instead.[24][25]

On November 14, 2007, Cartoon Network Enterprises announced a deal with KellyToyUSA to create toys based on the series that would be distributed to amusement parks in North America beginning in 2008.[26]

In other series

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Lazlo, Clam and Raj made cameo appearances during the end credits of the Codename: Kids Next Door and The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy crossover episode "The Grim Adventures of the KND", mixed with the characters of Evil Con Carne. Lazlo made a cameo in the MAD episode "Taking Nemo / Once Upon a Toon", as one of the cartoon characters who forgotten their identity. Lumpus and Edward briefly appeared in the Villainous episode "The Lost Cases of Elmore". Lazlo made a cameo in the OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes episode "Crossover Nexus", as one of the cartoon characters who turned into stones by Strike.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Camp Lazlo | Joe Murray Studio". Archived from the original on September 25, 2013. Retrieved November 17, 2018.
  2. ^ Perlmutter, David (2018). The Encyclopedia of American Animated Television Shows. Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 106–107. ISBN 978-1538103739.
  3. ^ Spreier, Jeanne (July 7, 2005). "'Camp Lazlo' has a goofy charm kids will love". South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Fort Lauderdale, Florida. p. 52. Archived from the original on September 9, 2021. Retrieved September 9, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  4. ^ Walters, Josh. "Camp Lazlo: Series Info". Thetvdb.com. Archived from the original on June 4, 2013. Retrieved January 11, 2012.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Q & A with Joe Murray". Cartoon Network Pressroom. Archived from the original on January 23, 2008. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  6. ^ a b "Camp Lazlo". Joe Murray Studio. Archived from the original on March 6, 2011. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  7. ^ "Joe Murray Bio". Studio Zebre. Archived from the original on January 3, 2017. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  8. ^ Murray, Joe (2008). Crafting a Cartoon. Garden Box Media Group. Archived from the original on September 14, 2008.
  9. ^ "June 28, 2008". Joe Murray Studio. June 28, 2008. Archived from the original on June 29, 2008. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  10. ^ "September 8, 2007". Joe Murray Studio. September 8, 2007. Archived from the original on October 18, 2010.
  11. ^ "October 31, 2007". Joe Murray Studio. October 31, 2007. Archived from the original on October 18, 2010. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  12. ^ "January 24, 2008". Joe Murray Studio. January 24, 2008. Archived from the original on March 17, 2008. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  13. ^ "Production Credits". Turner Pressroom. Archived from the original on April 18, 2008. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  14. ^ Bellafante, Ginia (February 17, 2007). "TELEVISION REVIEW; Monkey Business at a Strict Summer Camp". The New York Times. Archived from the original on November 18, 2021. Retrieved November 18, 2021.
  15. ^ Huddleston, Kathie. "Camp Lazlo". Science Fiction Weekly. Archived from the original on March 18, 2009.
  16. ^ "Off to Camp with Brats, Silly Critters". Atlanta Journal-Constitution. July 7, 2005. Archived from the original on June 9, 2011. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  17. ^ Herman, Joly. "TV Review: Camp Lazlo". Common Sense Media. Archived from the original on January 13, 2009. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  18. ^ Baisley, Sarah (July 6, 2006). "2005-2006 Primetime Emmy Award Nominations". Animation World Network. Archived from the original on November 14, 2011. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  19. ^ a b c Ball, Ryan (April 10, 2006). "Lazlo Emerges as Champ on the Bay". Animation Magazine. Archived from the original on December 4, 2011. Retrieved October 29, 2006.
  20. ^ "2007 Annie Awards nominations". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  21. ^ "Camp Lazlo". Emmys.com. Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Archived from the original on June 6, 2012. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  22. ^ Bynum, Aaron H. (September 16, 2006). "CN's Early Christmas". Animation Insider. Archived from the original on March 10, 2012.
  23. ^ DeVries, Jack (November 22, 2006). "Camp Lazlo: Leaky Lake Games Review". IGN. Archived from the original on August 5, 2022.
  24. ^ "Answers to Frequently Asked Questions". Joe Murray Studio. Archived from the original on May 14, 2010. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  25. ^ "Studio News: July 5, 2007". Joe Murray Studio. July 5, 2007. Archived from the original on January 1, 2010. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  26. ^ "Cartoon Shows Land Plush Deal" (Press release). New York City. Associated Press. November 14, 2007. Retrieved June 19, 2024 – via The Hollywood Reporter.

Further reading

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