Writing in Subtext: The Brilliance and the Problems of ‘Steven Universe’
Steven Universe may be one of the most progressive cartoons ever, but it still stumbles when it comes to depictions of race.
Steven Universe
Steven Universe: Season 3, Episode 3 – “Same Old World”
How does an animated show deal with the reality of being a victim of war or a refugee? Of depression and PTSD? Through this kind of episode.
Steven Universe: Season 3, Episode 2 – “Gem Drill”
On its own, "Gem Drill" doesn't fail to charm; as a resolution to the series' long-running "Cluster arc", it's somewhat underwhelming.
Steven Universe: Season 3, Episode 1 – “Super Watermelon Island”
Despite lacking much narrative progression, "Super Watermelon Island" still has a lot of fun, beauty, and subtlety for the open-minded viewer.
‘Steven Universe’: Cartoon Network’s Avant-Garde Animation
Steven Universe's brightly colored world offers nuanced characters and complex plots by doing everything "wrong" by the outmoded standards of typical animated programs.
Steven Universe: Season 2, Episode 29 – “Log Date 7 15 2”
The conclusion to this week’s "StevenBomb" is a quiet episode that offers greater insight into Peridot.
Steven Universe: Season 2, Episode 28 – “Message Received”
Peridot, in her own unique way, finally makes a decision about her place in the world.
Steven Universe: Season 2, Episode 27 – “It Could’ve Been Great”
Peridot's the focus of an episode with an ominous cliffhanger that could spell large-scale changes for the character.
Steven Universe: Season 2, Episode 26 – “Steven’s Birthday”
Low on action, "Steven's Birthday" still manages to infuse a darker, more elegiac thread into the episode.
Steven Universe: Season 2, Episode 25 – “The Answer”
The first episode of the new year doesn’t provide answers so much as clarification and a deeper understanding of both the characters and the sociopolitical aspects of the Gem Homeworld.