The Gem of Animation

Undeniably, this year’s presidential election has been an emotionally tumultuous experience for many, regardless of belief. It carved fissures within our community and the United States as a whole. Those bent on pushing their agenda often did so at the expense of another’s feelings, resulting in a climate of misunderstanding. During this sensitive time, it is crucial for us to remember that we are bound by our humanity, not divided by our ideologies.

No animation proves this better than Steven Universe. Directed by Rebecca Sugar, Steven Universe chronicles the exploits of its titular character and the Crystal Gems, a band of three humanoid aliens called Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl, who belong to the Gem race. The show is a medley of mahou shoujo, slice of life, and science fiction. Fans of all ages herald Steven Universe for its sophisticated plot and multifaceted characters. This show tells a compelling story about the human experience and testifies to the triumph of love over hatred.

For all its beautiful background art, witty dialogue, and catchy sing-alongs, what makes Steven Universe a near-perfect animation is, ironically, its emphasis on imperfection. Weaknesses are real forces acting on the show’s characters. Character development occurs almost exclusively over multiple episodes rather than in just one alone. In fact, Pearl’s unrequited love for Steven’s mother, Rose Quartz, torments her for a full three seasons. Pearl sure was salty when she learned of Greg Universe and Rose Quartz’s marriage. Having been forced to watch Steven grow up in his father’s image, she remains salty for a decade afterwards and feels especially provoked in Greg’s presence. Nonetheless, she tries her best to act politely. 

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After:

And screw it she does. Her distress culminates in “Mr. Universe,” wherein she delivers a soliloquy about her emotions. An argument ensues after Greg overhears her, but of course it all ends happily ever after. Pearl’s willingness to forgive and Greg’s empathy towards her help the two reconcile. We can only begin the healing process if we listen with sincerity—  or, in more colloquial terms, “Are we not interested in each other?” (Alexander 17) But this moment of peace only carries meaning because of the struggle that led up to it. The journey matters more than the destination. (To you literary junkies, that was an Odyssey reference). As Steven remarks, “If every pork chop was perfect, we wouldn’t have hotdogs!” (Steven Universe, “Laser Light Canon”) Indeed, if Pearl were not the endearingly flawed character Rebecca Sugar intended her to be, the audience would have lost her soulful narrative. 

In the world of Steven Universe, every person is represented. The show embraces diversity, giving marginalized individuals a chance in the spotlight. For one, Steven Universe does not shy away from non-traditional romance. In fact, Pearl is not the only lesbian character in the show. Garnet, a fusion of two gems, is the manifestation of Ruby and Sapphire’s love. Kudos to Steven Universe for its humanizing portrayal of homosexuality. Being the revolutionary show that it is, Steven Universe continues to continues to redefine our preconceived image of children’s animation. Allegory enables the show to explore sensitive and complicated issues, such as consent. While Ruby and Sapphire consensually fuse to become Garnet, Jasper, on the other hand, coerces Lapis Lazuli into fusion. It’s no coincidence that a fusion’s appearance correlates with the relationship it is built on. Jasper fuses with Lapis Lazuli out of greed, so their fusion produces Malachite, whose monstrosity mirrors their abusive relationship. Steven Universe may be a light-hearted show, but its eloquence can also effect change. Innovative ideas, coupled with a powerful execution, make Steven Universe a tribute to social justice. 

Above all, Steven Universe celebrates humans, not archetypes. Mass media resorts to the “knight in shining armor” and the “damsel in distress” to craft a story, but Steven Universe is devoid of these artificial constructions. For y'all heathens, here is Rebecca Sugar's gender theory in a nutshell:

Or if you didn't read the whole thing, it's basically "For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you" (Whitman Canto 1). Connie and Steven embody this spirit in “Sworn to the Sword.” In the beginning of the episode, Pearl teaches Connie how to wield the sword so she could protect Steven, as Pearl once protected Rose Quartz. As Connie’s training progresses, Steven worries that Pearl’s herculean tasks will jeopardize his friend. Steven intervenes in Connie’s next training session, drawing his shield to protect Connie from a holo-Pearl. Steven and Connie team up to fight Pearl, despite Pearl’s insistence that Connie should fight alone. When the two triumph, Pearl, teary-eyed and proud, congratulates them. Steven Universe champions the equality of all humans-- girls, boys, victors, and losers. The show does not invert the “knight in shining armor” and “damsel in distress” tropes to assert that women are as capable as men. Instead, it portrays a symbiotic relationship between the two sexes. Even though Steven Universe takes place in a fantasy world, it grounds itself in humanity.

Steven Universe showcases the best of what its medium has to offer, proving that animation can both entertain and enlighten. No wonder it spans four seasons and continues to grow. Steven Universe can remedy the wounds of a world divided and its ability to connect with the audience on a personal level make it a treasure in the pantheon of animation.