Bump in the Night

Bump in the Night is an animated television series produced by Danger Productions and Greengrass Productions for ABC's Saturday morning children’s lineup. The show, which aired from 1994 to 1995, featured the talented voice work of renowned actor Jim Cummings, who has perviously voiced memorable characters in several other iconic animated films and series.

Bump in the Night is steeped in imaginative storytelling, with the primary narrative dictating a quirky and surreal theme surrounding the peculiar activities that occur nightly under a nine-year old boy's bed. The series juxtaposes the familiar surroundings of a suburban home with colourful, fantastical elements, giving shape to an enchanting world that resides just below the surface of everyday life.

The main character of the series is a green, small, and quite friendly monster named Mr. Bumpy, voiced by Jim Cummings. Mr. Bumpy is a playful creature full of energy and mischief, and lives under a boy’s bed, bravely embarks on exciting and whimsical adventures every night. He is identifiably charming, characterized by his wild, bulging eyes and a body formed from a sock, illustrating a classic example of a creature spun from a child's vivid imagination.

Mr. Bumpy isn’t the only resident of this peculiar world. Joining him on his night-time escapades are his close friends Squishington, a cute blue monster living in the bathroom's toilet tank, and Molly Coddle, a comfort doll belonging to the boy's sister. Squishington, played by Rob Paulsen, is the foil to Mr. Bumpy's antics, often anxious and wary but always loyal. Molly Coddle, voiced by Gail Matthius, plays the nurturing role and is often the voice of reason amongst the group. Together, this unlikely trio embarks on adventures, navigates challenges and learns valuable lessons about friendship, fear, and the imagination.

Bump in the Night showcases a rich articulation of stop-motion animation, bringing a distinct, tactile feel to the series that helps it stand apart from its contemporaries. The production value is commendable, as the show exhibits elaborate and detailed settings that genuinely evoke a monstrous yet exciting world within a normal, suburban house. Every episode is filled with wild cartoony scenarios that range from humorous situations to thrilling incidents, often incorporating song and dance numbers into the narrative to keep the entertainment quotient high.

show to watch is the classic setup that allows viewers - especially children - to understand tension, fear and excitement, in a safe and beneficial manner. The presence of monsters, represented as friendly, identifiable characters, assists in deconstructing the common fear of creatures lurking in the dark. It's a gentle way of saying that monsters aren't necessarily scary; they can be fun, adventurous and even offer companionship.

What truly makes Bump in the Night shine is the talent of Jim Cummings, who masterfully encapsulates the spirit and energy of the adventurous Mr. Bumpy. Cummings, well known for his distinguished voice-acting career, infuses a vibrant personality into Mr. Bumpy, making him a memorable character in the realm of 90's animated shows.

The series' creator, Ken Pontac, had previous success in the children's animated space, and with Bump in the Night, he continues to display his knack for colorful, engaging storytelling, resonating with both children and adults.

In a time when most animated shows were happy to stick to the basics, Bump in the Night dared to be different, employing an array of characters and narratives seldom seen on Saturday mornings. This show successfully managed to blend routine fears and concerns of childhood with humor, charm, and a touch of the fantastical, making it an unforgettable part of 90s television history.

In conclusion, Bump in the Night is a unique gem featuring imaginative characters and compelling storytelling. The voice acting, particularly that of Jim Cummings, coupled with the nostalgic charm of the stop-motion animation style, results in an authentic and entertaining series that leaves a lasting impact. Whether you’re a child embarking on a creative journey or an adult craving a trip down memory lane, Bump in the Night offers an adventurous exploration of the wonders hidden within the nooks and crannies of our everyday world.