10th Anniversary of The Peanuts Movie!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today we are looking into the 10th anniversary of “The Peanuts Movie”! I was also lucky enough to ask a couple of questions to the grandson of the creator of “Peanuts” and a screenwriter for the film; Bryan Schulz, and the director of the film; Stephen Martino!

When “The Peanuts Movie” hit theaters in 2015, it marked the first time Charles M. Schulz’s beloved comic strip characters were brought to life in feature-length CGI animation. The film follows Charlie Brown on a quest to impress the new girl in town, while Snoopy embarks on a parallel, high-flying fantasy adventure battling his nemesis, the Red Baron. Balancing nostalgia with fresh humor, the movie aimed to introduce Schulz’s creations to a new generation while staying true to their timeless charm.

The screenplay was a family affair; written by Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, and Cornelius Uliano. Craig, the son of Charles Schulz, was deeply committed to preserving his father’s legacy, while Bryan, Charles Schulz’s grandson, brought a younger generation’s perspective to the project. Bryan played a key role in shaping the film’s tone so it would resonate with modern kids without losing the gentle humor and warmth that define the “Peanuts” world. Together, the team collaborated with Blue Sky Studios to blend hand-drawn influences with modern 3D animation, ensuring the characters retained their classic look.

Upon release, “The Peanuts Movie” was warmly received by critics and audiences alike. Reviewers praised its faithfulness to the source material, its heartwarming tone, and its ability to evoke nostalgia without feeling dated. The animation style was widely lauded for maintaining Schulz’s signature visual simplicity while giving the world more depth and vibrancy. Fans also appreciated that the story centered on Charlie Brown’s perseverance and optimism, traits that have defined the character for over half a century.

Commercially, the film performed well, earning over $246 million worldwide and introducing the “Peanuts” gang to a new era of fans. For many, it reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Schulz’s creation; proof that good storytelling, heartfelt humor, and relatable characters can transcend generations. In bringing Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the crew to the big screen, the filmmakers didn’t just adapt a classic; they celebrated it.

Bonus Question:

Giancarlo: How does it feel to be a part of “Peanuts” history in such a cool way?

Bryan Schulz: I really don’t see myself as being a part of the “Peanuts” history. What my Dad, myself, and writing partner are doing is just trying to honor Sparky’s (Charles Schulz) work. He wrote a lot about humanity, questioning big fundamental pillars of self and purpose. All while wrapping it around comedy. It’s been an honor to work with his characters and helping share them with the next generations.

Stephen Martino: It feels like an honor. I don’t think about it each day, but your question made me realize this.

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is this best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Bryan Schulz: Be true to yourself. This applies to all aspects of life. It allowed me to be my true self with friends. What I write about in movies comes from what I believe in and care about. It allows you to be free in life knowing you are being genuine with each interaction.

Stephen Martino: “Embrace limitations and see them as creative opportunities.”

-From Terry Gilliam (Director, and member of Monty Python)

Thank you for reading! Have an amazing day and we will catch you again on Monday!

-Giancarlo