An ideal day in Chicago with Genndy Tartakovsky
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Bull (Adam Devine) and his love interest Honey (Kathryn Hahn) in "Fixed." Image: Courtesy of Netflix
Lane Tech and Columbia College alum Genndy Tartakovsky gained fame directing "Dexter's Laboratory," "Powerpuff Girls" and the "Hotel Transylvania" movie series, but this week he's making waves with his R-rated cartoon "Fixed" on Netflix.
Zoom in: This hand-drawn feature film tells the story of canine buddies who unite for one last wild ride in Chicago before their pal, Bull, gets neutered.
- Voice actors include Idris Elba, Fred Armisen, Kathryn Hahn and Adam Devine.
- Tartakovsky based the story on joke-filled reunions with his Lane Tech buddies, including arts organizer Mike Orlove, Sun-Times sportswriter Steve Greenberg and Rich Lufrano — the last two co-wrote the script.
What he's saying: "I thought, 'if these guys make me laugh, maybe I could translate that dynamic into an adult-themed buddy movie,'" Tartakovsky tells Axios.
The intrigue: When studio execs asked Tartakovsky for a "big concept" around this buddy story, the dog-neutering idea just popped into his head, he said.
- "But it's really about [the buddies'] big night out and what it means along with a love story and a bromance story," he says.
Warning: He stresses that "Fixed" is not for kids. "It's a bit shocking, but once you settle in, you realize it's just a fun, silly, raunchy animated comedy with some heart."
What's happening: We asked the West Coaster to describe his ideal Chicago day from his youth and frequent visits back.
🍳 Breakfast: "When I was growing up, I had no money, but if I ever did go out for breakfast, it was the [defunct] Melrose Diner."
- "Since I started going back, it's been Tempo Cafe, where they have this amazing skillet."
🏀 Morning fun: Playing pick-up basketball at Chippewa Park.
🌭 Lunch: Wieners Circle for a cheddar Polish and cheddar fries.
🚶🏻 Afternoon fun: Pick up some coffee and go for a walk or bike ride on the lake.
🍕 Dinner: "I used to go to Ranalli's or My Pi, but now it's Giordano's for sausage-stuffed pizza ... living outside Chicago, there's nothing remotely close to it."
- "For a nice dinner with the family, we go to Gibson's Italia. Their pasta carbonara and ravioli are special treats."
🎸 Evening fun: "In the early days, it was Kingston Mines or the Checkerboard Lounge for blues, but now it's a late-night drink at someplace like Goose Island."