Spice Landlord
Spice Landlord is an image series reimagining Tom & Jerry within the Sichuan cultural context. Inspired by my partner, who is originally from Sichuan—a southern province in China known for its love of spicy food—I encountered Tom & Jerry in the Sichuan dialect for the first time.
Tom & Jerry in Sichuan Accent
Credit: Online
Like many viewers, I grew up watching Tom & Jerry, usually with no voices and only minimal English text.
But in the Sichuan version, Tom and Jerry speak in the playful, distinctive Sichuan accent. Even more creatively, local adaptations added songs and poems, layering humor and cultural flavor onto this world-known classic cartoon.
The playful energy of Tom & Jerry resonates naturally with Sichuan culture, making this blend both amusing and fitting. In Sichuan, gathering around spicy food often comes with competitive games and performances. They love playing poker, mahjong, and watching the face-changing art of Sichuan opera.
Culture is borderless. Just like chili peppers bring heat and excitement to Sichuan cuisine, the Sichuan Tom & Jerry fills the familiar cartoon with humor and cultural spice.
The Mahjong Piano
“Mahjong is one of Sichuan’s favorite games — let’s play the Mahjong piano.”
The Spicy Mask
“I set the flames, and my opera face transforms.”
The Panda Love
“Dating feels like Panda Express with a Sichuan twist.”
The Gambler
“Jerry risks it all at the table, while I balance the art of Sichuan long-spout tea.”
The Hotpot Feast
“Jerry, why are you in the hotpot? And why is there chili on you?”
Credits
Spice Landlord
Creator: Naomi Zheng
Advisor: Yvette Granata
Software: Photoshop