I am liking Warner Archive more and more. Not only are there loads of hard to find films such as the old Tarzan franchise (an personal favorite) but plenty of great sets of television series and shorts that would otherwise get passed over for a traditional retail release. At times, however, you have to wonder why a certain item gets a release through Warner Archive’s manufacture on demand and not a regular home video release. Such is the case with Bugs Bunny: Superstar.
A number of collections of the Looney Tunes shorts have been released over the years, and even a few of the longer form videos have been released on DVD. What I don’t understand is why this film didn’t get released as a bonus feature with one of the various compilations. This was a theatrical release in the mid 70s, combining a documentary style presentation with interviews along with several prominent Bugs Bunny shorts.
Bugs Bunny: Superstar is narrated by Orson Welles. Let’s have that sink in for a moment, shall we? It also heavily features Bob Clampett, who winds up taking a bit of the spotlight away from a number of other prominent figures, so temper his presence in the film.
Interestingly, this was the first theatrical Looney Tunes film, but the impact is diminished by the fact it is comprised of previously released shorts strung together with interviews. Granted, that isn’t to say this is a “lesser” offering, as it is actually really good. As a matter of fact, Looney Tunes fanatics will certainly want to pick this up as it features a couple of very hard to find shorts – “What’s Cooking’ Doc?” and “I Taw A Putty Tat”.
The other shorts included are:
The Wild Hare
A Corny Concerto
Rhapsody Rabbit
Walky Talky Hawky
My Favorite Duck
Hair-Raising Hare
The Old Grey Hare
All shorts are from the 1940s.
The film has not been restored. Actually, most of the shorts that are available elsewhere look a heck of a lot better elsewhere. While this film was previously available in a chopped up form, it is nice to have it complete – but a little bit more effort in its presentation would have been appreciated.
Still, this is a “must have” for any Looney Tunes fan. Why? Because this DVD includes an audio commentary. Think of it as a documentary about the documentary. It’s filled with insight and information that even longtime fans like myself will want to hear. Larry Jackson has a rather sparse IMDB resume, and not much connection at all with Looney Tunes, but his information is solid. The audio commentary alone is worth the price of the DVD. Also included are some publicity stills and behind the scenes photos.
Like Looney Tunes? Get Bugs Bunny: Superstar.