I am not a fan of the limited animation style of UPA cartoons. Although the visuals are frequently designed in an imaginative fashion -- as is this one -- with few exceptions these were not choices made by considering what would serve the subject, but by first considering what they could do with the budget. The result, as with this one, frequently qualifies as radio with pictures.
Happily, it's very good radio with pictures. Director Cannon starts with a fine script in which Christopher's parents indulge him in his imaginary pet, riding about on the elephant he has conjured up and helping him wash the beast. However, the visuals, while certainly interesting and appropriate, are ugly. If this were not one of UPA's house styles, I might think it more interesting. As it is, it comes across as cheap.
Happily, it's very good radio with pictures. Director Cannon starts with a fine script in which Christopher's parents indulge him in his imaginary pet, riding about on the elephant he has conjured up and helping him wash the beast. However, the visuals, while certainly interesting and appropriate, are ugly. If this were not one of UPA's house styles, I might think it more interesting. As it is, it comes across as cheap.
