The Bosko cartoons may not be animation masterpieces, but they are fascinating as examples of Looney Tunes in their early days before the creation of more compelling characters and funnier and more creative cartoons. There are some good cartoons, as well as some average or less ones.
'Bosko the Sheep-Herder is a rather strange and forgettable cartoon that is neither among the best or worst of the Bosko cartoons. It is nowhere near as good as 'Bosko in Person' and 'Bosko the Speed King', which were huge improvements on three forgettable and dull cartoons in a row, a standard that 'Bosko the Sheep-Herder' falls sadly is closer to.
One very rarely sees a Bosko cartoon for its story and 'Bosko the Sheep-Herder' is no exception. Narratively it is thinner than thin ice and the pacing is dull, basically an excuse to string along its gags. It's also a shame that few of the gags work, the musical instruments segment is the cleverest and most amusing 'Bosko the Sheep-Herder' gets, while the others are unmemorable and rather tired.
The repeated gag gets tiresome very quickly and the ending is one of the most predictable and derivative endings of the Bosko cartoons put together.
Have little better news regarding Bosko, a limited character with very little to do, basically an underused supporting character despite being the titular character. Bruno is the most interesting character here, the rest have little to distinguish them.
For all those deficits there are merits. As always for a Bosko cartoon the animation is good. Not exactly refined but fluid and crisp enough with some nice detail, it is especially good in the meticulous backgrounds and some remarkably flexible yet natural movements for Bosko. The music doesn't disappoint either, its infectious energy, rousing merriment, lush orchestration and how well it fits with the animation is just a joy.
Sound quality has clarity and the synchronisation isn't sloppy and has imagination. The way Bosko is animated is well done and remarkably natural In conclusion, average and forgettable. 5/10 Bethany Cox
