Show Biz Bugs

In spite of the late-1950s atmosphere of shrinking budgets and apathy toward theatrical shorts, Friz Freleng pulled off a comedy masterwork here. Yes, some of the gags have been used before, but like other old masters who rework favorite themes during their autumn years, Freleng and Co. distill and focus on the essentials to make this film a highlight of the entire Looney Tunes series. Set in the theatrical milieu Freleng used repeatedly during his Warners tenure, Show Biz Friz responds with a Bugs-Daffy outing that for sheer enjoyment can take its place alongside the Chuck Jones "trilogy" of B&D epics. Note also the animation in the wabbit and duck's "Tea for Two"; such elegance would soon be sacrificed at the altar of Hanna-Barbera and other Saturday morning TV fodder factories.