Super Goof

Have a lot of fondness for 'House of Mouse'. Love Disney and the concept was such an interesting and for Disney shows at the time a unique one. There are times where it could have done more with the concept, with showing more of some of the guests and not focusing all the featured cartoons on Mickey and the gang. It is however so much fun and how it makes an effort to retain the spirit of the classic old cartoons is to be lauded.

There are from personal opinion better Goofy-centric episodes. Have a preference for the ones that place Goofy in very human and relatable situations, like with Max, and where one relates to Goofy better regardless of any faults he has. "Super Goof" is still a good episode, and like with every episode of 'House of Mouse' really like that it and the rest of the show tries to and succeeds in making the personalities of Mickey and the rest of the gang true to those of their "golden age" ones when they first came out (1930s-1950s), especially Donald. Except that Mickey is far more interesting in personality in 'House of Mouse', feels like a lead character, is used well and isn't over-shadowed by the rest of the characters. Minnie is also more resourceful.

Did like the concept of the story a lot, a little silly in places, but the parodying of 'Superman' (or at least that's how it seemed to me) was fun and it was interesting to have the least likely main character to fill the role. It also sees a different side to Goofy, other than the clumsy goofball or the father figure.

Of the two cartoons featured, 'Locksmiths' fares best. It's very funny, sometimes hilarious, lively and clever and the personalities and chemistry between Mickey, Donald and Goofy carry the cartoon brilliantly. 'How to Take Care of Your Yard' is entertaining too and it emulates the spirit of the old "How To" Goofy cartoons very adeptly, with Goofy's ineptitude at certain things, the fun situations and the entertaining and educational narration (beautifully voiced by Corey Burton). It is not the most interesting of subjects for this particular series of cartoons, and there are better and funnier efforts that don't feel as predictable or typical.

It is always nostalgic watching 'House of Mouse' and seeing characters from various Disney shows, cartoons and films. There are more memorable little character moments though, not as many standout moments as other episodes.

While not surprising in outcome, the story is lively and engaging, kept afloat by the character interaction, characters and the atmosphere. The writing is clever and very funny, even with the deliberately corny moment and pun which made me grin rather than groan.

Furthermore, the animation is very colourful, smooth in movement and with some meticulous detail. The cheap recycling footage for the audience reactions at the end of the featured cartoons does jar and annoy though. The music is suitably groovy and cleverly used, while the theme song is one of the catchiest of any Disney show in the past twenty years.

Voice acting is very good as always, Bill Farmer and Corey Burton being the standouts.

In summary, good episode, not one of the show's best though. 7/10 Bethany Cox