retrobucky Reviews

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (2006–2016)

Good fun, if unoriginal

[8/10 · 12 May 2006]

My young children love Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, what can I say? But as I was watching with them, I swore I was watching an episode of Dora The Explorer played out with Disney characters. The similarities are many: interactive questions for the young viewers, complete with pauses to simulate the child's answer, followed by an exclamatory "Right!"; a "toolbox" used throughout the show by Mickey (with the viewers' "assistance") to solve problems (just like Dora's "Backpack"); and a review of the successful journey followed by a celebratory dance routine (ala Dora's/Boots' "We Did It!" song). As a leader in animation and film for so many decades, I was surprised to see that that Disney has relegated itself to cloning another successful franchise. But the kids love it...what can I say?

Also, everyone loves the Hot Dog song! It is written and performed by They Might Be Giants.

Racquel in the Wild (1992)

Canyon passes the torch to Darrian...

[7/10 · 12 March 2006]

Racquel in the Wild is a sort of part 1 to Christy in the Wild--both films of course feature the same main actors. This was a fairly tasteful adult film overall. Christy Canyon was well past her prime but still energizes the cast. This film may have been at least her 10th return from retirement, but that doesn't alter her place in adult film lore! Racquel Darrian, on the other hand, was indeed still in her prime when she made this picture. That being said, this film wasn't her best performance, lacking excitement and enthusiasm on her part. Derrick Lane and Jon Dough perform adequately, on par with their other films. Most scenes are shot outdoors, however the lighting is still a bit dark.