Love animation to bits. It was a big part of my life as a child, especially Disney, Looney Tunes, Hanna Barbera and Tom and Jerry (with tastes broadening further getting older with Pixar, Studio Ghibli and some of the more mature animations out there), and still love it to this day as a young adult whether it's film, television or cartoons. Actually appreciate it even more now, with more knowledge of the different animation styles, directors, studios and what work went into them.
'Animaniacs' has always been one of my favourites. From an early age, it always stood out as one of the most colourful, unique, funniest and cleverest shows, animated and otherwise, ever made. It is not to be dismissed as a show just for children. There is plenty for children to enjoy, any child who loves great animation, humour to laugh at and unique characters will be in heaven. There is more than plenty for adults too, especially the hugely clever in-jokes/poking fun that is likely to be better understood by older viewers with more familiarity for what is being referenced and poked fun at.
This is a brilliant episode in a show where even the weakest episodes were not failures and one where there were many classics. Not quite one of my favourites though.
Here, the animation is very well done, with vibrant colouring, crisp beautiful backgrounds and convincing movements for the characters. The music is not only catchy it is actually memorable as well, with an instantly hummable main theme.
The scripts and humour are witty and hilarious with clever references and inside jokes. Especially in "Night of the Living Buttons". As are the situations no matter how silly they are the characters get into. This all springs from a great concept, some shows have a great concept but don't live up to it.
'Animaniacs' was always one of the finest examples of execution of a great concept doing that and superbly, with the story lines here being funny and endearing. "A Very Very Very Very Special Show" avoided being too heavy-handed while making its point, but for me the best was the very funny and creepy "Night of the Living Buttons". The characters are immensely likable with unique personalities, with no exception.
Have no qualms with the uniformly terrific voice acting from some of the most talented voice actors from that period and in the business.
In summary, brilliant. 10/10 Bethany Cox
