Love animation, it was a big part of my life as a child, particularly Disney, Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry, and still love it whether it's film, television or cartoons.
'Scalp Trouble' may not be as hilarious or as consistently inventive as other Bob Clampett cartoons, and it doesn't quite see the best of Porky Pig and Daffy Duck either. It is an entertaining and well-made cartoon though, and is not nearly as sombre or serious as the story summary makes out somewhat. Despite any reservations at all, knowing that Porky and Daffy battle Indians, there is nothing to be offended by really.
Is 'Scalp Trouble' a classic? No, not quite. The story is basic and occasionally momentum could have been tighter. Porky could have had more to do perhaps, and Clampett's unmistakable style has come through with more wit and consistency in other cartoons of his.
However, showcasing very well why they became to be, and still are, so popular and why they collaborated so frequently, Porky and Daffy are a classic collaboration and work so well, though there could have been a little more of them together perhaps. Porky is amusing and endearing, doing a great job playing it straight. Daffy though is the funnier and more interesting in personality character, he is in full manic energy mode. The Indians are amusing.
Mel Blanc is outstanding as always. He shows an unequalled versatility and ability to bring an individual personality to every one of his multiple characters in a vast majority of his work, there is no wonder why he was in such high demand as a voice actor.
The animation is excellent, it's fluid in movement, crisp in shading and very meticulous in detail. Some of the visuals are wonderfully outrageous in pure Clampett style. While not completely hilarious and some of the material is very familiar, the humour is delivered with smooth timing and a sense of fun. The singing of "Ten Little Indians" was a highlight, as is anything with Daffy and bullets.
Carl Stalling's music is typically superb. It is as always lushly orchestrated, full of lively energy and characterful in rhythm, not only adding to the action but also enhancing it.
In conclusion, worth a look. 7/10 Bethany Cox
