'Medicur' (1976)
Opening thoughts: 'Medicur' is the last cartoon of the Dogfather series, and it really isn't particularly good and a good example actually of what the series frequently did wrong. It is not one of the worst Dogfather cartoons, or not quite, but all the usual problems are present, it feels very bland and derivative and nothing new is done with a premise that has been done to death. Only one character stands out here, and the character that should make the biggest impression and is usually a redeeming quality makes no impact.
Good things: The best character by far is Rocky, though he is pretty much Looney Tunes' Rocky in canine form. He is very crafty and menacing and the only character in the cartoon to show any personality. The music at least fits and appeals on the ear, the theme song is catchy and upbeat.
Also thought that the voice acting was more than serviceable. The set up was quite nice.
Bad things: Despite the material in 'Medicur' not being good at all, the gags are too few and too much like stale retreads of pre-existing past-prime Looney Tunes gags, only the beginning stands out in terms of memorability. Everything else left my head pretty much immediately after the cartoon was over. The cartoony violence is too tame, while the at times childish comedy by adult standards and complicated mobster terminology that will go over younger viewers' heads doesn't ever gel and made me question the target audience. There is no energy here and everything feels tired.
Story-wise, there is absolutely nothing to write home about. Not only is it very predictable, but it is very thin too with the second half being plotless pretty much. The dogfather on the whole was a compelling lead, but he has very little to do here and feels too much like a supporting character. So he comes over as bland, even his trickery makes little impact and is pretty tame for him. There is no chemistry or tension between him or Rocky, and Rocky not being recognised for so long when he would in no way pass for a nurse requires some real suspension of disbelief. The doctor is pointless and one forgets that he was even present.
Closing thoughts: In conclusion, lacklustre way to end a theatrical series that on the whole left me indifferent.
4/10.
