jonathan-1974

I must admit I was a bit dubious about this new special for it was the 1st one without the great and late Bill Melendez. It seems Lee Mendelson was not involved either, but Schulz' son was. This one stood out from all the other post-Schulz era specials for its '60s style. As a comic-strip fan I appreciate attention to detail. The "classic" effect obtained through the retro animation worked out pretty well, bringing some nostalgia. The story development was somewhat modern, deeper, beyond previous attempts, and yet kept all the action faithful to the Peanuts world and spirit. The gags were delightfully funny, they cracked me up quite a few times. I simply loved the use of one of the most famous Beethoven symphonies, but I won't spoil it for you. Not only the music, but the way they managed to create a matching animated treat, was indeed a creative highlight.

The color tones used according to mood, the "reaction" of some cards to Linus' feelings, and flashbacks to the very first specials truly shone.

The plot might not be complex. However, by using the well-known blanket attachment issues Linus has, they address the insecurity most of the other characters have, their human weakness, which is not to plainly be criticized, but rather accepted as a natural part of life.

Another remarkable element was the comeback of some old characters that had not gotten much attention over the years. Again, an interesting addition for all the fans, in an already captivating special that has enough quality potential to be considered an instant Peanuts classic.

Growing up was never as bittersweet, and as thoroughly enjoyable as doing it along Linus, Snoopy, good ol' Charlie Brown, and the rest of the gang!

After I watched this short, I felt sorry that it wasn't any longer, 'cause I enjoyed the way Rusty Nails describes the band, while giving the viewers a quick picture of life in NY during the 70s, and also how the Ramones changed his life forever through music and by helping him survive during those difficult teenage years, full of rebellion, society's rejection and just growing up in the suburbs, holding on to the music genre that many say saved rock 'n roll in some way over 30 years ago (punk rock).

It's also quite interesting watching the rare footage from some early Ramones' show in color and good enough quality, which is not something common at all to find nowadays, not even on bootlegs, documentaries or official releases of the band.

The edition was pretty well done and Rusty Nails made it certainly short and fast, just like the classic Ramones' songs.

So, in my opinion it's a really worth-watching film, plus it's only 6 mins. long so there's no good reason to avoid it. If you're a ramoniac person or even just a punk rock fan or feel indentified with teenage rebellion, you can easily find this video, entertaining.