Chuck Jones is widely considered one of animation's finest directors/animators and for very good reason. When he was at his best, his cartoons were masterpieces of animation, comic timing, characterisation and wit.
The Sniffles cartoon series were very early efforts for Jones, and, while they are interesting from a historical perspective, it is safe to say that from personal opinion they really don't see him at his best. There is somewhat of a still finding his feet feel here, with the humour once he became a regular director for the Looney Tunes/Merrie Melodies cartoons becoming much funnier, more constant and wittier and the characterisation far more interesting.
Not all the Sniffles cartoons have worked for me, though none of them are unwatchable. 'Lost and Foundling' is one of his better ones. There is nothing exceptional about the story, in terms of structure and predictability, and the ending is far too pat.
However, 'Lost and Foundling' is charming and heart-warming, although there is a sweetness it's not too saccharine and it doesn't despite the theme try as hard as other Sniffles cartoon to be too cute. There are amusing, if never quite hilarious, moments and Sniffles has evolved and is more than a typical cloyingly sweet character. Orville is a nice supporting character, and the tension and fun between them charms.
'Lost and Foundling's' animation is very good. It is lush and vibrant in colour and meticulous and beautifully drawn in detail. The character designs are fluid, well drawn and distinctive Jones, if not the creative ones of his very best cartoons. Carl Stalling's music is lush and characterful, with clever orchestration and a mastery of not just adding to the action but enhancing it as well (Stalling was a near-unequalled master at this, though Scott Bradley gave him a run for his money).
In conclusion, very nicely done for what it was. 8/10 Bethany Cox
