Have always been very fond of Garfield. He is a very funny and lovable character and 'Garfield and Friends' and his specials (like some more than others though) hold up very well today. Actually perhaps even better now as an adult but a child somewhat at heart than as a child. This is not nostalgia talking as there have been things loved as a child watched much later, and the question "what made me like this when younger?" Not so with 'Garfield and Friends' or his specials.
'Garfield Goes Hollywood' is not one of the best known Garfield specials and that is a shame. It is far from his best special (my personal favourites always having been 'A Garfield Christmas Special' and 'Garfield in Disguise', particularly the former), or even one of them, but it does deserve to be known more. Just because it is not as known well as some of the others doesn't mean it's bad, actually have always liked 'Garfield Goes Hollywood' and don't find an awful lot wrong with it at all. Just that it misses the extra something that the best of them had in comparison.
Yes, 'Garfield Goes Hollywood' doesn't have the emotional impact or heart of some of the other Garfield specials, though it is not devoid of either. Others are more memorable.
Others also have supporting characters that stick in the head longer than the ones here.
There are many great merits with 'Garfield Goes Hollywood' though. The animation is still as colourful as remembered with the generally smooth drawing (some transitions lack finesse on occasions), far from sparse backgrounds and attention to detail holding up really well. Some of the other specials are more memorable in the music department, but the music and songs still fit with no problem and very pleasant and catchy listens, especially "Desiree's Meow Solo".
Entertainment value, as to be expected, is non-stop, with some hilarious gags and wry and witty writing. Rarely have asides and sarcasm being funnier and more endearing for any character than with Garfield. Although not as strong as in other Garfield specials, the heart is there as is the charm, the sentiment being touching and not done in a preachy manner and the sweetness not being sugary. The story is thin but not dull and has a fun and affectionate atmosphere, that evokes excitement and nostalgia. The setting is put to imaginative use.
Garfield is as hilarious and lovable as ever and can never get enough of Odie, who is so cute. Their chemistry is one of the main reasons why 'Garfield Goes Hollywood' works so well, their dance number is a standout scene and one of my favourite Garfield/Odie scenes ever. Jon is amusing and he does not come over as annoying or bland here. Have no qualms with the voice acting, Lorenzo Music has never been bettered, or even equalled, as the voice of Garfield.
Overall, not one of my favourites but have always liked it a lot and still do. 8/10 Bethany Cox
