Have spoken frequently the past couple of years on here of my love for Rabbit Ears Productions' adaptations (in animated and audio book form for almost all) of the likes of Beatrix Potter, Hans Christian Andersen, Rudyard Kipling. As well as adaptations of foreign folk-tales, inspirational heroes and legends and religious stories. Love how accessible they are for the whole family, that they are well made and that they are narrated by people chosen for being considerably talented rather than just star-power.
'Davy Crockett', which is actually from 1992, is one of the adaptations of Rabbit Ears Productions' American Heroes and Legends series from 1992-1994. Other series of theirs being Storybook Classics (1985-1990), Tales from Around the World (1991-1994), The Greatest Stories Ever Told (1991-1994) and Holiday Specials (1986-1994). 'Davy Crockett', sticking closer to the legend than the history, is not one of my favourites of theirs and do prefer other adaptations in the American Heroes and Legends series, namely 'Follow the Drinkin Gourd' and 'John Henry'.
Will admit to preferring the character drawings in other Rabbit Ears Productions adaptations, where this aspect is more refined in them. They're never cheap here in 'Davy Crockett' and are effectively simple, other adaptations are more refined and inventive in this regard. The backgrounds though are very charming and the colours having the right amount of atmosphere.
Also really liked the jaunty banjo music, the music has always been a major plus point in the Rabbit Ears Productions adaptations and a big part of their appeal. The banjo is a lovely instrument, perfect for this type of story and has a lot of rollicking energy in how it's used here. All that's missing is a catchy theme song, akin to the one that Disney has.
Generally am not a fan of Nicholas Cage, though have nothing against him either, but he provides very spirited narration delivery that is involving enough for children to listen to when they are about to go to bed. The narration writing is very light-hearted, amusing and charming, nothing cheesy and nothing over-complicated either. The political element of the story doesn't go over the heads and doesn't preach.
The story always engages, there is a very funny sequence with Davy and the log, bees and bear and the adventure element is exciting. A great job is done making the man and his story accessible and easy to understand for younger viewers/listeners, without any dumbing down. This is something with plenty of appeal for the whole family. It also is effective in making one want to know more about them. Which is something that Rabbit Ears Productions' American Heroes and Legends adaptations were very good at, especially apparent in 'John Henry'.
In conclusion, not one of my favourites from Rabbit Ears Productions but still great. 9/10.
