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.
'Sniffles Bells the Cat' is not one of the best cartoons featuring the character. It's nice enough but it's not particularly great. The story is pretty flimsy and there is an over-familiarity with the premise. The funny moments are only amusing and there aren't quite enough and the cartoon does seem to be trying too hard to be cute with the other mice, who are cloying.
However, Sniffles is sweet and well-meaning and the cat is a good antagonistic contrast, a far more interesting characterisation of cats than in 'Naughty But Mice'. 'Sniffles Bells the Cat' is likable and amusing.
As to be expected, the 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).
On the whole, decent. 6/10 Bethany Cox
