Pecos Bill as a character is an interesting one, one of the "big man legend" sort of characters, and his adventures are good fun. My first exposure to the character quite some while back was through the 'Pecos Bill' segment featured in Disney's 'Melody Time', a segment that did leave a sizeable impression on me and made me interested enough in hearing and knowing more about the character. Generally he is not portrayed enough.
Rabbit Ears Productions for just over a decade made a number of fine animated adaptations of classic children's literature, and their 'Pecos Bill' is one of their most acclaimed. It also doesn't hurt having the very talented Robin Williams during one of his peak periods, whose untimely death is still a loss deeply felt, as narrator. Seeing 'Pecos Bill' for myself, it is no wonder as to why it is considered one of Rabbit Ears Productions' best. It is certainly among my favourites of theirs, speaking as somebody that loves most of them.
There is so much to love here. My favourite aspect of 'Pecos Bill' is the music score. All solo guitar driven it is incredibly atmospheric and has real authenticity, also really liked the folksy and country music approach it had at points and thought they were very appropriate stylistically. In terms of atmosphere, the music was perfectly pitched (pun intended). The upbeat tone early on was really charming and the more intense moments later on contrasted very well and didn't jar, which it could easily have done and a potential trap for tonal changes.
Close behind is Williams' narration. He is immensely engaging and manages to be very funny (without going into overdrive) and energetic, as well as sincere. He really did sound like he was having the time of his life when recording and that level of energy and committment adds so much to the enjoyment, he even makes the perilous moments exciting when emphasising Pecos Bill's heroism. Even the cowboy accent, an easy one to stereotype, is nailed.
Am another person that loves the animation, which was hardly a surprise as all the adaptations in the series are well animated. It has a simple style but it is not too limited and contains some of the most colourful, rich and fun to watch visuals of the series. Loved the character design for Pecos Bill himself and there are some nice little moments like with the rattlesnake.
Furthermore, the writing is full of humour, never predictable shocks and intrigue. The storytelling is high in adventure in an exciting way and the darker moments are suspenseful but never too scary. Pecos Bill is a likeable character and is wonderfully heroic.
Overall, brilliant and one of the best of the series. 10/10
