UNCLE SAM MAGOO

American History in a nutshell
Clear, bright graphics, it looks like it's been restored. Using the same gimmick as "Magoo's Christmas Carol," Mr. Magoo is doing a stage show as Uncle Sam. The show is amazingly detailed, starting with the Vikings, and continuing through Columbus, and eventually the English coming to America. Using songs, we are led through the settling of America, the wars we fought in, famous Americans, and even the Industrial Revolution. Surprisingly, it does not sugar-coat history, covering the slaughter of the buffalo, the Civil War, and the sorrow of the Native Americans at our "progress." Even though they brought in Paul Bunyan, they were careful to identify him as a fictional character. One or two characters (like Johnny Appleseed) were a little over the top, presumably to keep the kids entertained. Altogether an enjoyable, educational cartoon that should be brought out on American holidays like Independence Day, and not allowed to disappear. On par with "Scholastic Rock" offerings.

Average Magoo Special from 1970
Mr. Magoo has had a lengthy career from theatrical cartoons in the 1940s and 50s to three different TV series: "Mr. Magoo" (1960), "The Famous Adventures of Mr. Magoo" (1964) and "What's New, Mr. Magoo" (1977). There was also a theatrical animated feature "1001 Arabian Nights" (1959) and a lousy live action film starring Leslie Nielsen. Sandwiched between all of this were a couple of primetime TV specials, one which is excellent "Magoo's Christmas Carol" (1962) and one not so excellent "Uncle Sam Magoo" (1970). The only thing going for it is it is the last new Magoo show to be produced by UPA ("What's New, Mr. Magoo" was produced by DePatie-Freleng). The biggest problem with it is, although somewhat historical, it is also quite boring. The best moments are at the beginning when Magoo is arriving at the UPA studios. As usual, Jim Backus voices, but it is not enough to perk up the proceedings. Check out "Magoo's Christmas Carol" instead.

Uncle Sam Mr. Magoo
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