King Kong, Vol. 1 (Animated TV Series)
The ageless "King of the Beasts" never looked so good in this much-anticipated release ofThe Animated Series, a two-volume collection (sold separately) of long unseen episodes from the 1966 television series,The King Kong Show. The Saturday morning cartoon from Rankin/Bass Productions (ofRudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeerfame) ran until 1969 producing 24 episodes plus a pilot (which later split into two shows), based on the classic 1933 black and white Fay Wray film. This first volume of the set features the pilot show, "A Friend in Need," and four original episodes presented with opening and closing titles, commercial bumpers, and teaser footage of the next show. Each episode contains two seven-minute Kong adventures on Mondo Island where renowned scientist Professor Bond is conducting extended explorations aided by his children, Bobby and Susan. The tropical isle is home to prehistoric animals including the fifty-foot ape that rescues Bobby from a T-Rex and, subsequently, is befriended by the family. Whether battling the bad guys of Volcania, evil scientist Dr. Who, or the nefarious animal hunter Ulrich von Kramer, Kong plays the part of friend or foe in legendary struggles of good versus evil.  The 1966 'toon marked the first time Japanese anime was specifically created for American audiences. While such early animation seems unrefined by today's standards, the DVD's picture quality is superb as are the sound effects, editing, and theme song. Sandwiched between each pair of Kong thrillers is a tongue-in cheek tale ofTom of T.H.U.M.B., the madcap spy spoof featuring 4-inch high agents Tom and sidekick "Swingin' Jack."  Both storylines--Kong and Tom--are refreshingly simple blending humor, mild suspense, and witty repartee. Here's hoping that the remaining 16 Kong episodes will be forthcoming. (All ages)--Lynn Gibson