Shirt
Tales: The Complete Series
(1982 - 1984/Hanna - Barbera/Warner Archives DVD)
Picture:
B- Sound: B- Extras: D Episodes: B-
Based
on the 1980s Hallmark Greetings Cards line of the same name, Shirt
Tales lasted
two seasons for a total of 23 episodes. Though not quite as
successful as the similarly constructed Care Bears line, Shirt
Tales did
leave a lasting impression as it not only spurred cards and a TV
series, but a toy line as well.
Each
episode was 22 minutes in length, but split into two 11 minute
segments. There was a standard cast of characters which included
Rick Raccoon, Digger Mole, Pammy Panda, Tyg Tiger, Digger Mole, Bogey
Orangutan, and Mr. Dingle (the park ranger). In Season
2, Kip
Kangaroo was added to the cast of animals (without explanation) and
fit in nicely. The episodes were all family friendly with wholesome
messages about sharing, friendship, and generally the lighter side of
life.
Season
One had
Rick Raccoon as the groups (unofficial) leader, but Season
Two (without
explanation) placed Tyg Tiger in that role. This didn't hurt the
atmosphere or style of the series, but was rather abrupt. Season
One had
the characters fighting crime in their town of Mid City; while also
spending a considerable amount of time harassing park ranger Mr.
Dinkle. They travel the world in the STSST or Shirt Tale Super Sonic
Transport, which could change into almost any vehicle imaginable.
Season
Two shifted
the series to somewhat of a superhero element with 'costume changes'
occurring when 'Shirt
Time!'
was called; among other superhero-like features. Other characters
made brief appearances in Season
Two (including
a Skunk, Owl, Fox, and Prairie Dog), but were never made into long
running characters.
The
series was fun and lighthearted, but nothing incredibly unique; like
previously mentioned, using a similar formula to that of Care
Bears and
other animated series of the time. Shirt
Tales holds
a special place in 80s animation history and the hearts of many, many
fans.
The
picture and sound quality have been remastered (to a degree) and look
quite good. The picture is a 1.33 X 1 Full Frame that does display
some dirt, debris, and grain but overall boasts of bright colors and
a clear image. The sound is a simple, lossy Dolby Digital Mono that
comes exclusively from the front, but again is clean and clear.
There
are no extras on this DVD-R set.
A
great series to you can own today, just hop on over to Warner
Archives and check it out at this link:
https://www.warnerarchive.com/
-
Michael P. Dougherty II
