The Chronological Duck is part of the Walt Disney Treasures series. Thus far in the UK there has only been four releases compared to the US but I understand that more are planned. These are limited edition tin sets of some of their more treasures releases and aimed probably more at the collection and Disney nut, but lets not forget that these are endlessly enjoyable short cartoons and collection, which do have cross age appeal.
Donald was created by Disney as they found because Mickey had become such a beloved figure, they were limited in what they were able to do with him. For instance Mickey could never be portrayed as being vindictive or cruel. A new stooge was required and in response Donald was born. Introduced in 1934 in the short 'The Wise Little Hen' (included on this collection, it wouldn't be until 1936 the Donald we know would appear properly. Constantly frustrated with the world around him, and endlessly endearing because of it Donald can only be described as borderline psychotic.
Introduced by Leonard Maltin, noted film historian and Disney aficionado, this is a must have purchase for any Donald fan or any fan of the Disney shorts. Containing all the short features released between 1934 - 1941 and running at over 4 and a half hours it will keep any Disney fan occupied for some time. I have a 5 year old who remains glued to the TV when these are on so it goes to show that they loose none of their appeal with their age.
The short features that appear here are the original cinematically released cartoons that ran regularly in from of the 'A' feature (the main picture). I should probably explain that originally cinemas ran a constant programme of short features / cartoons, a news reel, the main feature and occasionally a B feature.(this is where the term 'B' movie comes from as they were normally pretty cheap affairs in all respects)
It is nice to see these shorts getting the presentation they deserved. This is after all what was the backbone of the Disney studio and came about long before the feature films. Considering that the earliest one are nearly 70 years old, the picture quality is extraordinary and it goes to show that the lengths that Disney has gone to preserve their archives has paid off. The sound of course is mono but that it only to be expected and I'm glad to see that they have resisted the temptation to remaster them into stereo.
The Shorts included are
Disc One The Wise Little Hen (Excerpt) 1936: Donald and Pluto 1937: Don Donald, Modern Inventions, Donald's Ostrich 1938: Self Control, Donald's Better Self, Donald's Nephews, Polar Trappers, Good Scouts, The Fox Hunt, Donald's Golf Game 1939: Donald's Lucky Day, Hockey Champ, Donald's Cousin Gus, Beach Picnic, Sea Scouts, Donald's Penguin, The Autograph Hound, Officer Duck Disc Two 1940: The Riveter, Donald's Dog Laundry, Billposters, Mr. Duck Steps Out, Put-Put Troubles, Donald's Vacation, Window Cleaners, Fire Chief 1941: Timber, Golden Eggs, A Good Time for a Dime, Early to Bed, Truant Officer Donald, Old MacDonald Duck, Donald's Camera, Chef Donald
These can be watched in one of three ways; either individually, in chronological (release) order or in alphabetical order. Also watch out on those menus for hidden features (worth searching around the screen with the cursor - nuf said).
There are several special features included on this release include a Publicity and Memorabilia Gallery, a Story and Background Art Gallery and a short feature called ''The Man Behind the Duck'' which looks at Clarence Nash who was the original voice of Donald and continued to voice him up until his death. There are also several easter eggs (hidden features) hidden on various menus. I won't spoil it for you and reveal where they are but if you get stuck try a web site such as www.eeggs.com for the locations.
The set them selves are lovingly presented in a metal tin inside which is housed the normal case in a velvet style surround. The UK releases come in slightly larger tins that their Region 1 counterparts (US / Canada) and I personally prefer those tins but the basics design remains.
Volume 2 is due for US release later this year so the UK release is expected to follow at some point in 2006. Volume 2 should include the rest of Donald's short features from 1942 - 1948.
Sound: Dolby Digital Mono Picture: Color And Black & White Running time: 4 hours 35 mins
Recommended retail cost is £17.99 but this can be found for lower if you shop around.
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Sounds like a great item. I used to watch a lot of Disney cartoons, but I had no idea when they came out. What a great idea to put them in context with when they were made. You obviously enjoyed this set, and so does your 5 year old. Nuf said about what you thought in my opinion. Great review. Esther x.
MAFARRIMOND 05.08.2005 02:56
I would love it. Maureen
lizrow 04.08.2005 22:22
hia good review, try a it of personal experience in there u no like what you thought xxx
It was 1934 when the irascible Donald Duck came to life in a teeny bit of a part in The ... more
Wise Little Hen and proceeded to steal the show. From that point on nobody could hold him back, and the much loved cranky character went on to be the most prolific ...
It was 1934 when the irascible Donald Duck came to life in a teeny bit of a part in The ... more
Wise Little Hen and proceeded to steal the show. From that point on nobody could hold him back, and the much loved cranky character went on to be the most prolific ...
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