Now available, The Looney Tunes Show: Season One, Volume 2 collects four episodes from the new Cartoon Network series on one DVD. At just 89 minutes, it’s perfect for kids with short attention spans, or even adult fans who would like access to the show anywhere, anytime. I was genuinely surprised at how good the series really is; I would encourage anyone with a soft spot for Looney Tunes to check this one out.
The series concept is an incredibly simple one: Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck are roommates. The suburb of Los Angeles where they live is filled with classic Looney Tunes characters, including Sylvester and Tweety, Porky Pig, Yosemite Sam, Witch Lezah and the Tasmanian Devil. In the discs first episode, “Monster Talent,” Daffy Duck attempts to mentor the hapless Gossamer. Meanwhile, Bugs Bunny finds himself a local celebrity after filming a commercial for Speedy Gonzales’ new line of frozen pizzas. “Reunion,” finds Daffy Duck invited to his high school reunion. However, He’s not looking forward to going because he hasn’t accomplished anything since graduating. In contrast, Bugs has always wanted to attend a reunion, and talks Daffy into taking him along. Once they arrive, Daffy decides to bluff his way through the reunion by lying about his profession. In “Casa de Calma,” Bugs and Daffy visit a resort, where they find themselves involved in many wacky situations while trying to woo the lovely Starlett Johansson. In “Devil Dog,” The Tasmanian Devil shows up at Bugs and Daffy’s house. Bugs mistakenly believes Taz is a dog and wants to adopt him. Poor Daffy must cope as the savage beast relentlessly pursues him.
Each episode also features a Merrie Melodies short, with classic characters singing new songs. Rounding out the variety format, each episode also includes a Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote short.
The 1.78:1 standard definition anamorphic widescreen transfer is a good one, offering nice bright colors, solid detail and no real digital issues to speak of.
The Dolby 5.1 audio track is a simple mix, but it supplies solid dialogue, and a nice array of effects when called upon.
With the series still in the midst of its first season on The Cartoon Network, it’s hard to say for sure what will become of The Looney Tunes Show, but if these episodes are any indication, the future is bright.