Love animation, it was a big part of my life as a child, particularly Disney, Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry, and still love it whether it's film, television or cartoons.
'Porky's Pet' shows that, as to be expected, that Porky is a likable character and he is and also amusing, cute and interesting, though to me he works better in support against a stronger in personality character, where he plays it straight, than a lead. The ostrich is a great pet companion, very funny and matches Porky in cuteness and likability. 'Porky's Pet' may not be Porky at his best, this was not quite his prime period, but one can definitely see why he was popular at the time and how he remained so.
As far as the story goes it is pretty slight and, although this is personal preference and something not everyone will share, Joe Dougherty's voice for Porky has never really done it for me. It's not just because Mel Blanc's more famous interpretation is more appealing to me and fits better but Dougherty doesn't sound anywhere near as natural or endearing, have always found that he overdid the stutter and that's true here too.
On the other hand, the animation is characteristically great, especially in the first half, crisp, detailed and fluid throughout.
The music is not Carl Stalling or Scott Bradley and does lack variety at times, but it is still lush and characterful and adds a good deal to the action if not quite enhancing it.
While not hilarious, the gags are numerous and they are never less than very funny. Some of the best moments belong to the ostrich. The cartoon goes at a lively pace, never does it get dull.
Concluding, nice effort. 7/10 Bethany Cox
