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.
'Rover's Rival' is an early Porky Pig and Bob Clampett cartoon, and, while not one of the best for either of them, it is evidence of why Clampett was regarded highly and why Porky is still a well-loved character. Story-wise, 'Rover's Rival' is fairly formulaic, and as likeable as Porky is he is a little bland here and plays second fiddle to Rover (the butt of the joke and one we feel sorry for) and especially the cartoon-stealing puppy.
Mel Blanc is outstanding as always however. He always was the infinitely more preferable voice for Porky, Joe Dougherty never clicked with me, and he proves it in 'Rover's Rival'. Blanc shows an unequalled versatility and ability to bring an individual personality to every one of his multiple characters in a vast majority of his work, there is no wonder why he was in such high demand as a voice actor. Robert C Bruce is good as Rover.
The animation is excellent, it's fluid in movement, crisp in shading and very meticulous in detail. The story may be predictable, but it's beautifully paced with never a dull moment and strongly structured.
Clampett directs wittily, though he did take more risks and show more invention later and Chuck Jones provides some fun visual characterisation.
Writing is witty and never less than amusing. Likewise with the sight gags, which are peppered throughout with little sense of unsettlement.
As ever, Carl Stalling's music is typically superb. It is as always lushly orchestrated, full of lively energy and characterful in rhythm, not only adding to the action but also enhancing it.
In summation, not an animated masterpiece but with a lot of very good things. 8/10 Bethany Cox
