Winging into action, our feathered host leads us on a short flight into the world of all things avian. After learning about the vital impact - yet sad history - of our little flying friends, we are left with the inescapable conclusion that IT'S TOUGH TO BE A BIRD.
This delightful Disney cartoon, winner of the 1969 Oscar for Best Animated Short, is great fun. It is most enjoyable to see the antique film clips & to be reminded of the old birdie tunes. But beyond the laughs are some important elements dealing with bird biology & preservation.
Ward Kimball, authentic genius, master animator & one of Walt's Nine Old Men, co-authored & directed this short, infusing it with his unique brand of quirky humor. Movie mavens will spot him as the bird watcher holding the tape recorder. Richard Bakalyan does a fine job as the narrator with attitude; that's Ruth Buzzi hilariously warbling `When The Buzzards Return To Hinckley Ridge.' Give yourself a golden goose egg if you can spot Donald Duck.