Watch Bugs & Daffy: The Wartime Cartoons

Bugs & Daffy: The Wartime Cartoons is a compilation of classic Looney Tunes cartoons produced during the World War II era, released in 1989. The film is introduced by film critic Leonard Maltin, who offers some historical context and insight into the production of these cartoons. The film features the iconic characters of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, as well as other popular Looney Tunes characters like Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd, and Sylvester the Cat. The cartoons were produced by Warner Bros. during the war years, from 1941 to 1945, and were intended as propaganda for the war effort.

The film includes 11 cartoons in total, each with a different theme and storyline. In many of the cartoons, the characters are portrayed as soldiers, with Bugs and Daffy often serving in the army or navy. The cartoons also feature a number of wartime themes, including rationing, victory gardens, and support for the troops.

One of the standout cartoons in the film is "Russian Rhapsody," which features a group of Gremlin-like creatures sabotaging a German plane. The cartoon is notable for its depiction of the enemy as cartoonish and ridiculous, which was a common tactic in war-era propaganda.

Another memorable cartoon is "The Ducktators," in which Daffy Duck portrays a dictator leading a group of other ducks in a battle against the "good guys" (represented by Bugs Bunny). The cartoon is a satirical take on the fascist regimes of the time and offers a more nuanced commentary on the war effort.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to the classic humor and animation styles that have made Looney Tunes a beloved part of American culture. Mel Blanc, the legendary voice actor who provided the voices for Bugs and Daffy (among many others), is in top form, delivering hilarious one-liners and memorable catchphrases.

Billy Bletcher, another famous voice actor from the era, also provides voice work for several of the cartoons, including the iconic "Hare Trigger," which sees Bugs battling it out with some old West villains.

Overall, Bugs & Daffy: The Wartime Cartoons is a must-see for any fan of classic Looney Tunes. The film offers a glimpse into a unique period in American history, where even the world of animation was turned to the task of supporting the war effort.