I first watched this unusual cartoon a few decades ago on a local PBS station program that showed public domain films. I don't remember laughing as much as marveling at the audacity of Marv Newland to put such a shocking image as that of a giant lizard foot going down on the peaceful deer eating grass just after the "Overture from William Tell: Ranz de Vaches" by Gioachino Rossini played during the beginning credits which has Newland's name constantly crawling up during each one and then segueing to the final sound of The Beatles' "A Day in the Life" droning on as that foot stands still on that poor deer with only the nails moving downward. It's still not a laugh-out-loud moment for me but it's still a fascinating and iconic animation moment to look at just the same...

Bambi Meets Godzilla (1969) **** (out of 4) This animated short is considered one of the greatest ever made even though it barely runs over a minute and the majority of that running time is just the credits. I'm going to reveal what happens so if you don't want to know then go see the film first. Bambi certainly meets Godzilla but it's when the big lizard steps down killing the deer who was just minding his own business eating grass. That's pretty much the whole film but it's so damn funny that you can't help but love it. I certainly understand why this thing has gained a legendary status and it deserves it.

What would happen if one of the most celebrated, most recognizable animated characters in pop culture history encountered an equally celebrated, even more recognizable giant reptilian from Tokyo? This movie answers this question and more, as it takes up themes like the inevitability of the end of everything and the timeless wonders of nature. Bambi is so utterly convincing as Bambi it's hard to tell that this is all acting. Godzilla's appearance, although short, is extremely entertaining and memorable. The animation, although sketchy, creates a certain atmosphere which makes the film stay with you long after it has ended. "BmG" also features one of the most unique and mind-blowing twist endings of all time. It can be seen as a "Sixth Sense" with furry animals.This is a masterpiece of the highest order and the best movie you're ever likely to see about wildlife culture clashes. A must-own.10/10

The credit sequence (which is extensive) is hilarious. (I believe this movie influenced Monty Python's credit sequences.) It falls prey to the same sync problems which plague most Japanese imports. Although the plot is simple, it has become a classic because of its direct approach to universal themes and interpretations ranging from "good vs evil" to "little guy vs corporate greed." Marxist undertones are not hard to see here. The director's clear point of view and gracious acknowledgment of the many (usually anonymous) workers whose contributions blend seamlessly to make this classic make this one of the least didactic of the Godzilla canon.