Hurdy-Gurdy Hare (1950) Review: Animated Antics with Bugs Bunny!

Video version available on YouTube. Please note that certain sections may not translate well to the audio only format. 

In this episode, we review the Looney Tunes short 'Hurdy Gurdy Hair', released on January 21, 1950, and directed by Bob McKimson. Joined by special guest Manny Cruz, we delve into its plot where Bugs Bunny buys a hurdy-gurdy and a monkey to make some money, only to end up grappling with a gorilla. We discuss the historical and cultural references in the short, such as the American Federation of Musicians head James C. Petrillo and the organ-grinder tradition. The episode includes insights from Paul Dini’s DVD commentary and a breakdown of the music and animation specifics. We also touch on the evolution of Bugs Bunny’s design and the short’s depiction of New York City. 

 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:36 Overview of Hurdy-Gurdy Hare

01:43 Animator Breakdown and Historical Context

02:42 Who is Petrillo?

05:49 The Hurdy Gurdy and Street Organ Explained

09:33 Cartoon Analysis and Trivia

18:03 Musical References and Final Thoughts