Hey There, It’s Yogi Bear (1964) – Review

Hanna-Barbera ruled television animation for decades, from producing such classics as The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! to more weird offerings like The Herculoids and Space Ghost and Dino Boy, but in 1964 they did the unthinkable and released not only their first theatrical feature but also the first animated theatrical film based on a TV series.

Released in 1964 and directed by Joseph Barbera and William Hanna, Hey There, It’s Yogi Bear takes the iconic characters from their popular television show and transported them lock, stock and picnic basket into a feature-length escapade that would take fans on an adventure with the mischievous and charming Yogi Bear.  Along with his faithful sidekick, Boo Boo, they would venture outside of Jellystone Park in search of new adventures and maybe a little rumpty-tumpty. The movie starts out like your average misadventure of Yogi Bear (Daws Butler), with his constant raiding of “pic-a-nic” baskets, until his latest scam results in a very fed-up Ranger Smith (Don Messick) sending him off to the San Diego Zoo for good, but Yogi isn’t one to take things lying down and he’s able con fellow Jellystone bear Corn Pone (Hal Smith) into taking his place. Yogi then adopts the guise of “The Brown Phantom” and begins a new reign of terror on the camper’s Lunchables.

“What in the hell is a Brown Phantom?”

Unfortunately, Cindy Bear (Julie Bennett), who is madly in love with Yogi, is unaware of the switch and when Boo Boo (Don Messick) tells her that Yogi had been sent to San Diego Zoo she decides to take the blame for the actions of “The Brown Phantom” so that she will be sent off on her own trip to zoo so that she can be reunited with her one true love. However, she gets sent to the St. Louis Zoo by train instead, as the San Diego Zoo does not need any more bears. But even that doesn’t quite go as planned as her cage falls off the train and she ends up in the clutches of Grifter Chizzling (Mel Blanc) and is brother Snively (J. Pat O’Malley) and their faithful dog Mugger (Don Messick) who collectively run a broken down travelling circus that is desperately in need of a successful new act. Will Cindy survive being forced to perform as a tightrope-walking circus bear? Can Ranger Smith avoid being fired by the park commissioner for gross neglect? Will Yogi and Boo Boo be able to track her down before it’s too late? All these questions and more will be answered in this rather delightful, animated adventure.

Is Yogi truly smarter than the average bear?

Stray Observations:

• The snickering dog owned by Chizzling Brothers would later become Muttley in the animated series Wacky Races (1968).
• The movie ends with Ranger Smith being promoted to Chief Ranger, despite the fact that he was identified as Chief Ranger at the beginning of the flick. Government oversight perhaps?
• I love how cartoon animals are considered naked as long as they have at least one article of clothing, whether it be a bow tie or a hat.

Of course, if you’re a girl, you have to wear a skirt.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain the charm and humour that endeared Yogi Bear to television audiences while expanding the narrative into a feature-length format. Hey There, It’s Yogi Bear cleverly blends the humour and slapstick antics that children adored with subtle witticisms that would elicit a chuckle from parents. The film retains the feel of the original “Yogi Bear” television series, maintaining its lighthearted humour and simple storytelling, and bringing it nicely to the big screen. The animation style also remains true to the classic Hanna-Barbera aesthetic of the era and its colourful and simple animation has a charming retro appeal. The character designs retain their original charm, capturing the essence of Yogi and Boo Boo’s personalities while introducing a new array of amusing supporting characters.

Villains who are as dumb as they are funny.

The animation style is typical of the time, showcasing colourful backgrounds and well-designed character models and while the animation may not match the fluidity and detail of today’s CGI, it exudes a nostalgic charm that still holds up for fans of classic cartoons. The voice acting is one of the film’s strongest points, with Daws Butler delivering a charismatic and endearing performance as Yogi Bear. His unique vocal talents bring the witty and lovable bear to life, making him a character that remains memorable even decades after its release. Furthermore, the film boasts a catchy and memorable musical score, with toe-tapping tunes that add to the overall enjoyment. The songs not only heighten the film’s emotional moments but also give it a distinct flavour that adds to its nostalgic appeal.

Kids will also learn about the “Birds and the Bears.”

In conclusion, Hey There, It’s Yogi Bear is a time-honoured animated gem that showcases the endearing personality of its titular character and his enduring appeal. While it may not possess the groundbreaking innovations of contemporary animated films, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hanna-Barbera’s iconic creations. So, gather the family, grab a picnic basket and settle in for a fun-filled adventure with Yogi Bear and his pals.