Scruffy (1980)

Best movie of this year hands down!

Surprisingly incoherent and boring

I don't have all the words right now but this film is a work of art.

The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.

There were many memorable short films during the run of ABC's "Weekend Special", which started in the 1970's, but this particular offering from Ruby Spears Enterprises in 1980 was(and still is) probably one of the most remembered, primarily for its tragic content that wasn't usually found in many children's cartoons back then, except of course in feature films like "Bambi" or "The Fox and the Hound". "Scruffy" was in fact a more depressing children's story in literary form than the finished product that came onto TV screens and home video. The plot surrounds a stray puppy searching for a home. It's a pretty simple premise granted. The problem in this case, for television anyway, seemed to be about dealing with the horrible situations given in the book and yet make it marketable for a child. Many scenes, joyfully reminiscent of classic Saturday Morning TV material, obviously were put in for a lighter viewing. Even with this, the cartoon is still a dark and actually even upsetting account of the lives of unwanted animals. In truth, you would have to be made of stone not to be touched by this, which some people consider a "guilt trip" of sorts. The actors were mostly TV celebs you have seen or heard of at least one time or another. Hans Conried, remembered mostly for his wonderful roles as "Captain Hook" from Peter Pan and "Snidely Whiplash" from the Bullwinkle show brings in a nice performance as street performer Joseph Tibbles. Nancy McKeon of "The Division" really keeps the drama in motion as orphaned Scruffy. "Rugrats" and "Transformers" favorite Michael Bell was a good choice for the tough but kind hearted Butch. June Foray, of course is wonderful(and if you don't know who she is you have not been watching enough cartoons) as well as cartoon vets Janet Waldo and Frank Welker. Should you watch this? If you are too soft hearted, I would keep my distance. For those who are interested, keep the tissues handy. It is practically the "Beaches" or "Terms of Endearment" of Saturday morning kid specials.

This is absolutely my favorite cartoon ever made. It pains me,however, that not many people know about it. It is a heartfelt story of a stray puppy and the trials and tribulations that Scruffy must face. It is a combination of Bambi and Lady and the Tramp. It is unique in it's own right because of the interesting story line and good writing. I have loved it since I was old enough to remember and I am now 22. It is one that should be considered a classic in the cartoon world but is not. I recommend it to anyone who loves cartoons and especially the ones about animals. I just wish that they would put it on DVD because my VHS copy is so worn down!

This is the most poignant,heart wrenching cartoon that I have ever seen.My wife has been telling me for years how moving this cartoon is but it was only when I saw it that I realised what she meant. From the moment Scruffy's mother was abandoned by her owners ,at the start of the film,you realise that you are about to see a very special movie but you are unprepared for how special this cartoon really is. Throughout the first quarter of an hour of "Scruffy" you should be trying to hold back the tears but when Scruffy loses her mother ,if you have any heart,then the floodgates should open.From this point in the movie i was moved to tears and don't think i have ever been so moved by a cartoon. Scruffy finds many friends along the way, including an old hobo,and from adventure to adventure she certainly finds a friend in the viewer. You know this cartoon probably has a happy ending but until the poignant finally you are not quite sure. In conclusion;The animation may be simple,the story may be easy to follow but this little nugget of rare gold teaches about empathy towards others,friendship and how to treat our fellow travellers on the journey of life. A classic cartoon with the perfect score 10/10

One of the cutest films ever. An adorable stray puppy finds friends & foes on the streets. The animation is simple, yet charming. There are several scenes that leave me in tears but these are well mixed in with humour, loyalty, friendship, bravery & trust. Everyone should see it. My rating 8/10