The Van Beuren Tom and Jerry (as said already not the famous cat and mouse, this is a human duo that lasted for just under 30 cartoons, actually 26 and not 29 like initially thought, between 1931 and 1933) series was interesting but uneven and not easy to rate as an overall whole. At the series' best, the cartoons were good, very good in a few cases. At its worst, they were really bad.
Generally 'Doughnuts' is one of their better efforts. None of it is hilarious, humour-wise while true to their absurdist style (though other cartoons of theirs have done this aspect more inventively) it's pretty moderate. The story is paper thin slight and basically music and gag interludes that make the cartoon structurally feel like extended filler. Even in the best cartoons, the animation tended to be not very good to put it lightly. This is true for 'Doughnuts'. Describing the static movement, simplistic detail and erratic designs as primitive is being kind.
However, as to be expected, the music is outstanding. Even in the worst Tom and Jerry cartoons it was the best asset. It is so beautifully and cleverly orchestrated and full of energy, doing so well with enhancing the action.
'Doughnuts' as said is moderate fun with some reasonably well-timed gags, lively pacing and a joyously cheerful mood that is hard to resist. Tom and Jerry are not the most compelling of lead characters but they are not as bland as they tended to be.
Overall, not great but one of the worth watching Tom and Jerry cartoons. 7/10 Bethany Cox