'The Inspector' "That's No Lady That's Notre Dame" (1966)
Opening thoughts: The Inspector theatrical series, consisting of thirty four cartoons made between 1965 and 1969, is one of DePatie-Freleng Enterprises' best series. Not every cartoon in it worked successfully but the series hit more than it missed and the best are nearly as good as the best of Pink Panther. One of the best and funniest The Inspector cartoons is 'That's No Lady That's Notre Dame'.
Bad things: Occasional corny moments.
Good things: Simple, though never simplistic, animation, especially the deep, rich colours. Continue to love the jazzy slinkiness of the music and the infectious theme tune that is almost as iconic as that for the Pink Panther. Pat Harrington Jr does a wonderful job voicing two characters and giving individuality and contrast to both and each other.
There is slapstick physical comedy, which is violent but not in a sadistic way, it is never vulgar, sharply timed, well timed and most importantly of all it's funny. Even better is the verbal humour, whether the more ironic moments, the mumblings or The Inspector's frustrations with Deux Deux, appreciated the word-play being subtle yet witty. Both the Inspector and Deux Deux are great characters and such an entertaining and endearing chemistry.
The Inspector's bumbling brings a great deal of amusement in the more slapstick-driven moments and did like that there was also a subtle irony in much of the comedy. This is beautifully and often hilariously contrasted with that of the more laid back and amusingly confused Deux Deux, one of the few characters in existence to make mumblings funny and not irritating or being over-whiny when complaining. Their interplay is a delight. The commissioner is a lot of fun as well. The story is one of the least formulaic ones and not as ridiculous as it sounds, it also has a nice energy and charm.
Concluding thoughts: Summarising, great The Inspector cartoon and one of the series' best.
9/10.