Jasper And The Watermelons (1942) - Madcap Models Theatrical Cartoon Series

The best Puppetoon ever!

I know many of you haven't seen it, since it has not been re-released (perhaps because of racism concerns), but this is hands-down the best of George Pal's work.

While his European films had better art direction and more style than his American work, this cartoon is simply amazing. Jasper is taken to Watermelonland by the Scarecrow, where the hills and trees are all watermelons (gorgeous sets). Of course he makes the mistake of eating one, and here starts an eerily dark and frightening sequence ("Gonna be trouble in Watermelonland today..."). This builds to an intense climax, ending with a fast-paced chase scene.

Throughout, the design, direction, pacing and photography are all top-notch. Better than any other Jasper cartoon - truly a classic. I don't feel it is any more racist than any of the other Jaspers, so I hope it is re-released again soon.