With the vogue for cartoons to be successful (Antz, Toy Story, Nemo etc), it is surprising that Dick Deadeye has largely disappeared without a trace. Based on the drawings of Gerlad Scarfe - which do take some time to get used to if unfamiliar with his style (he also did the opening titles of BBC's 'Yes Minister'), the stroy is simply cobbled together from a selection of Gilber & Sullivan operettas (Mikado, Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore to name only three). The story is reasonably followable (for a cartoon), but there are many wonderful musical moments with updated (even 'Pop') treatments to well known G&S songs, plus a few new ones. 'The Moon & I' sung by Linda Lewis was even a minor hit in 1976, but this didn;t seem to help the film receive greater viewing audiences.
It did not receive a full UK distribution, but did play in selected 'art house' cinemas, then disappeared without a trace. As far as I am aware it has never released on video or DVD, but it would certainly be worthwhile for those who like pleasant comedy and G&S's music.
It did not receive a full UK distribution, but did play in selected 'art house' cinemas, then disappeared without a trace. As far as I am aware it has never released on video or DVD, but it would certainly be worthwhile for those who like pleasant comedy and G&S's music.