Who Framed Roger Rabbit (Special Edition) [1988]

Amazon.co.uk Review

This zany, eye-popping, knee-slapping landmark in combining animation with live-action ingeniously makes that uneasy combination itself (and the history of Hollywood) its subject. Who Framed Roger Rabbit is based on classic Los Angeles private-eye movies (and, specifically, Chinatown), with detective Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins) investigating a case involving adultery, blackmail, murder, and a fiendish plot to replace LA's once-famous Red Car public transportation system with the automobiles and freeways that would later make it the nation's smog capital. Of course, his sleuthing takes him back to the place he dreads: Toontown, the ghetto for cartoons that abuts Hollywood and that was the site of a tragic incident in Eddie's past. In addition to intermingling cartoon characters with live actors and locations, Roger Rabbit also brings together the greatest array of cartoon stars in the history of motion pictures, from a variety of studios (Disney, Warner Bros, MGM, Fleischer, Universal, and elsewhere): Betty Boop, Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse, Woody Woodpecker, Droopy Dog, and more! And, of course, there's Maroon Cartoon's greatest star, Roger Rabbit (voice by Charles Fleischer), who suspects his ultra-curvaceous wife, Jessica Rabbit (voice by Kathleen Turner: "I'm not bad; I'm just drawn that way"), of infidelity. Directed by Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future, Forrest Gump, Contact), not since the early Looney Tunes' "You Oughtta Be in Pictures" has there been anything like Roger Rabbit. --Jim Emerson

Amazon.co.uk Review

The words unique and groundbreaking are often bandied around in cinema, but on its original release in 1988, Who Framed Roger Rabbit was a genuine landmark in filmmaking. It remains a movie that has lost none of its impact. While many special effects in the cinema have a tendency to date, what is most noticeable here is how vibrant and fresh the combination of real actors and animation still appears. Created long before the days of CGI and other computer-enhanced aids, the hand-drawn characters have a real frisson and life to them that stems from their cartoon heritage (Jessica Rabbit must still rank as one of the all time great screen sex symbols). The human performances are also superb, from Hoskins' downtrodden PI to Christopher Lloyd's insane villain. Those experiencing this film for the first time will find as much to enjoy here as those who saw it years ago.

On the DVD: Who Framed Roger Rabbit on disc focuses both on the film's fun element and its background. A collection of Roger shorts is included, along with a deleted scene and a clever interactive game. The documentary charting the history of the film is a little brief and presented in an annoyingly crazy style, yet is full of fascinating snippets, particularly the pre-animation footage and the secrets of the special effects team. It is slightly disappointing that there is so little input from any of the movie's key figures, though. Technically, the film's original print and soundtrack has been given a digital overhaul, allowing Spielberg and Zemeckis' astounding vision to burst into life on the small screen. But in the end this impressive package could have delivered even more. --Phil Udell

Customer Reviews:

roger rabbit dvd.......2008-01-10

i really enjoy this dvd it is great for people who remember the film and it is very good for the children A++++++++++++++++++++++++

Turning into a real classic.......2006-12-09

I watched the film not long after if first came out, and I have to say I still feel the same way about it - excellent effects, great humour, and a fab soundtrack.
Its a very special film in that the art work of the cartoons blends in seamlessly with the acting of real people, and films just aren't made like this anymore. The effects still look great, and add to the character because they are indeed, real cartons.
The title of the film perfectly suits the films plot (who would have guessed eh?..) Basically, Roger Rabbit has been framed for a crime and its up to Bob Hoskins to help the eccentric rabbit deem himself innocent, as Hoskins discovers a Cartoon land...
Cut long story short - fab family film, not to be missed!

Brilliant - I had to have it !!.......2006-06-16

Well..Where do I begin ? Who Framed Roger Rabbit is an all time classic! It's brilliant! I used to watch it when I was about 4-5, all the time. I'm now 15 but I had to have this film because it's a cheeky, funny, classic film to watch.

I would definatly recommend it to anyone who loves a classic movie !

Definatly 5/5 !!
Ryan xo

Just Wonderful.......2005-11-14

Brilliant film and at an amazing price. My children (ages 8,6 and 3) absolutely adore this film. Bob Hoskins is amazing and the cartoons just look so real!

There's lots in this film for adults to see- over and over again.

One word of warning my children had previously only seen this film on video recorded from T.V. and that had had 2 or three bits cut out. Beware the 'dipping of the shoe' is in this version and they might get a bit upset.

my favourite film ever.......2005-05-11

For as long as i can remember 'who framed rodger rabbit' has been my favourite film! one of the first films i can remember driving my family crazy watching over and over. Although it is an odd mix between animation and comedy it has a hilarious plot and so much going on that all the family can enjoy! really great film.

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