Heathcliff and Marmaduke (Boomerang)

HEATHCLIFF AND MARMADUKE ran for only a single season on ABC, although Heathcliff appeared with other characters -- including Dingbat and the Catillac Cats -- in other cartoons both before and after this iteration. Here, the Garfield-esque orange tabby defends himself easily from neighborhood bully Spike using his greater strength and craftiness. Meanwhile, Marmaduke's predicaments are the result of a combination of good intentions, great size, and native clumsiness (and very little guile).

The one thing that makes this show different -- and even a little refreshing -- is that none of the characters are actually out to eat or deceive one another. It's impossible to find any real malice even in Spike, who doesn't want to hurt Heathcliff, but rather prove himself the stronger to his friends. Kids might even relate to the situation and envy Heathcliff his easy solution. That said, the plots aren't original, and the animation is nothing special. Overall, Heathcliff and Marmaduke is fine, if not particularly inspiring, viewing.

TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Boomerang
Cast: Frank Welker, Mel Blanc, Paul Winchell
Genre: Kids' Animation
Where to watch: Boomerang