See more TV reviews

Hong Kong Phooey (Boomerang)

common sense media says

70s 'toon dog fights mild crime with inept glory.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that there's not too much to worry about in this classic '70s cartoon. There aren't a whole lot of lessons to learn, and female characters are stereotyped in ways typical for the original era (and rarely appear in any significant or powerful roles), but the animated violence is mild and generally goofy. Nostalgic parents can enjoy this one with their kids.

Positive messages: Hong Kong Phooey never improves, realizes that he's incompetent, or credits his cat buddy for his work -- but good always wins out, and there's no real harm here. Female characters are stereotyped in ways typical to the '70s and don't have very proactive roles.
Violence & scariness: Hong Kong Phooey fights crime with a remarkably low level of violence, other than the characters spinning around in a swirl of fisticuffs.
Sexy stuff: Occasional lacivious views of Rosemary's legs.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Hong Kong Phooey

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how the character of Hong Kong Phooey compares to more recent superheroes. He may be silly and oblivious, but he's happy to be a superhero. Is the same true of today's caped-and-masked heroes? What's changed about the way we see superheroes since the days when Phooey was created? Why do you think that is?

What's the story?

What's the story?
HONG KONG PHOOEY is the alter ego of Penrod Pooch (voiced by Scatman Crothers), the janitor at the police station manned by Sergeant Flint (Joe E. Ross) and telephone operator Rosemary (Kathy Gori). When a crime is committed (a jewel heist, a kidnapping), "Penry" leaps into his file cabinet to change into the famous Hong Kong Phooey, revered throughout the city. In his Phooey mobile, the kung fu-fighting superhero sets out to save the day -- which generally amounts to bumbling and leaving mayhem in his wake while his loyal cat sidekick, Spot (Don Messick), does the real work. Invariably, Phooey awakes from whatever damage the villains have done to him and is stunned to see that he's triumphed after all.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
This goofy cartoon is one of Hanna-Barbera's more original efforts. Phooey's oblivion and Spot's all-knowing superiority will make kids giggle and give them a sense that they, too, could have hidden powers that the grown-ups don't see. The plots are simple, although some grasp of why a "bad guy" would want to steal jewels or counterfeit money is required. There are no high-speed chases, no one is ever hurt, and nothing is ever scary, making Hong Kong Phooey fun for pretty much any kid who's interested.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-Y
Network: Boomerang
Cast: Joe E. Ross, Kathy Gori, Scatman Crothers
Genre: Kids' Animation
Where to watch: Boomerang
This review was written by KJ Dell Antonia
 
 

Review It

 

Review Hong Kong Phooey

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see Hong Kong Phooey?

Won't miss it
We'll try
Change it

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more TV
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines