Bob Clampett had a uniquely wild and imaginative style, and most of his cartoons range from good to classic, with the odd misfire like 'The Hep Cat'.
'Goofy Groceries' is good fun and definitely well worth watching for any fans of Clampett or animation in general, but it is not a classic and could have been better certainly. Pacing is a little uneven, with the second half having more of the trademark Clampett wild energy, the first half is gorgeously animated and the gags are very good but somewhat sedate set-up.
The climax veers on being too silly, and agreed too much of a Deux Ex Machina. Also really didn't care for the closing gag, which was out of date and insensitive, not really belonging with the rest of the cartoon.
However, as aforementioned, 'Goofy Groceries' does have some gorgeous animation, with vibrantly rich colours, drawing that is both smooth and inventive and superbly meticulous detail. The music is similarly amazing, the energy is astounding and the orchestration beautiful and lively with clever use of instruments and such. It not only fits so well, it elevates the material to a higher level.
As for the gags, they are very funny and well-timed, especially the sardines and the tomato can-can dance. The caricatures, like the ones for Jack Benny and Leopold Stokowski, are similarly inspired. The King Kong-like character is good enough if not as memorable as other assets of the cartoon. 'Goofy Groceries' may be light on plot, but the fun factor is high. Mel Blanc's voice work cannot be faulted.
In conclusion, good fun if not a Clampett classic. 7/10 Bethany Cox
