Chilly Willy's best cartoons were perfect examples of how a potentially one-joke character and concept could end up actually being a perfect mix of the cute and the funny with a lot of colour and good comic timing to go with it.
'Operation Cold Feet' may not be one of the best Chilly Willy cartoons, anything directed by Tex Avery (like his two contributions to the Chilly Willy cartoon series) is incredibly hard to beat, but it is still very nicely executed and well above average if lacking the extra something to be great. Story-wise, it does follow a formula and sometimes with predictable results, there are funnier Chilly Willy cartoons admittedly and the Admiral was a slightly bland character (lacking the comic timing and the strong personalities of the other three characters).
The animation is not always refined, true of most Chilly Willy cartoons though Avery's cartoons had more visual imagination in typical Avery style, though both Chilly and Smedley are drawn well, but there are some lovely colours that have real atmosphere and simple but handsomely rendered backgrounds. The music is full of lively bounce and character, with luscious orchestration. It not only adds to the action and visuals but enhances them too.
Although, as said, there are funnier gags in other efforts of Chilly Willy, the gags are still very amusing and timed very competently. The pursuits do avoid being too repetitive, a danger, and the chemistry between the characters here is hugely enjoyable.
Chilly is adorable here as always and has good comic timing and the bear has a strong personality and even better comic timing. Best of all is Smedley, Smedley has always been the funnier and more interesting character and that is true here. They are great foils to each other, with a lot of chaotic fun and tension between them.
Before one forgets, Daws Butler, with a voice reminiscent of Huckleberry Hound, voices Smedley marvellously.
All in all, good and easy to like if not exactly exceptional. 7/10 Bethany Cox
