The last thing I expected was for a racial stereotype in an Inspector Willoughby shorts, yet here we are. I'll just get it out of this out of the way, the stereotypes and antagonist in this film aren't funny and are hard to watch. I get that at the time, China was seen as a touchy subject in political matters, but this doesn't negate the obvious offensive stereotypes here. But, ignoring the stereotypes, how's the cartoon proper. Well, really not that great. The backgrounds fit well with the mysterious atmosphere, but the ones inside the apartment as very drab and not at all appealing. When I think of Chinese culture, I think of bright colors, not like green walls. It fits the setting I guess. The antagonist is a formidable foe, with him being slightly smart that other foes Willoughby has faced off against. The conflict does have some energy and spice to it, especially towards the end. Also, the mirror gag was a smart idea, not funny but very smart. However, the ending feels a little rushed and sort of comes out of nowhere. I did like the ending though, since it features a random WTF moment with Woody just coming out of the chicken like in the movie Alien (1979). Overall, I've seen worse racially incentive cartoons, but that doesn't help this one's case. I'd say recommend passing this one. A shame, since this cartoon could've instead been used to make another short featuring Vampira or Yeggs Benedict. Instead, we got this mediocre effort. Great going Paul J. Smith. π
