For over six decades, the simple, flexible green figure known as Gumby has captured the imaginations of children and adults alike. Born from the creative mind of Art Clokey in the 1950s, this stop-motion claymation icon represents a unique chapter in animation history. Today, the character's legacy is beautifully preserved in collections like The Gumby Show: The Complete '50s Series (With Bendable Gumby Toy). This comprehensive set offers more than just episodes; it's a tangible piece of nostalgia, blending restored classic cartoons with a physical memento of the beloved character. In this review, we'll delve into what makes this collector's edition a standout purchase for animation enthusiasts and toy collectors.
The heart of this collection is, of course, the complete run of the original 1950s episodes. For fans of 1950s animation, this is a treasure trove. The visual style is unmistakably of its era—charming, handmade, and full of a whimsical creativity that feels both quaint and timeless. Unlike modern CGI, the stop-motion technique gives each movement a tangible, almost magical quality. Watching Gumby and his horse friend Pokey navigate their clay world of imaginative adventures is a soothing, nostalgic experience. The restoration work on these episodes is commendable, bringing clarity to the picture and richness to the colors while preserving the authentic film grain and texture that purists cherish.
Beyond the digital content, the inclusion of the bendable Gumby toy is a masterstroke. This isn't just a cheap promotional item; it's a faithful recreation of the classic bendable figures that have been popular for generations. The toy's flexibility is its defining feature, allowing you to pose Gumby in countless hilarious and iconic stances, just like in the show. For collectors, this transforms the set from a mere DVD collection into a true collector's edition. It bridges the gap between the animated character and physical play, making it an excellent item for display on a shelf dedicated to vintage TV memorabilia.
Who is this set for? Primarily, it's a dream come true for the dedicated fan. If you grew up with The Gumby Show in reruns or have a fondness for animation history, this is an essential addition to your library. It's also a fantastic gift for introducing a new generation to the charms of pre-digital animation. Parents looking for classic cartoons with a gentle, creative spirit will find a friend in Gumby. Furthermore, toy collectors will appreciate the quality of the included bendable figure, which stands as a nice example of character merchandise from a bygone era.
When considering the value proposition, this complete series set delivers on multiple fronts. You receive the entirety of the foundational series that started it all, presented in the best quality possible. You get a high-quality, poseable toy that enhances the collectible nature of the product. And you acquire a piece of cultural history. Compared to purchasing episodes piecemeal or finding inferior public domain copies, this official collection is the definitive way to own and enjoy the original Gumby adventures.
In conclusion, The Gumby Show: The Complete '50s Series (With Bendable Gumby Toy) is more than a DVD box set. It's a lovingly curated celebration of an animation legend. It successfully caters to the nostalgia of longtime fans while serving as a perfect gateway for newcomers to discover the unique world of claymation. The combination of beautifully restored classic cartoons and a delightful, poseable toy makes this a highly recommended purchase for anyone with an appreciation for the history of television and timeless, character-driven storytelling. It solidifies Gumby's status not just as a flexible green figure, but as an enduring icon of creative imagination.
