The masterminds behind the wildly entertaining recent batch of Max’s Looney Tunes Cartoons, led by the visionary director Pete Browngardt, have achieved a phenomenal feat – and it’s a true masterpiece. With the release of The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, they have proven that they can bring the beloved cartoon to the big screen in a way that is both faithful to the original and freshly exciting.

Believe it or not, this film marks the first fully animated theatrical feature in the legendary cartoon’s history, and it delivers a sci-fi adventure comedy that is out of this world. The incredibly talented Eric Bauza takes on the roles of both Daffy Duck and Porky Pig, while the gifted Candi Milo brings to life Petunia Pig, a brilliant young flavor scientist who gets entangled in the mystery of an alien invasion. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Petunia is a character who deserves more screen time and presence in the franchise – her charm and wit are undeniable.

The plot of the movie pays homage to the classic ’50s-style invasion films, such as The Blob and Invasion of the Body Snatchers, but with a distinctly Looney Tunes twist. Daffy and Porky, the lovable but hapless duo, find themselves struggling to make ends meet, jumping from one job to another, only to discover that their latest gig at a chewing gum factory has an unexpected consequence. When an extraterrestrial goo accidentally gets mixed into the gum’s recipe, it sets off a chain reaction that threatens the very existence of the world. As the alien hive mind takes over, Daffy, Porky, and Petunia must band together to save the planet in their own uniquely silly way.

One of the most refreshing aspects of The Day the Earth Blew Up is that it doesn’t rely on the usual cartoon suspects, such as Bugs Bunny or Tweety, to carry the story. Instead, Porky, Daffy, and Petunia take center stage, proving that any of the Looney Tunes characters can shine in their own right. This approach also allows the film to avoid the pitfalls of other franchise efforts, which often rely on celebrity cameos, product placements, or unnecessary CGI enhancements. Thankfully, this movie stays true to the spirit of the original cartoons, with a focus on witty banter, physical comedy, and heartfelt storytelling.

While The Day the Earth Blew Up follows a more traditional narrative arc than the typical Looney Tunes shorts, it still manages to pack in plenty of hilarious gags and homages to the classic cartoon style. One of the standout moments features Farmer Jim, a warm and kindly character who appears in a flashback, showcasing the perfect blend of absurdity and heart. The film’s success lies in its ability to balance these comedic elements with a genuine sense of adventure and excitement, making it a non-stop ride of delightful nonsense.

The Day the Earth Blew Up is a loving tribute to the classic cartoon films that have been missing from our lives. The Looney Tunes team has put their heart and soul into every frame, and it shows. This version of the characters succeeds where other attempts, like The Looney Tunes Show, failed. By staying true to the iconic archetypes of Daffy and Porky, the film brings a fresh sense of excitement and adventure to the franchise. The characters are pushed out of their comfort zones, and their unique personalities shine through as they embark on a mission to save the world.

We hope that Warner Bros. takes note of the success of The Day the Earth Blew Up and considers releasing other shelved projects, like Coyote vs. Acme. This live-action and animation hybrid film has been praised by industry insiders, including Lord and Miller, the masterminds behind Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. It’s a shame that it remains in limbo, as fans are eager to see more of the WB’s beloved cartoon icons on the big screen.

Perhaps the release of The Day the Earth Blew Up will remind audiences of the magic of traditional animation and pave the way for more 2D animated classics in the future. The film’s unique blend of humor, adventure, and heart is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Looney Tunes franchise.

The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie is now playing in theaters.

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