I wasn't a regular viewer of the 'ABC Afterschool Specials' but I was a cartoon fanatic and loved to watch most of what Hanna-Barbera studios produced for Saturday mornings. Back then, Saturday morning was a time when cartoons RULED and it was a highly anticipated event for many kids at that time. So, as a curious 12-year-old, when I heard that this 'cartoon' was airing as an 'ABC Afterschool Special' that afternoon in October 1972, I made sure I tuned in to watch.
To say, that after over 35 years, this cartoon has made a lasting impression on me would be an understatement. The fact that I even remember the lesson learned and how I felt about it for days afterward is a true testament to the quality of this production. Keep in mind that this isn't your standard cartoon with goofy characters involved in brainless antics or superheroes saving another day. This is a superbly animated feature that presents a story about life, and is so well written that it masterfully draws the viewer into the story. Though, unlike with most cartoons, expect to walk away from this with the astonishment of a lesson learned. After all, THIS is what the Afterschool Specials were all about. With 'The Last of the Curlews', what might seem insensitive to the viewer, in it's own way, touches a nerve as it tells a story about our own insensitivity to the world and our environment. It was because of this amazing production that Hanna-Barbera won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Children's Programming.
In 1991, I had the extreme pleasure to meet Bill Hanna and briefly spoke with him. It was an opportunity that I will remember for the rest of my life. His work represents much about my childhood growing up in the 60's and 70's.
In 1998, I enjoyed a chance meeting with another Hanna-Barbera legend, Iwao Takamoto, who wore several hats at Hanna-Barbera throughout his career. He was Animator, Director and was the character designer of many of Hanna-Barbera's cartoon characters, one of which is Scooby-Doo. Prior to working for Hanna-Barbera, he worked as an animator on many Disney movies including 'Lady and the Tramp', 'Cinderella' and 'Sleeping Beauty'. This was a visit that I hold dear as well and, in a way, completed a circle for me. Throughout Mr. Takamoto's illustrious career, he's probably been asked, "Who is your favorite cartoon character?!!" a zillion times. So, as a huge Hanna-Barbera fan, I wanted to ask him something that might provide a bit more of 'who' Iwao was. I asked, "What has been your proudest moment during your career as an animator?" He looked away, paused for a moment, looked back at me and said with his warm smile, "Winning an Emmy Award for an 'ABC Afterschool Special'... 'The Last of the Curlews'." I can tell you that my heart swelled a bit and my eyes teared when I heard him say that, it actually took me by surprise. Here it was, 26 years later and I'm talking to one of history's animation greats who helped create something that I haven't seen since 1972, yet it's message still ripples through me to this day.
I can't say anything more about this feature other than, it should be mandatory viewing for kids of all ages. It's THAT good! I only hope that Warner Bros. (now owner of the vast H-B library) will make it available on DVD soon so that other generations can learn from it as well.