The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town

The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town is a delightful throwback to the American stop-motion television special genre, directed by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr. Released in 1977, the movie features an exceptional voice cast, notably the legendary Fred Astaire, decorated actor Skip Hinnant, and versatile entertainer Bob McFadden, among others. A Rankin/Bass product, the movie employs 'Animagic,' a stop-motion animation style that lends a nostalgic and visually unique quality to the film, making it a standout in the realm of Easter special movies.

In this charming Easter tale, Fred Astaire steps into the character of a warm, grandfatherly mailman, SD Kluger, who serves as the narrator of the story. Resonating his iconic musical charm and sophistication, Astaire's character gifts the audience with songs full of Easter cheer and gentle warmth, setting a perfect tone for this family movie.

The movie showcases a wholesome narrative around the origins of Easter traditions and the story of the Easter Bunny, told in the classic wholesome style of Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr. Artfully employing the narratorial role, Astaire's postman character guides the audience on a joy-filled journey to the charming hamlet of Kidville, a magical town populated entirely by children.

In this heartwarming Humbert fantasy, the major plot corkscrews around Sunny, the baby bunny, voiced by Skip Hinnant. Sunny adopts an optimistic mission to deliver Easter eggs to the gloomy neighboring town of Town, where Easter has never been celebrated, and toys - the central products of Kidville - are prohibited and unwelcomed. As the baby bunny grows, so does his ambition of bringing happiness and the joys of Easter to Town's residents.

Bob McFadden enhances the movie's fun factor through various voice roles such as the weary bear Gadzooks and the ticklish hound, Hallelujah, characters who mirror the unique humor and warmth that make the Rankin/Bass productions so lovable.

The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town masterfully delivers the story of how or why certain Easter traditions originated, such as why the Easter Bunny delivers eggs or Easter treats, why we tell Easter Bunny jokes, or what makes a jelly bean the irresistible candy of Easter, all of which adds to the wonder and charm of the movie.

The narrative also seamlessly weaves in some special messages about the importance of honesty, sharing, and compassion that are sure to touch the hearts of both its younger audience and family members alike. The movie isn't just an entertaining story; it emerges as an essential life lesson instilled with good-natured humor and delightful songs.

In true Rankin/Bass style, the movie has an appealing array of songs. From the cheery "The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town" to the touching "Somebody's Gotta Be First," the musical numbers, composed by Maury Laws and Jules Bass, complements the narrative's rhythm, taking viewers on a rollercoaster of emotions.

Rankin and Bass's tried and tested 'Animagic' production style of stop-motion animation brings a magical dimension to this classic holiday special. The distinctive, doll-like characters come to life in stunning clarity, becoming figures of affection and mirth throughout the course of the movie.

Beyond its magical visuals and captivating storyline, The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town stands out as an emblem of traditional storytelling. The movie employs the timeless charm of a compassionate narrator, a straightforward plot filled with simple joys, and moral lessons, making it a classic Easter watch for all generations.

Despite its release over forty years ago, The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town never loses its charm. It successfully lives up to the legacy of Rankin/Bass productions, blending warmth, humor, beautiful stop-motion animation artistry, sublime retro charm, and delightful songs. It remains a delightful watch, a near-perfect movie to welcome in the joys of Spring, and an ideal tradition for families to relive the magic of Easter year after year.