I first heard of Rock & Rule from an online friend, and as usual, I became intrigued by such an unusual sounding film. After finally tracking down the film, I can't thank my friend enough for introducing me to Rock & Rule.

The film does admittedly have its flaws, but IMO they just make the film more fun to watch. The animation isn't the greatest, but it suits the film perfectly, and it is groundbreaking for its time (eg. the demon, which was animated by smearing cow brains onto one of the planes of a multiplane camera). Both the main and background characters are interesting and entertaining (particularly Aunt Edith, who is voiced by Catherine O'Hara, as well as the brilliant villain, Mok), and the voice work is done well, particulary that of Don Francks as Mok. The soundtrack is excellent, and again suits the film perfectly, although Debbie Harry's song does seem a bit bland in the solo version.

This may not be a perfect film, but its imperfections make it work, and that in itself makes it feel perfect in itself. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who's into 80's music, or anyone who just wants to see a fun animated film. :)

Ah the 80's. This rock opera features the works of Cheap Trick, Lou Reed, Debbie Harry of Blondie, and Iggy Pop. Have I got your attention yet? Well what if I throw in Earth, Wind & Fire?

The film opens with an explanation that long ago a war left only mutant cats, dogs, and rats as survivors - which explains the characters freakish appearances. We are introduced to Mok, a superrocker, who is trying to open an interdimensional portal. Next we meet Omar and Angel who also have a band and they are trying to make it big. Turns out, Angel's voice is the key to opening the interdimensional portal, so Mok kidnaps her and makes her perform a concert to summon a demon.

The animation is odd in this film. The tone is serious, but all of the characters have big snouts like they are in a Saturday morning cartoon. Also, there is some attempt to make Angel hot, but I don't think most humans fall for rat people, no matter how red their lipstick.

I am not surprised this was not a box office hit, but I am surprised that it only took in $30,379. Apparently the "evils" of rock and roll scared away many parents and their potential rocker kids. I wonder how a gangster rap themed cartoon would do today? Certainly this is an interesting novelty and certainly it is unique, but captivating it is not. Maybe if it featured the works of Weezer (or The Beatles) I would be more hooked. But Weezerless, I score Rock and Rule a C.