Chuck Jones Enterprises
Starring: Mel Blanc, Les Tremayne, June Foray
Directed by: Chuck Jones
Synopsis: The first of several animated television specials based on the book by George Selfen. Chester C. Cricket (voiced by Les Tremayne) finds himself transported from a Connecticut field in a picnic basket to the bustling New York Times Square subway station where he is found by a boy working a news stand.
Cartoon Cat: Chester is quickly befriended by Tucker Mouse (voiced by Mel Blanc) who starts up a conversation. As they are talking Chester is suddenly startled by the appearance of an orange and white cat sitting behind Tucker.
Chester shouts out a warning and hides. Tucker looks around, wondering what Chester is warning him about. He then realizes Chester thinks the cat is going to hurt him and quickly explains they are friends.
Tucker introduces Chester to Harry the cat (also voiced by Les Tremayne) and explains they are best friends. Harry goes on to explain how city cats and mice are more amenable than their country cousins.
Chester is adopted by a boy who works in his family’s news stand and they all make Chester feel welcome. Tucker and Harry usually stay in a drainpipe nearby but sneak into the news stand at night to hang with Chester.
One night they throw a party for Chester and Tucker turns on a radio. Harry starts to sing along to the song When I’m Calling You. They are shocked when Chester can play that song, and any other song her hears, perfectly.
The party ends abruptly when a trash can catches on fire. Harry desperately tries to put it out.
The news stand is not doing well financially but Chester’s music may save the day. This is a very sweet special and certainly a vivid memory for those of us who grew up in this era.
Final Mewsings: Cats have always considered themselves to be musical.
Relevant Links:
