By Michael Lyons
One drawing, just a few words, tremendous heart, life’s simple pleasures. With that, the comic strip “The Family Circus” has found its way into everyone’s hearts since first appearing in daily newspapers in 1960.
Cartoonist Bil Keane took the simple, everyday, ‘round the house or neighborhood adventures of parents Bil and Thelma (not often referred to by name) and their children Billy, Dolly, Jeffy and PJ as the centerpiece for some very universal, warm-hearted humor.
On the heels of the success of The Peanuts Holiday specials, the ‘70’s saw a number a number of comic strip characters make the leap from the newsprint page to the TV screen and “The Family Circus” was no different.
Their first animated special, “A Special Valentine with The Family Circus,” debuted on February 10, 1978 on NBC and turns 40 this year. With Valentine’s Day approaching next week and this particular special now eclipsed by more popular characters and holidays, this anniversary seems the perfect time to re-visit this family.
The opening of the special actual pays homage to the fact that “Family Circus” comes from newspapers, by opening on the comic pages, all shown in black and white, except for “The Family Circus” color panel. Zooming in on this color panel, “A Special Valentine” begins to tell its story that’s as simple and cozy as the comic strip itself.
In it, all the kids are creating valentines to give to their parents, when toddler PJ reveals his to be no more than scribbles, his brothers and sister laugh, hurting PJ’s feelings. When the older siblings feel bad, they attempt to create a valentine on PJ’s behalf that will be truly special. However, their dog Barfy gets involved with disastrous results. But never fear, when the kids all present their parents with valentines, there is a happy ending that truly speaks to what constitutes a gift that comes from the heart.
The threadbare plot of the special reflects the day-to-day focuses of “The Family Circus” comic strip and the characters look at home in the animated (albeit limited) world. With its slower pace and story, the special may not thrill everyone, but fans of the comic strip and students of television animation will appreciate this 30 minute flashback to a time when prime time animation truly was special.
And, while it may not have the re-watchability of Charlie Brown or Garfield (one viewing may satisfy your curiosity), there’s no denying that “A Special Valentine with The Family Circus” is, indeed, all heart.
Sources: Wikipedia
Nice warm rememberance
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