In animated classics, few works are revered more than the 1957 “What’s Opera, Doc?” This landmark short, directed by the legendary Chuck Jones, features Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd in a parody of German composer, Wilhelm Richard Wagner’s epic “Der Ring des Nibelungen.”

A Wagnerian Marvel

“What’s Opera, Doc?” brilliantly condenses Wagner’s 14-hour opera cycle into a mere seven minutes of animated delight. Jones and his talented writer, Mike Maltese, masterfully captured the grandeur and emotion of Wagner’s work while infusing it with the irreverent humor of Looney Tunes.

Bugs Bunny, in a horned helmet and Brunhilde braids, and Elmer Fudd, with a sword and magic helmet, bring the archetypal opera characters to life against the majestic strains of “Ride of the Valkyries.”

The Making of a Classic

Creating “What’s Opera, Doc?” was a labor of love for Jones and his team. Maurice Noble’s intricate design and the fluid animation from Jones’s skilled animators showcase their extraordinary talent.

Jones fondly recalled the joy of collaborating with Maltese to condense the complex opera into a short that retained all the original’s essential nuances and emotional beats. This mindfulness and deep understanding of the source material and animation set “What’s Opera, Doc?” apart.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

“What’s Opera, Doc?” holds a special place in the hearts of animation professionals, critics, and collectors, being named the #1 animated cartoon in a poll of 1,000 industry experts. It’s boisterous, rhapsodic retelling of Wagner’s epic tale, combined with impeccable comedic timing and visual artistry, has cemented its status as arguably the most famous short cartoon of all time.

The influence of this short film extends far beyond its initial release. In 1992, it was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, which praised it as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

To this day, “What’s Opera, Doc?” continues to be studied and admired for its groundbreaking approach to animation and storytelling.

A Timeless Tale

This animated film remains a timeless piece of animation history that delights and inspires audiences of all ages. Chuck Jones’s visionary direction, along with the stellar contributions of his team, created a masterpiece that transcends its genre.

Whether you’re a fan of classical music, animation, or simply a good laugh, “What’s Opera, Doc?” offers something for everyone. Its legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.