Join us in celebrating the 1952 Warner Bros. Looney Tunes classic, ‘Rabbit Seasoning’ directed by the legendary Chuck Jones, and brought to life by the witty words of Michael Maltese. This animated gem stars Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Elmer Fudd.

To mark this special occasion, we’re rolling out the red carpet with an exclusive offer: Purchase any work from our ‘Hunting Trilogy’ art collection throughout September and get ready to add a touch of contemporary charm to your space. Say the magic word ‘DESPICABLE‘ at purchase, and we’ll sprinkle some extra animation magic. This complimentary Contemporary Art Print Poster is a delightful addition to your collection.

From 1951-1953, the ‘Hunting Season’ trilogy (Rabbit Fire, 1951; Rabbit Seasoning, 1952; and Duck! Rabbit, Duck!, 1953) are considered among the best of the classic cartoons. These three animated shorts feature the famous Looney Tunes characters Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Elmer Fudd.

While the formula for these shorts is simple, what makes them classics are the minor variations in how they revolve around these characters’ hilarious escapades as they engage in a comical debate about whether it’s ‘duck season’ or ‘rabbit season.’ The result of all the comedic madness is a trio of witty, entertaining cartoons that set up a winning dynamic of rivalry co-mingled with a friendship between Bugs and Daffy that remains a vital ingredient of their animated relationship to this day.

In “Rabbit Seasoning,” the story is centered around a discussion between Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck (who’s simultaneously dethpicable and lovable), with Elmer Fudd in pursuit. Bugs and Daffy engage in a disagreement (genius wordplay) over whether it’s “duck season” or “rabbit season,” trying to convince Elmer Fudd to hunt the other character. Bugs keeps switching the signs to confuse Elmer, and Daffy ends up getting shot repeatedly while arguing his point. The cartoon is known for its series of rapid-fire verbal and visual gags; a hallmark of Jones’ directing style.

Daffy: Let’s run through that again./Bugs: Okay. Would you like to shoot me now or wait ’til you get home?/ Daffy: Shoot him now, shoot him now./ Bugs: You keep outta this, he doesn’t have to shoot you now./ Daffy: Ha! That’s it! Hold it right there! [turns to audience] Pronoun trouble. [turns back to Bugs] It’s not, ‘He doesn’t have to shoot you now.’ It’s, ‘He doesn’t have to shoot me now.’ Well, I say he does have to shoot me now! [turns to Elmer] So shoot me now!

Despite the repetitive concept, the artful dialogue, slapstick comedy, and Chuck Jones’ masterful direction keep each cartoon fresh and entertaining. The ‘Hunting Trilogy’ cartoons are celebrated examples of the golden age of animation and have left a lasting impact on popular culture.

Rabbit Seasoning is the only one of the “Hunting Trilogy” to have been voted on the list of the 50 Greatest Cartoons–it ranks at number thirty (it should also be noted that Rabbit Fire was given an honorable mention on the list).

This cartoon serves as a confirmation of the enduring charm of Looney Tunes and the skillful storytelling by Chuck Jones that has enhanced the affection for these characters and their adventures throughout the history of animation.

Want to add the “Hunting Trilogy” to your art collection? Check it out HERE. You can also contact your consultant or email [email protected] for more information.