Animal Magic (TV Series 1962–1984) Poster

(1962–1984)

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10/10
Simply magic
ianws7 September 2012
Watched this from about the age of 4 in 1969 on a small black and white TV set. One of the first shows I can remember from my early childhood. That, of course puts a nostalgic spin on matters but no matter. It was still, I believe, almost perfect for its age and target audience. Johnny Morris was a natural with animals and as a presenter. His and latter assistant; Terry Nutkins love of animals was clear and infectious.

Although his anthropomorphic techniques were later criticised and he was thought of as old hat and out of date, I believe those 1980s views to be the ones that, unlike the show, will not stand the test of time.

Sadly, Terry Nutkins also passed away today and prompted this review. Another part of childhood disappears.
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9/10
He Certainly Did
screenman13 April 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Following upon the success of his voice-over from 'Tales Of The Riverbank', Johnnie Morris seemed to get typecast as a latter-day Doctor Doolittle.

For a whole generation he gave voice to the other species in a gentle, humane and hilarious way. Some were presented as proud and arrogant, others as shy and nervous. He seemed to encapsulate a character in just one line. Many an accomplished Oscar-winner must have secretly envied his ability.

The naturalist Desmond Morris (a relative?) denounced his anthropomorphic interpretations, and clearly - despite his huge and enduring popularity, others evidently shared this view, or at least thought they knew better. Eventually, he was axed by a less gentle, more cynical generation of Thatcherite production managers. And television became that little bit poorer for his passing. As indeed it will when David Attenborough finally succumbs.

The only other contributor has summed the case up more succinctly than I, but such a wonderful program and its entertainer could hardly be allowed just a single mourner.

Johhnie Morris, the man who talked to and for a generation of animals. An irreplaceable treasure.
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