'Bosko the Talk-Ink Kid' is fascinating from a historical stand-point, being Bosko's debuting cartoon. It is also interesting as an example of 20s animation before more interesting characters and more creative and funnier cartoons were made.
It is not a great cartoon, nor is it an awful one. This said, it is easy to see why 'Bosko the Talk-Ink Kid' has divided viewers here. The story isn't exactly new and actually is so thin on the ground that one can be forgiven for mistaking the cartoon as plot-less. It does have its slow spots too, and Bosko is not too endearing a character yet, a stereotype that is not for all tastes with a voice that can grate and the Jewish imitation is questionable at best.
However, the animation is not bad at all, not exactly refined but fluid and crisp enough with some nice detail. The music is suitably bubbly and lush, though like with some Bosko cartoons the sound quality lacks resonance and sounds static in places.
Loved the involvement of Rudolf Ising, and his charming and amusing interplay with Bosko is one of 'Bosko the Talk-Ink Kid's' selling points. While not perfect the lip-synchronisation is remarkably impressive with some very natural expressions from Bosko, and the dialogue is surprisingly sophisticated in places. Some of 'Bosko the Talk-Ink Kid' is amusing while never being hilarious.
In conclusion, interesting though not great Bosko debut that is worth seeing for historical significance. 6/10 Bethany Cox
